It’s frustrating to have a malfunctioning garage door, especially when you’re in a hurry to leave the house or store something in the garage. If your garage door won’t close, don’t panic just yet. Here are some troubleshooting tips to help you solve the problem:
1. Check the photo-eye sensors
The most common reason why a garage door won’t close is that the photo-eye sensors are misaligned or obstructed. These sensors are located on either side of the garage door, about 4-6 inches from the floor. They send and receive infrared signals to each other, and if something blocks these signals, the garage door won’t close.
To troubleshoot this issue, first, make sure that nothing is blocking the sensors. Clear any debris or objects that may be in the way. Then, check if the sensors are aligned. They should be facing each other and their lights should be on. If the lights are off or blinking, adjust the sensors until they align properly. They usually use a wingnut to secure them to the bracket that is finger-tight so they can easily be adjusted.
2. Assess the tracks and rollers
Another reason why a garage door won’t close is due to damaged tracks or rollers. Check the tracks for any dents or obstructions. If there are any, use a rubber mallet or a hammer and a block of wood to straighten them out.
Next, inspect the rollers. They should roll smoothly and freely along the tracks. If they’re worn out or damaged, replace them with new ones.
3. Verify the garage door opener
If the photo-eye sensors and the tracks/rollers are in good condition, the next thing to check is the garage door opener. Make sure that it’s plugged in and that there’s power going to it.
If the opener is functioning correctly, try resetting it by disconnecting the power for about 30 seconds, then reconnecting it. This sometimes clears up issues with the opener’s sensors or programming.
4. Call in a professional
If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting tips mentioned above and your garage door still won’t close, it’s time to call in a professional. A certified garage door technician can diagnose and fix the problem quickly and efficiently, ensuring that your garage door is safe to use and functioning correctly.
In conclusion, a garage door that won’t close can be a frustrating problem, but with these troubleshooting tips, you can identify and solve the issue in most cases. Remember to always prioritize your safety when dealing with garage door issues and don’t hesitate to call in a professional if you need assistance.