DIY Security Systems
What is more problematic than a garage door opener that malfunctions? It is a frustrating issue to deal with, but it is also an obvious threat to your safety and security if not immediately fixed. In this article, you will learn the different ways on how to fix garage door openers. You will know the many kinds of garage door openers, the common problems, and how to fix them. Read on.
What Is a Garage Door Opener?
A garage door opener is a device developed to allow easier opening and closing of garage doors. Switches mounted on the garage wall control this device. You can even use remote control. It comes with different components or additional accessories to make it more convenient to use. It also has various kinds.
The Kinds of Garage Door Opener
As mentioned, there are different kinds of garage door openers. Before we get to know how to fix garage door openers, you need to know what kind of garage door opener you have installed at home. Here are the four common kinds:
Belt Drive
Belt drive door openers are great because they are quiet and low maintenance. This door opener uses a rubber belt to slide the trolley when you activate the door and produces less vibration. Given that they have a smaller number of moving parts, you do not have to monitor the device regularly.
Chain Drive
The chain drive opener is the most affordable among the kinds of garage doors. It works on a metal chain that elevates or lowers the door. However, it is noisy and preferably installed detached from your house.
Direct Drive
This garage door opener is the simplest of all kinds because the motor itself moves the trolley. There is no belt, chain, or thread piece to open or close the garage doors. What is great about it is that it runs quiet and smooth and does not require regular maintenance.
Screw Drive
Screw drive garage door openers are ideal because, like the belt drive, they are also quiet and low maintenance. They use a threaded steel rod that moves the trolley to lift or lower the garage door. It is great for any home.
How to Fix Garage Door Openers
Now that you know the different kinds of garage door openers, it is time to learn the different ways on how to fix garage door openers. You will encounter a list of the most common garage door opener problems and their corresponding solutions.
Remote Control or Wall Switch Failure
This one is the most common problem you will encounter with your garage door opener is remote control or wall switch failure. You only have to check if the motor unit of the opener is unplugged. Check the outlet and plug the unit in.
Another issue will be the possibility of the burning out of your circuit breaker or fuse. The solution to that is to replace the breaker or fuse with a new one. Lastly, it might be the motor of the garage door opener that has burned out. The solution is to have it replaced.
No Response from Remote or Keypad
There is a possibility that you are only out of range of the opener; move closer. Also, make sure that the antenna is working properly. However, if the garage door opener is fine, you may need to replace your remote or keypad batteries. You can even reprogram both devices but always consult the manual.
Door Does Not Close Fully
There are three main causes for this: one, the close-limit switch needs adjustment; two, the safety sensors need realignment; and three, the rollers suffer from damage or rust. The solution to the first cause is to adjust the close-limit switch through the screw in the motor unit that tells you how far the door closes. For the second problem, make sure nothing is blocking the safety sensors on the bottom of the door track. For the third, apply silicone lubricant on the rusty or damaged rollers.
Door Reverses Before Closing
Two problems may cause this: one, the close-limit switch needs adjustment, and two, the rollers are rusty. The solution to the first one is to adjust the switch for lesser sensitivity caused by friction with the rollers. For the second problem, lubricate it with a silicone lubricant.
Door Does Not Open Completely
This problem usually happens because one, the up-limit switch is far from the motor unit, and two, the rollers are malfunctioning. The solution to this first problem is to move the switch close to the motor unit. The solution to the second one is to replace the roller or lubricate those that are rusty.
Door Opens, But Motor Keeps Running
This one is the opposite of the previous problem. It usually happens when the up-limit switch is close to the motor unit. This problem is rare and usually occurs during installation, but the solution is to move the switch away from the motor unit.
Conclusion
Now you know how to fix garage door openers! Always remember that there are four different kinds of garage door openers that you can choose from. However, you need to familiarize yourself with the guidelines and the rules on how to fix these devices. This way, you will always keep your house secure, especially your garage, and yourself from potential intruders. It is always your safety first when it comes to these matters. Here’s how to learn more about Garage Doors.