Garage doors are an essential component of any home, providing security and convenience. However, they can be vulnerable to damage during storms, often leaving homeowners with a malfunctioning garage door.
If your garage door isn’t working after a storm, there could be several reasons why.
One common reason for a malfunctioning garage door after a storm is damage to the garage door opener. Lightning strikes or power surges can damage the electrical components of the garage door opener, causing it to malfunction. Additionally, heavy winds or debris from the storm can damage the garage door itself, leading to issues with opening and closing.
Whatever the cause, a malfunctioning garage door can be frustrating and inconvenient, but with the right knowledge, it can be fixed.
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What To Do If Your Garage Door Isn’t Working After A Storm
If your garage door isn’t working after a storm, there are several things you can do to troubleshoot the problem. Here are some steps you can take:
Checking for Obstructions
The first thing you should do is check for any obstructions in the garage door track. Look for any debris or objects that may be blocking the door from opening or closing. If you find anything, remove it and try opening or closing the door again.
Resetting the Garage Door Opener
If there are no obstructions, try resetting the garage door opener. To do this, locate the disconnect switch on the opener and unplug it. Wait a few minutes before plugging it back in and trying to operate the door again. This can help reset the opener and get it working again.
If the motor is running but the door isn’t opening, something else is the issue.
Checking the Safety Sensor
If the door still won’t close, check the garage door safety sensors. These sensors are located near the bottom of the door and can become misaligned or dirty over time. Make sure they are clean and properly aligned. If they are not, adjust them until they are and try operating the door again.
Checking the Power Source
If the door still isn’t working, check the power source. Make sure the opener is plugged in and that the circuit breaker for the garage is in the correct position. If you have a power outage, check to see if other electrical appliances in your home are working. If they are not, the problem may be with the electricity in your area.
Manual Operation
If all else fails, you can try manually operating the garage door. This involves pulling the emergency release cord to disconnect the door from the opener. You can then lift the door manually and secure it in place. Be sure to re-engage the opener when you are done.
Damage Assessment
After a storm, it is important to assess the damage to your garage door opener to determine the necessary repairs. The following sub-sections will guide you through a thorough damage assessment.
Inspecting the Tracks
Begin by inspecting the tracks for any visible damage or obstructions. Clean out any debris that may have accumulated in the tracks and make sure they are properly aligned. Misaligned tracks can cause the garage door to malfunction.
Checking the Trolley and Emergency Release Cord
Check the trolley and emergency release cord for any signs of damage. The trolley is the mechanism that connects the garage door to the opener and moves along the chain or arm to open and close the door.
The emergency release cord allows you to operate the garage door manually in case of a power outage or other emergency. Make sure the trolley and emergency release cord are properly connected and functioning.
Examining the Circuit Board
Check the circuit board for any signs of damage, particularly if your garage door opener does not work after a storm. A lightning strike or power surge can damage the circuit board, causing the garage door opener to malfunction. If the circuit board is damaged, it may need to be replaced. Consider installing a surge protector to prevent future damage.
Checking the Springs
Check the springs for any signs of wear or damage. Broken springs can cause the garage door to malfunction and may require professional repair. Torsion springs are located above the garage door and extension springs are located on either side of the door. If you are unsure how to check the springs, contact a garage door technician for assistance.
In conclusion, a thunderstorm or other storm damage can cause mechanical damage to your garage door opener. By following the steps outlined above, you can assess the damage and determine the necessary repairs. Remember to always prioritize safety and contact a professional if you are unsure how to proceed.
Protecting Your Garage Door
When it comes to protecting your garage door and opener from storm damage, there are a few preventative measures you can take to minimize the risk of malfunction. Here are two important measures to consider:
Surge Protection
Power surges are a common occurrence during thunderstorms, and they can damage your garage door opener’s circuit board. To prevent this from happening, you can install a surge protector on your garage door opener. Surge protectors are designed to divert excess voltage away from your opener, preventing it from being damaged.
Make Sure It Is Fully Closed
If you know a storm is brewing, you’re going to want to make sure you close your garage door completely and make sure you don’t leave it partially open. If you have the ability to lock the door, do that also.
Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is key to ensuring your garage door and opener are working properly. This includes inspecting the tracks, rollers, and safety sensors to ensure they are free of debris and functioning correctly. It’s also important to lubricate the moving parts of your garage door to prevent wear and tear.
In addition to regular maintenance, it’s a good idea to have your garage door serviced by a professional at least once a year. A professional can inspect your garage door and opener for any potential issues and make any necessary repairs.
By taking these preventative measures, you can help protect your garage door and opener from storm damage.
Conclusion
By following these troubleshooting steps, you can often get your garage door working again, however, if you are unable to fix the problem yourself, it may be time to call a professional for assistance.
You may want to read this article if you have a GoControl garage door opener that’s beeping after a storm.
