There are 4 common reasons your garage door may need service – can you list them? Familiarize yourself with these problems and explore their possible solutions. Take these steps and you could prevent yourself from garage door repair scams.

In our last blog, we shared with you Garage Door Repair Scams- Consumer Alert Video that was produced by International Door Association(IDA) and Door & Access Systems Manufacturers Associations (DASMA).

Since many homeowners lack a working knowledge of the individual parts or mechanics of a garage door system, they can be taken advantage of by disreputable garage door repair companies.

Keep reading to learn what steps you can take to prevent yourself from falling victim to these scams.

KNOW YOUR GARAGE DOOR SYSTEM

1.) First of all, increase your knowledge. To help you understand your garage door system and understand the terminology a garage door repair technician uses, we compiled a comprehensive (though not complete) list of terms and definitions relating to garage doors, installation, and service. Refer to our blog:  Know Your Garage Door System- Garage Door Terminology Explained.

2.) Now that you’re more familiar with the terminology, watch this video produced by the IDA and DASMA, which explains 4 Common Reasons Your Garage Door May Need Service.  Equipped with this information, you can better protect yourself against getting service and parts that you may not need.

4 COMMON REASONS YOUR GARAGE DOOR MAY NEED SERVICE

Problem 1: Malfunctioning Photo Eye

Garage door openers manufactured since 1993 are required to include photo eyes or safety motion sensors. These are mounted no higher than 6 inches above the ground, and project a light beam across the garage door opening. If anything interrupts the beam, the garage door automatically reverses, and the opener lights flash.

Photo eyes can become misaligned, obstructed or dirty – often a primary reason for garage doors not closing. You can clean and make adjustments yourself.

Solution:

• LEDs glow steadily on the sending and receiving sensors when sensors are properly aligned, and wiring connections are correct.
• The sending sensor glows regardless of whether there is proper alignment or an obstruction.
• Alignment is required if the LED on the receiving sensor is dim, flickering, or off (and the invisible light beam path is not obstructed).
• Watch this LiftMaster Video: How to Align Safety Rerversing Sensors for instructions.
• Note: The colours of sensor lights vary with manufacturer.

Problem 2: Broken Spring

Garage door springs are calculated to counterbalance the weight of your door. A garage door has one of two types of counterbalance spring systems – an extension spring system or torsion spring system. Extension springs are located above the upper tracks on both sides of the door. A torsion spring is located on the wall directly above the door opening.

Garage door springs snap as a result of normal wear and tear. When the metal has fatigued to the breaking point, the spring may break suddenly. When this happens, you may hear a loud bang; it may even sound like a gun shot.

Warning: It is strongly recommend that you hire a professional to replace a broken spring. These parts are under extreme tension. Serious injuries occur every year as a result of attempting this repair without proper training and equipment. It is essential to have the right tools and know-how to do the job safely. A trained technician will have the expertise to spot and safely correct potentially dangerous situations.

Solution:

• Only do a visual inspection of the spring.
• Stop using the door at the sign of a broken spring. Call a professional.
• If the garage door has two springs, it is appropriate to replace both springs.
• Call a few service repair companies for prices of this repair if the quote you received seems unreasonably high.

Problem 3: Malfunctioning Remote Control

The garage door opener should operate after one firm push of the remote button. If not, the first step is to refer to the owner’s manual, as there are several troubleshooting steps to take which may solve the problem before calling for service. Homeowners can find many of the owner’s manuals online.

Solution:

• Review the tips we suggest in 7 Reasons Why Garage Remote Won’t Work before you contact a repair company.
• Check Photo Eyes for obstructions or misalignment.
• Contact a reputable garage door repair company if problem persists.
• Note: Unless your garage door operator is more than 10 years old, a new operator is not likely needed. If you do need a new operator, research installed prices for residential garage door openers. [/custom_blockquote]

Problem 4: Noisy Door

There are many parts at play in the daily operation of a garage door system. It is common for garage doors to become noisy due to wear and tear. A completely silent garage door is next to impossible, but with a few simple steps, the noises you hear can be reduced.

Solution:

• Regularly lubricate the metal components such as the hinges, rollers, and springs for smooth operation.
• Tighten all nuts and bolts. Daily operation can often rattle these loose and cause noise. A basic wrench and socket set could solve the problem.
• Inspect rollers on each side of tracks. Rollers should roll, not slide inside the tracks. Identify any worn or broken rollers by watching as the door opens and closes. Consider upgrading from metal rollers to nylon rollers, which are much quieter. Contact a professional garage door technician to replace rollers. Attempting to replace rollers on your own, especially the ones located in the bottom section, is extremely dangerous.
• Inspect hinges which can wear down, seize, or crack. Lubricate seized hinges. If hinge is worn or cracked, contact a trained professional immediately so they can replace it for noise reduction and safety.
• Inspect garage door opener. Make sure that the chain or belt is taut. Lubricate the garage door opener chain: apply small amount of oil to the chain and the pinions at each end. Important: If your opener is belt-driven, do not apply anything to the rubber belt.
• Contact a trained professional if noises persist. They can assess the situation quickly, safely, and at a reasonable cost.

BEFORE PURCHASING REPLACEMENT PARTS

If a technician is suggesting additional parts it’s advisable to:

• Question the technician why the parts are needed.
• Obtain an additional estimate from member of IDA to make sure prices quoted to you are within reason.

Equip yourself with an increased knowledge of your garage door system, have an understanding of the 4 common reasons your garage door may need service, and be aware garage door repair scams do exist. By taking these steps, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to a garage door repair scam.

CONTACT ACCREDITED, TRAINED PROFESSIONALS

If you have a concern about your garage door, consider Upright Door Service Inc for the job. We’ve been tested and approved in our practices, reputation, and knowledge. We have the accreditation to prove it. Trust us for your garage door and operator needs. Contact us today 905-852-1981.

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