Are you having a problem with your garage door operation? Is your garage door not working, or is it having an off-again on-again problem? If so, there are many things that could be the cause. Knowing the potential sources of your garage door’s issues can help you keep your garage door in good working condition. In this article, we’ll discuss five of the most common reasons that garage doors stop working, and what can be done about it.

1. The Automatic Garage Door Opener Battery is Dead

First thing’s first: check to be sure that the system is getting signals from your automatic garage door clicker. If the battery in the clicker is dead, then this is an easy fix. Take out the clicker’s old batteries and install new ones. If the clicker works, problem solved!

If changing the battery in the clicker and ensuring the garage door opener is plugged in does not fix the issue, then it is possible that the battery in the garage door opener itself is dead. Many automatic garage door openers have a backup battery that kicks in when the power goes out, and this battery can also die over time.

To replace the battery in the garage door opener, consult the owner’s manual for your specific model. In some cases, it may be a simple matter of removing the old battery and replacing it with a new one. In other cases, you may need to call a professional to help you replace the battery.

It is also worth noting that if the garage door opener is older, it may be time for a replacement. Older models can be prone to issues like dead batteries, and a new garage door opener can provide greater reliability and convenience.

In any case, it is important to address a dead garage door opener battery as soon as possible to prevent any inconvenience or safety hazards. A malfunctioning garage door can be a security risk, so it’s best to address the issue promptly.

2. The Photoelectric Eye is Misaligned, Obstructed, or Dirty

Near the base of your garage door is a sensor called the photoelectric eye. These sensors serve a safety function. When something is in the path of the door, the photoelectric eye will sense the object and prevent the door from opening or closing. If the photoelectric eye is misaligned, or if something is obstructing the sensor, then the door won’t open or close.

The sensors are located at the base of the garage door, on either side. If one of the sensors has been knocked out of alignment, re-align the sensor and the door should work again. If something is blocking one of the sensors, move the object.

If the sensors appear to be in good condition – neither misaligned nor blocked by anything – then clean the sensors with a microfiber cloth. If the sensors are dirty, this could be registering as an obstruction that might prevent the door from opening.

3. The Door was Disengaged

If you find that your automatic garage door opener is not functioning, it is possible that the door has been disengaged from the opener. This can happen if the emergency cord is pulled, either accidentally or intentionally. When the emergency cord is pulled, it disengages the door from the automatic opener and allows the door to be opened manually.

To re-engage the door, you will need to locate the emergency cord and follow the instructions in your garage door opener’s manual. The process for re-engaging the door may vary depending on the model of your garage door opener.

In most cases, you will need to pull the emergency cord down to its full length, which will release the door from the automatic opener. Next, lift the garage door manually until it is fully closed. Then, pull the emergency cord towards the motor unit to re-engage the door with the automatic opener.

Once the door has been re-engaged, test the automatic opener to ensure that it is functioning properly. If the opener still does not work, it may be necessary to call a professional garage door technician to inspect the opener and determine the cause of the issue.

4. Your Garage Door Needs Repair

If you have checked the battery, the photoelectric eye, and the door engagement and your garage door opener still does not work, it may be that your garage door needs repair. Garage doors can experience wear and tear over time and may require maintenance or repairs.

To get help with your garage door, it is recommended that you call a reputable and qualified garage door installer and repair person. These professionals have the expertise and equipment necessary to diagnose and repair any issues with your garage door.

When choosing a garage door repair professional, look for a company with a good reputation and positive customer reviews. Check that the company is licensed and insured, and ask for references or examples of their previous work.

Once you have selected a professional to repair your garage door, they will typically begin by inspecting the door and opener to determine the cause of the issue. They may then recommend repairs or replacements as needed. In some cases, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire garage door rather than repair it.

It is important to address any issues with your garage door promptly to ensure that it functions safely and reliably. A malfunctioning garage door can pose a safety hazard and leave your home vulnerable to intruders. By working with a qualified garage door installer and repair person, you can ensure that your garage door is working properly and keeping your home secure.

Get Your Garage Door Working – Call Us Today

At the Overhead Door Company of Wilmington, we understand how frustrating it can be when your garage door isn’t working properly. That’s why we offer prompt and professional garage door repair services to help get your door back up and running.

Our team of experienced technicians has the skills and knowledge necessary to diagnose and repair any issues with your garage door. Whether you’re dealing with a dead battery, a misaligned sensor, or a more complex problem, we have the expertise and equipment necessary to get the job done right.

When you call the Overhead Door Company of Wilmington, you can expect prompt and courteous service from our team. We understand that a malfunctioning garage door can be a major inconvenience, so we’ll work quickly to get your door working again.