My Garage Door Is Not Closing

How to maintain and troubleshoot your garage door.

Warranty Expectations 

Troubleshooting Steps

• Garage Door Won’t Open or Close
  • Possible Causes:
    • Dead batteries in the remote
    • Misaligned or blocked photo-eye sensors
    • Disconnected power supply [Understanding My Circuit Breakers]
  • How to Fix It:
    • Replace the batteries in the remote control.
    • Check if the photo-eye sensors near the bottom of the door are aligned and free from obstructions.
    • Ensure the power supply to the garage door opener is connected and functioning.
  • Garage Door Makes Unusual Noises [Understanding My Circuit Breakers]
    • Possible Causes:
      • Loose hardware
      • Worn-out rollers
      • Poor lubrication
      • Misaligned tracks
    • How to Fix It:
      • Apply a silicone-based lubricant to the rollers, hinges, and tracks.
      • If the rollers appear damaged or worn, replace them with nylon rollers for quieter operation.
      • Check the tracks for bends or obstructions and carefully adjust them if needed.
      • Note: If you have a room located directly above the garage, it is normal to hear the garage door when it opens and closes. While proper maintenance can reduce noise, some level of sound and vibration is to be expected.
    • Garage Door Opens or Closes Partially
      • Possible Causes:
        • Broken cables
        • Misaligned tracks
        • Obstruction in the path
        • Limit settings need adjustment
      • How to Fix It:
        • Inspect cables for fraying or breakage; call a professional for replacement. [Van Metre Life]
        • Clear any debris or obstructions from the tracks.
        • Adjust the limit settings on the garage door opener following the manufacturer’s instructions.
      • Garage Door Reverses Before Closing
        • Possible Causes:
          • Dirty or misaligned safety sensors
          • Damaged or obstructed tracks
          • Incorrect travel limit settings
        • How to Fix It:
          • Wipe off dirt or debris from the safety sensors and ensure they are aligned properly.
          • Check for any physical obstructions on the tracks and remove them.
          • Adjust the travel limit settings per the garage door opener’s manual.
        • Remote Control or Keypad Not Working
          • Possible Causes:
            • Dead batteries
            • Signal interference
            • Reprogramming needed
          • How to Fix It:
            • Replace the batteries in the remote or keypad.
            • Ensure you're within range and that nothing is blocking the signal.
            • Reprogram the remote or keypad according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
            • How to Program the Keypad:
              • Locate the "Learn" button on your garage door opener (usually on the back or side of the motor unit).
              • Press and release the "Learn" button. You will typically have 30 seconds to complete the next step.
              • Enter your desired 4-digit PIN on the keypad, then press and hold the "Enter" button.
              • When the lights on the opener blink or you hear a click, the keypad is successfully programmed.
              • Test the keypad to ensure it operates the door correctly.
              • Refer to your garage door opener's manual for model-specific instructions.
            • Garage Door Moves Unevenly
              • Possible Causes:
                • Worn-out or broken springs
                • Bent or misaligned tracks
                • Issues with the door’s balance
              • How to Fix It:
                • Check the balance of the door by disconnecting the opener and manually lifting the door halfway; if it doesn't stay in place, the springs may need adjustment.
                • Inspect tracks for bends and adjust them if necessary.
                • For broken springs, call a professional for safe replacement. [Van Metre Life]
              • Garage Door is Slow to Respond
                • Possible Causes:
                  • Weak signal from remote
                  • Motor issues
                  • Poor lubrication
                • How to Fix It:
                  • Check the remote’s batteries and replace them if necessary.
                  • Lubricate moving parts like rollers and hinges.
                  • If the problem persists, a professional may need to inspect the motor.
                • Operating the Garage Door During a Power Outage
                  • What to Do:
                    • Locate the red emergency release cord hanging from the garage door opener.
                    • Pull the cord straight down to disconnect the door from the opener.
                    • You can now manually lift the garage door to open or close it.
                    • Be sure to re-engage the door with the opener once power is restored by pulling the cord toward the door or running the opener. . [Understanding My Circuit Breakers]

Preventative Maintenance Tips

• Lubricate moving parts every 6 months.
• Regularly check for loose hardware and tighten as needed.
• Keep sensors clean and properly aligned.
• Test the balance of the door periodically.
• Schedule an annual professional inspection for safety and efficiency.

By staying proactive and addressing minor issues early, you can keep your garage door functioning smoothly and avoid costly repairs down the road.