Before you even try to get too technical with garage door
openers, you need to troubleshoot the basics. We are talking about
a very heavy and large door that can be dangerous if not working
properly. Electrical work can also be dangerous if you don't know
what you are doing. Check these basics first before getting into
the guts of garage door openers:
If the door won't go up or down, check the batteries in all of
your remotes. This may sound too simple, but have you thought of
it? Sometimes it's the simplest thing that we overlook. If the door
won't close all the way down and reverses direction, make sure the
sensors on either side are aligned and that noting is obstructing
them.
This is a wonderful safety feature but can also cause a lot of
frustration if this is the problem. Another basic step is to make
sure the power cord hasn't come loose from the outlet. Check all
the other wires to make sure they are making a good connection and
that they are not damaged or frayed.
One more possibility if your door goes up and down on its own is
your neighbor. A phantom door may actually be on working on the
same frequency as your neighbor's door. All you have to do is
reprogram the frequency.
After you've done your troubleshooting, try your basic
maintenance steps-oil the moving part and check the springs and
hinges for rust. Another issue that may prevent the door from
opening or closing is if the frame has been warped. If the tracks
become misaligned, the rollers won't be able to smoothly glide up
and down.
But, if it is an electrical problem, the circuit board may be
fried. A power surge, lightning and age could cause the brain of
garage door openers to stop working. If you've tried the other
troubleshooting steps and think it must be the board, you can
replace it.
Just make sure you order the right part by double checking the
make and model. If age is the cause for its demise, you may want to
consider buying a whole new system. With advancements in safety and
efficiency, upgrading your equipment is a good idea.
The best way to avoid problems with garage door openers is to
give them a yearly tune-up. Along with lubricating moving parts,
make sure the electrical component is clean-free of dust, debris
and cobwebs. But, if it just seems like too much, call in a
professional. This is electrical equipment and can be very
dangerous.
Remember to cut the power anytime you get into the guts of any
electrical equipment and start replacing wires, etc. Sometimes it
is just safer to call in an experienced repair man. Properly
working garage door openers are essential...not just for
convenience, but also for safety.