Top 10 Common Garage Door Problems and How to Fix Them

At Dependable Door Systems, Inc., we understand how frustrating it can be when your garage door refuses to cooperate. Not only is it inconvenient, it also compromises your security. Our experts have compiled a list of the top 10 most common issues that homeowners encounter with their garage doors, along with easy-to-follow solutions for the ultimate peace of mind. So, let’s dive right in and get your garage door back in top form!

  1. The Door Won’t Open or Close Completely

This could be due to sensor misalignment, obstruction in the door path, or a problem with the close-limit switch. A similar issue is your garage door reversing before touching the floor. To resolve this, check the sensors and make sure they are aligned properly. Also, clear any debris or objects that may be blocking the door's path. If the close-limit switch is malfunctioning, it may need to be adjusted or replaced.

  1. Unresponsive Remote or Wall Switch

his often occurs when the door opener's motor unit has been unplugged or if the circuit breaker, fuse, or GFCI controlling the door opener circuit has tripped or burnt out. Check and reset any tripped breakers or replace burnt out fuses. If the problem persists, try reprogramming your remote or wall switch.

  1. Noisy Operation

Loud grinding or scraping noises during operation can be caused by loose hardware, worn rollers, or the need for regular lubrication. Start by tightening any loose bolts or screws. If that doesn't solve the problem, inspect the rollers for wear and contact a professional to seamlessly replace them if necessary. Regular lubrication of moving parts can also help reduce noise levels.

  1. Door Closes too Quickly

Sudden dropping of the door indicates a problem with the springs or cables. The most likely culprit is a broken spring, which can cause serious injury if you attempt to fix it yourself. It's best to call in a professional garage door technician for this issue.

  1. Door Opens then Immediately Closes

This can occur due to limit settings which control how far the door should open or close. Simply check the limit settings and adjust accordingly.

  1. Door Rises or Falls Unevenly

This is often due to worn springs or an issue with the pulley system. To fix this problem, start by checking the tension of the springs and adjusting them if necessary. If that doesn't solve the issue, you may need to replace your springs or have a professional take a look at the pulley system.

  1. Visible Sagging

Sagging sections can be the result of lack of maintenance, especially if the door is an older model. The best way to fix this issue is by tightening the bolts and screws on the brackets that hold the door in place. Additionally, check if any rollers are worn out or damaged and replace them if necessary.

  1. Power Outages

This may cause issues with the door's opening and closing mechanism. If you encounter this problem, try disconnecting the door from the power supply and operating it manually by pulling the emergency cord.

  1. Door Sticks During Operation

This can be due to a lack of lubrication, dirty tracks, or misaligned tracks. To fix this problem, start by applying a lubricant to the tracks and hinges. Clean any debris or dirt that may be causing the door to stick. If the issue persists, check if the tracks are aligned properly and adjust them if necessary.

  1. Garage Door Opener Runs for a Few Seconds then Turns Off

This often happens when the garage door is locked or the rollers have frozen in very cold weather. Unlock the garage door and try again. If it's still not working, check for any obstructions on the tracks or broken springs. If you're experiencing extremely cold weather, consider investing in a garage door insulation kit to prevent this issue from happening.

While there are several issues with garage doors that homeowners can address independently, it's often best to consult a professional for both minor and major problems. At Dependable Door Systems, Inc. our skilled technicians have the necessary experience and tools to quickly diagnose and resolve any garage door problem-sparing you the inconvenience and potential risks of tackling the issue on your own.

We're committed to providing top-tier service and ensuring your garage door functions smoothly and reliably. So, if you're frustrated with a stubborn garage door, don't hesitate to give us a call.

Call our team today at (801) 849-9030 to schedule a service today!