Winter is already at our doorstep, so it’s important to inspect your garage door before you find yourself faced with any unpleasant surprises. The whole process will only take about 30 minutes, using items you already have around the house.
1. Check the battery in your remote:
Depending on how often you use your garage door, the flat, round battery inside your remote can last up to 12 months. Always keep a spare one on hand.
2. Check the battery in the external keypad:
This 9-volt battery is located underneath the keypad cover. You may need a Phillips screwdriver to open the compartment. Since this battery is subjected to extreme temperature fluctuations, you should change it yearly.
3. Check the counterbalancing system (the springs) in your garage door:
To do this, disable your garage door opener by pulling the emergency cord. Open the garage door gently using one hand. Were you able to do it easily? If it’s hard to open, there are several possible causes. Don’t attempt to fix it by yourself. Contact a Garaga specialist, who will identify the cause of the problem and repair it on-site.
4. Check all weather-stripping:
Is the weather-stripping on the outer door frame working correctly without being smashed tightly against the door? If there is any damage or any hardening caused by the sun, take the time to replace it. If it’s made of PVC, apply a silicone-based lubricant.
Also take a look at the weather-stripping at the bottom of the door. Is it worn or damaged? You can change this weather-stripping yourself by following the instructions provided by your local Garaga retailer.
5. Lubricate the metal parts of your hardware:
Inside your garage, lubricate all the metallic parts: rollers, tracks and springs.
- Before reapplying, use a dry cloth to remove any remaining lubricant from years past, and most importantly, any accumulated dust.
- Use an oil-based lubricant (e.g. 10W-30 motor oil).
- Apply sparingly, wiping up the excess with a rag.
- Do not use lubricants such as WD-40, as these are actually degreasers, rather than lubricants.
- Do not use grease, especially on the tracks. The rollers should roll, rather than slide inside the track.
6. Check your garage door’s automatic reversal systems:
There are two different types—one mechanical and one photoelectric:
- Mechanical: Place a two-by-four on the threshold of your garage door. Press the button to close the door. When it contacts the piece of wood, the door should detect the resistance, stop and then go back up. If it doesn’t, consult the door opener maintenance manual to find the location of the button for making the necessary adjustments.
- Photoelectric: If you have this type of safety system in place (2 encased units about 4” off the ground), just stick your foot in front of the beam while the door is closing. If the door doesn’t stop and then reverse, the most common cause of the problem is that the two units are misaligned. Check and correct the alignment and then try again. If it still doesn’t work, contact a Garaga Experts professional immediately.
So, there you have it: a few little tips that will help you avoid some big problems. If you don’t have enough time or aren’t the DIY type, contact a Garaga Experts technician.
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