5 Reasons Garage Door Openers Might Make a Grinding Noise
Automatic garage door openers are a must-have accessory for many homeowners n Visalia. They’re convenient during bad weather and keep the contents of your garage secure. But, a malfunction or grinding noises signal that there might a be problem that requires professional garage door repair.
What Causes Garage Door Openers to Make Noise?
1. Misaligned or worn-out gears. Over time, the gears inside the garage door opener can become misaligned or worn out, resulting in a grinding noise.
Solution: Contact a professional technician to inspect and replace the damaged gears.
2. Loose or damaged chain. If the chain that operates the garage door opener becomes loose or damaged, it can create a grinding noise.
Solution: Tighten the chain or replace it if it’s severely damaged. Lubricating the chain regularly can also help reduce noise.
3. Malfunctioning motor. A malfunction can cause grinding or scraping noises when operating the garage door opener.
Solution: Consult a professional technician to diagnose and repair or replace the motor.
4. Lack of lubrication. Insufficient lubrication on the moving parts, such as rollers, hinges, or tracks, can result in friction and grinding sounds.
Solution: Apply a suitable lubricant to the moving parts as recommended by the manufacturer.
5. Damaged or worn-out rollers. If the rollers that guide the garage door along the tracks are damaged or worn out, it can cause a grinding noise.
Solution: Inspect the rollers for any signs of damage or wear and replace them if necessary.
Remember, it’s a good idea to schedule an annual inspection of your garage doors and all components. That way, you’ll know that the repairs are done right while also ensuring safety and the optimal performance of your garage door opener.
Basic Garage Door Maintenance
Even the best garage door openers will wear out eventually. However, you can ensure that your will remain functional and safe throughout its functional life by performing routine maintenance and repair.
Following this simple checklist of proper garage door maintenance will protect your investment and prevent serious problems:
1. Lubricate movable parts regularly with a silicone-based product. This includes the garage door opener, rollers, hinges, tracks, and springs. Doing so helps reduce friction, prevents excessive wear, and keeps the door operating smoothly. Avoid using WD-40 or grease because those products can attract dirt and debris.
2. Periodically inspect and tighten all hardware. Vibration from garage door movement can cause nuts, bolts, and screws to loosen over time. Check and tighten all the hardware, including brackets, tracks, and roller hinges, using a properly sized socket wrench or an adjustable wrench. Be careful not to overtighten or you may strip the threads and need to replace the hardware.
3. Check and replace weatherstripping. Weatherstripping along the sides and bottom of the garage door are usually made of runner or plastic, which can dry out and crack or erode over time. Inspect for cracks, wear, or damage and replace it to ensure a proper seal. This will prevent drafts, pests, and debris from entering the garage.
4. Test garage door safety features regularly. This includes testing the auto-reverse mechanism and photoelectric sensors. You can check for proper functioning by placing an object like a small box in the door’s path and trying to close it. If the door doesn’t reverse upon contact or if the sensors aren’t working correctly, contact a professional technician to repair or adjust them.
5. Keep the tracks clean by regularly clearing any debris, dirt, or buildup from the frame, inside and out. This will ensure smooth movement of the garage door and prevent blockages. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the tracks. A damp cloth or soft brush should get the job done.
6. Disconnect the garage door opener by pulling the release handle, then manually lift the door halfway and let go to check the balance. If the door stays in place, it’s good to go. If it falls or rises, that may indicate a balance issue that needs to be addressed by a professional technician.
7. Regularly clean the garage door opener unit itself to remove the dust and dirt that can accumulate over time. Using a soft cloth or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment should keep the opener and its components clean.
Keep in mind that while performing basic maintenance tasks is beneficial, some garage door repairs and adjustments require specialized knowledge and expertise. If you encounter any significant issues or if you’re unsure about performing maintenance tasks, it’s always best to consult a professional technician for assistance.
When It’s Time to Call a Professional
Many home systems simply require routine maintenance to keep them running smoothly and in good repair. However, there are signs that the problem is something that requires attention from a trained technician.
Here are some indications that it’s time to call for professional garage door repair in Visalia:
• Unusual or loud noises. If your garage door starts making unusual or excessively loud noises during operation, such as grinding, scraping, or banging sounds, it’s a good indication that something is wrong.
• Difficulty in opening or closing. If you notice that your garage door is struggling to open or close smoothly, gets stuck, or moves unevenly, it could be a sign of a mechanical problem.
• Damaged or broken components. If you can see any damaged or broken components on your garage door, it’s crucial to seek professional assistance. These parts play a crucial role in the safe and efficient operation of the door, and attempting to repair them yourself can be dangerous.
• Inconsistent or erratic behavior. If your garage door behaves inconsistently or the opener stops working properly, it’s a clear indication of a problem. A professional technician can diagnose the underlying issue and provide the appropriate solution.
Keep in mind that garage doors can be complex, potentially hazardous systems, and attempting to fix the problem yourself could make the situation worse. It could even lead to injury.
Contacting an experienced technician is always the best solution when you’re unsure about the problem or you lack the necessary expertise and tools to safely complete the repairs. Professional garage repair techs have the knowledge to properly diagnose and the equipment to easily resolve problems with garage door openers.
Professional Garage Door Repair in Visalia
Garage doors offer a simple solution for securing vehicles while providing extra storage. However, a problem with your garage door opener often requires expert attention.
Don’t take chances with your garage accessibility or personal safety. Contact a garage door repair technician for a professional assessment and solution.
