Doors & Windows

A garage door opener is a simple machine with just a few main parts. If your door won't open or close, always check the easiest things first. Look at the wall switch and the remote control batteries. Are they fresh? Next, see if the small safety sensor beams near the floor are blocked or knocked out of line. A stray leaf, cobweb, or a bumped bracket can stop the whole system. Cleaning the lenses and making sure both sensors face each other directly with no blinking lights solves many problems. Also, listen for unusual grinding or straining noises, which can point to a worn gear or a need for lubrication.

For smooth operation, a little maintenance goes a long way. Once a year, clean and lightly lubricate the metal track the door rolls on, avoiding the plastic safety sensor eyes. Use a silicone spray or white lithium grease on the chain or screw drive, and on the rollers and hinges. Never use heavy oil, as it attracts dirt and grime. If you need to adjust the force or travel limits, find the small screws on the main unit's side. Turn them only a tiny bit, a quarter-turn at a time, and test the door after each adjustment. The door should reverse immediately if it hits a two-inch block of wood on the floor. Remember, the springs that counterbalance the door's weight are extremely dangerous; never attempt to repair or adjust those yourself.