How to Recognize Opener Issues

Modern garage door openers are built to last. They have durable components. Many feature an automatic shut-off function designed to prevent the parts from damage if something goes wrong. Despite all this, the risk might be minimalized but can never really come down to zero. You should be able to tell what is going on in order to take the most effective measures for dealing with the issue at hand. Here is some important practical advice to help you with this.

Is It the Hardware, the Motor or the Electronics?

Usually, it all begins with pushing the button of the remote control to open the door. If the clicker does not work, the first step is to replace the batteries. If this does not help either, you need to start the system with the outdoor keypad or with the wall-mounted button. If the opener works, then the issue is with the remote and it has to be fixed or replaced.

When the motor doesn't start, no matter which control you use, there are three possible causes. There may be something wrong with the wiring. In this case, there is no power reaching the unit. Alternatively, the circuit board may have failed. It has to be replaced for the operation of the system to be restored. The third option is for the motor itself to have failed. Sometimes, motor repair is an option, but usually the component has to be replaced with another one.

What if the motor works, but the door does not move? In this case, there must be something wrong with the hardware: the garage door rail or trolley. In most cases, the trolley is broken and has to be replaced. In rare cases, the issue is with the chain, belt or rod which is set inside the rail.

When the motor runs, but this is accompanied by strange loud noises and the door stays in place, this is usually due to broken moving gear. This is the plastic component driven by the motor. It allows for the spinning of the sprocket and consequently for the running of the drive chain or belt. You must stop the opener and get the broken gear replaces as soon as possible.

There are also rare and very puzzling problems that you should be aware of. One of them is to have the overhead door open by itself. This is typically not caused by signal interference, but by a malfunctioning of the transmitter or receiver. The faulty component has to be identified and fixed or replaced.

If you notice any problem with the electric operator, you should stop using it immediately. Shut it off and operate the door manually if required. Just remember to pull the emergency release cord beforehand. Call us if you need any repairs!