Garage Door Opener Maintenance 101: What You Need to Know

A garage door opener is an essential part of your home's security and convenience. With regular garage door opener maintenance, you can ensure that your garage door opener continues to work smoothly for years to come.

Regular maintenance helps to prevent garage door opener failure, which can be inconvenient and costly to repair. It also helps to ensure the safety of your family and possessions by ensuring that the garage door opener is working correctly.

Before you start working on your garage door opener, make sure to disconnect it from the power source to avoid electrocution. Also, ensure that your hands are free from any grease or oil, which can cause you to slip while working.

Inspecting your garage door opener is the first step to proper maintenance. Check for any wear and tear, such as frayed wires, loose bolts, or damaged gears. Also, check the tracks for any debris or obstructions that can affect the movement of the garage door.

• Testing the Safety Features
  Testing the safety features of your garage door opener is essential to ensure that it is working correctly. Test the auto-reverse function by placing a piece of wood under the garage door and see if it reverses when it hits the wood. Also, test the photoelectric sensors by placing an object in front of the garage door, and checking if it reverses when the object is in its path.
• Lubrication
  Lubrication is essential for the smooth operation of your garage door opener. Use a silicone-based lubricant to lubricate the tracks, hinges, rollers, and springs. Avoid using WD-40 or any other petroleum-based lubricants as they can cause the parts to break down over time.

• Tightening the Hardware
  Tightening the hardware is essential for the safety and security of your garage door opener. Check all the nuts and bolts to ensure they are tight, especially the ones that hold the tracks in place.
• Checking the Balance of the Garage Door
  Checking the balance of your garage door is essential to ensure that it is not putting too much strain on the garage door opener. To check the balance, disconnect the garage door opener and manually lift the garage door. It should lift smoothly and stay open without falling or rising.
• Replacing the Batteries
  Replacing the batteries in your garage door opener's remote control is essential to ensure that it continues to work correctly. Replace the batteries every six months to one year, depending on how frequently you use the remote control.
• Replacing Worn Out Parts
  Replacing worn-out parts is essential to keep your garage door opener working correctly. If you notice any worn-out parts, such as frayed cables or damaged gears, replace them immediately to prevent further damage to your garage door opener.

If you experience any problems with your garage door opener, there are a few things you can check before calling in a professional. Check if the power source is connected, if the remote control is working correctly, and if the safety features are functioning as they should be.

There are some signs that indicate that you need professional help with your garage door opener. These include unusual sounds, slow operation, the garage door not opening or closing completely, or any other problems that you are not comfortable fixing yourself.

Even with proper maintenance, your garage door opener will eventually wear out and need to be replaced. Some signs that it's time to replace your garage door opener include age, frequent repairs, and reduced performance.

Don’t skip your Garage Door Opener Maintenance

Regular garage door opener maintenance is essential for the safety and security of your home. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your garage door opener continues to work smoothly and reliably for years to come.

For professional Garage Door Opener maintenance and installation in Houston, TX, call My Garage And Gates at (832) 400 4888. 

How often should I lubricate my garage door opener?

You should lubricate your garage door opener every six months.

How do I test the auto-reverse function of my garage door opener?

Place a piece of wood under the garage door and see if it reverses when it hits the wood.

What should I do if my garage door opener is making unusual sounds?

Check for any loose or worn-out parts, and if you can't find the problem, call a professional.

Can I replace the batteries in my garage door opener remote control?

Yes, you can replace the batteries in your garage door opener remote control every six months to one year.

How do I check the balance of my garage door?

Disconnect the garage door opener and manually lift the garage door. It should lift smoothly and stay open without falling or rising.