It is important to make sure your garage door’s safety features work well. This helps protect your home and family. Here’s a guide to safely test your garage door’s important features.
Visual and Sound Inspection
- Examine your garage door for any signs of wear and tear, including loose parts, damage, or worn areas, especially in the springs. The springs and cables support the door’s weight, making it easier to lift. Check to see if they look overstretched or broken. The door should move up and down smoothly, without sagging or jerking.
- Also pay attention to any unusual noises, like popping, banging, or squealing sounds. These can signal a need for lubrication, repair, or further inspection. Addressing odd sounds early can help prevent larger issues and keep your garage door running reliably.
Mechanical Inspection and Testing
1. Testing the Garage Door Auto-Reverse Mechanism
- What it is: The auto-reverse mechanism stops the garage door from closing on objects or people. The safety reverse changes direction if it detects an obstruction.
- How to test: Place an object like a wooden block in the door’s path. Close the door; it should reverse as it touches the block. If not, consult a technician for repairs.
2. Checking the Photo-Eye Sensors
- What they are: The photo-eye safety sensors, located on either side of the garage door, detect obstacles in the door’s path.
- How to test garage door sensors: Stand clear of the door and wave an object, like a broom, in front of the sensors as the door closes. If the door does not immediately reverse, it’s time for a professional service.
3. Testing Manual Release Function
- What it is: This feature allows you to manually open or close the door during a power outage.
- How to test: Pull the red release cord while the door is closed to disconnect the opener. Lift the door manually to check it opens smoothly. Re-engage the opener by reconnecting the cord.
4. Testing Cables and Springs
- What they do: Springs and cables support the door’s weight, making it easier to lift.
- How to test: Pull the manual release, raise the door halfway, and let go. If the door stays in place, springs are likely fine. if it falls or rises, it may need adjusting by a professional garage door technician.
Call Robert’s Garage Door Professionals of Chicago
Regularly testing these safety features keeps your garage door functioning properly. If you have any problems during your garage door safety test, contact Robert’s Garage Door Professionals. We can help you keep your residential or commercial garage door operation safe and reliable.
