After experiencing a power outage, it is not uncommon for garage door openers to stop working. This can be a frustrating experience, especially if you are trying to leave your home or get your car out of the garage.
The good news is that there are several steps you can take to help troubleshoot the problem and hopefully get your garage door working again.
One of the most common reasons why a garage door won’t work after a power outage is because the opener has become disconnected from the door.
This can happen if the power outage caused a surge that damaged the opener or if the opener was unplugged during the outage. Fortunately, reconnecting the opener to the door is a relatively simple process that can be done in just a few minutes. Read on to find out how.
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Reasons Your Garage Door May Not Working After A Power Outage
When a power outage occurs, it can cause a lot of inconvenience, especially when it comes to your garage door. Many factors can contribute to your garage door not working after a power outage. Here are some of the most common causes:
Garage Door Opener Not Receiving Power
One of the most common causes of a garage door not working after a power outage is the garage door opener not receiving power. This issue can occur when the circuit breaker or fuse that controls the garage door opener is tripped or blown. In this case, you can try resetting the circuit breaker or replacing the blown fuse to restore power to the garage door opener.
Read this article if you’ve got a GoControl garage door opener that’s beeping.
Circuit Board Malfunction
Another reason why your garage door may not work after a power outage is a bad circuit board. The circuit board is responsible for controlling the garage door opener, and if it malfunctions, it can cause the garage door to stop working. If you suspect that the circuit board is faulty, you may need to replace it to restore functionality to your garage door opener.
Power Surge or Lightning Strike
A power surge or lightning strike during a storm can also cause your garage door to stop working after a power outage. When a power surge or lightning strike occurs, it can damage the circuit board or other components of the garage door opener. In this case, you may need to replace the damaged components to restore functionality to your garage door opener.
Steps To Try To Fix Your Garage Door After A Power Outage
There are several troubleshooting steps you can take to try to get your garage door woking again:
Check Power Source and Circuit Breaker
The first step in troubleshooting a garage door that won’t work after a power outage is to check the power source and circuit breaker. Make sure the opener is plugged in and the garage circuit breaker is in the correct place. If the circuit breaker has tripped, reset it and try opening the garage door again.
Reconnect Trolley or Opener Carriage
If the power is on and the garage door still won’t work, the trolley or opener carriage may have become disconnected. To reconnect it, pull the emergency release cord to disengage the opener from the door. Then, manually move the door up and down to re-engage the trolley or opener carriage.
Reset Garage Door Opener
If the garage door opener still won’t work after reconnecting the trolley or opener carriage, try resetting the opener. Disconnect the opener from power and wait a few minutes before plugging it back in. Then, run the opener for a cycle, opening the door fully and closing it fully while listening for any strange or loud sounds.
Manually Operate the Garage Door
If the garage door opener still won’t work after resetting it, try manually operating the door. Pull the emergency release cord to disengage the opener from the door, then lift the door manually. If the door operates smoothly and without resistance, the problem may be with the opener.
Check Safety Sensors and Keypad
If the garage door won’t close after a power outage, check the safety sensors and keypad. Make sure the sensors are properly aligned and free from obstructions. Replace the batteries of the keypad or remote control if necessary.
Lubricate Tracks and Moving Parts
Finally, if the garage door still won’t work after trying these troubleshooting steps, it may be time for maintenance or repairs. Lubricate the tracks and moving parts regularly to keep the door functioning properly. If you’re not comfortable performing DIY repairs, contact a garage door technician or garage door repair service for assistance.
When to Call a Professional Garage Door Repair Service
While resetting your garage door after a power outage is a simple task, there are some situations where it’s best to call in a professional garage door repair service.
Here are some scenarios where you should consider hiring a professional:
1. Broken Springs
If you notice that your garage door is not opening or closing smoothly or if you hear loud noises, it could be due to broken springs. Springs are an essential component of your garage door system, and they require a professional’s expertise to fix. Attempting to fix them yourself can be dangerous and cause further damage.
2. Damaged Panels
If your garage door panels are damaged, it’s best to call a professional garage door repair service. While you may be able to replace a panel yourself, it’s essential to ensure that the new panel matches the existing one in terms of color, style, and material. A professional can help you choose the right panel and install it correctly.
3. Malfunctioning Opener
If your garage door opener is not functioning correctly, it could be due to a faulty motor, circuit board, or other components. A professional garage door repair service can diagnose the problem and provide the necessary repairs or replacements.
4. Safety Concerns
If you notice any safety concerns, such as broken cables or loose hardware, it’s best to call a professional immediately. These issues can cause serious injuries or property damage if not addressed promptly.
Conclusion
While some garage door issues can be fixed with a little DIY, it’s best to call a professional garage door repair service if you’re unsure or if the problem requires specialized knowledge or equipment. A professional can ensure that your garage door is functioning correctly and safely.
