Automatic garage doors are very convenient for the most part. However, problems always happen at the worst possible moment. For example, you are late for work, you need to pick up a child from school, or there is an appointment you can’t miss and the garage door will not close. This is one of the most common problems people report with automatic garage doors. The good news is you can often troubleshoot the problem in minutes. You just need to know what to look for.
Lock-Out Switch
Garage door systems often have a button that the owner can use to lock-out all remotes when they go on vacation. This can help prevent a break-in when the owners are away, but when the button is switched accidentally, it can be a nuisance. You need to look on your wall mounted control panel. Look for a switch or button for a lock-out or vacation setting and make sure it is not switched on.
Blocked Sensors
You should have a sensor on each side of your garage door at ground level. These sensors are also called “photo-eyes” because they need to be in line with one another for the door to function. If something is blocking the sensors the door will not close. This is for the protection of owners and their pets. There are a few reasons that would make the sensors think something is in the way. One sensor may have been jarred from alignment. The lens on the sensors may need to be cleaned. Also, make sure the sensor is not in direct sunlight as that can affect it. Make sure all the wires to the sensors are not loose.
Too Sensitive
It may also be that your door is too sensitive. Typically, you would want an experienced garage door technician to change the sensitivity on the door. This setting exists to protect people and pets from getting hurt by the closing garage door. When the door meets resistance while closing, it has a safety function that will make the door open again. People who are experienced with automatic garage door repair can change the sensitivity so that it takes more resistance to activate the safety function. If you attempt this yourself, always keep the safety issues in mind. Also, make sure you follow all instructions. Changing the settings of your garage door can cause damage the system and void warranties.
Emergency Disconnect
If you have exhausted all of your options, you may not be able to fix the problem on your own. That doesn’t mean you have to miss your appointment or leave your home exposed to thieves. If all else fails, disconnect the door by pulling the emergency release. You should then be able to open and close your door manually. Call your garage service company to send a technician to look at your garage door. It could be internal problems or parts that need to be replaced.
If your garage door will not close, you have options. You can try to troubleshoot the problem. It may be a small as a simple switch or as complicated as a busted sensor. Keep in mind that the garage door repair person can tell you for sure what the problem is. This might be the best way to ensure you don’t have the same problem tomorrow.
