A garage door opener is a key component of your garage door. The opener gives you the liberty to open and close the heavy garage door without stepping out of the car. It comes in handy for a number of reasons, but especially during bad weather or late at night.
In this guide, we will talk about the importance of the garage door opener and whether its maintenance is necessary. In the end, we will discuss a few tips to Maintain your Garage Door Opener and keep it functional for a long time.
Is Maintenance Really Necessary?
Most garage door openers have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years but there is no guarantee that they will last that long. Without regular maintenance, wear and tear can creep in early and lead to frequent breakdowns, forcing you to pay a hefty amount with each repair.
But costly repairs are not the only problem. Imagine it halts in the middle of the night, and your property is left vulnerable to thieves and strangers. A poorly maintained opener can compromise the security of your property. Regular maintenance ensures that your garage door works, especially when you need it the most.
Benefits of Regularly Maintaining the Garage Door Opener
- Safety: Regular inspections can help you spot underlying problems, reducing the risk of injuries in the future.
- Saves Money: If you detect minor issues early on, you can save yourself from spending on emergency Garage Door Repairs.
- Extends Lifespan: A well-maintained garage door opener can outlive its expected lifespan and is less likely to wear out early.
- Energy Efficient: A properly working opener uses less power and puts less strain on your electrical system.
- Prevents Unexpected Breakdowns: Proper upkeep reduces the chances of your opener suddenly failing, in odd hours or during harsh weather.
Tips to Maintain a Garage Door Opener
- Inspect the System Monthly: Look for loose bolts, frayed wires, and unusual sounds while opening and closing the garage door.
- Lubricate Moving Parts: Apply a silicone-based lubricant or garage door-specific grease to the opener’s chain, hinges, and rollers.
- Test the Auto-Reverse Feature: Place a small object in the door’s path and use the opener to close it. The door should reverse automatically upon contact. If it doesn’t, adjust the settings or consult a garage door repair professional.
- Replace Remote Batteries: If your garage door opener is not responding or has become slow, it might be time to change the batteries in your remote control.
- Check Out the Safety Sensors: Wipe away dust and debris from the sensors at the base of the door and make sure the sensors are aligned.
When to Call for Professional Garage Door Services?
While basic issues can be solved at home, some issues require the help of a trained technician. If your Garage Door Opener is making noises, struggling to lift the door, or operating inconsistently, then it is time to hire a professional garage door company.
If you are unsure, we will take a look. Don’t wait for a complete breakdown—call us as soon as you notice something off.