Garage door safety plays an important part in safeguarding your property and protecting the well-being of your household.

Your garage door serves as an entry to your home, providing both convenience and security. However, without proper care and attention, it can become a potential hazard. Neglecting garage door safety may lead to accidents, injuries or costly repairs.

Let’s look at some essential safety tips to keep your garage door functioning and secure.

Regular Inspections and Servicing for Garage Door Safety

Regular inspections and servicing of your garage door are essential to maintain safe and efficient operation. Neglecting maintenance can lead to malfunctions and potential hazards.

Here are some key aspects to keep an eye on:

  • Watch and Listen to the Door While It’s Moving

Pay attention to your garage door as it opens and closes. It should move smoothly and without any unusual noises. If you notice any jerking, grinding or scraping sounds, it could indicate a problem that needs immediate attention. These noises may be a sign of misalignment or worn-out components.

  • Check to Make Sure the Door Is Balanced

A balanced garage door is essential for safe operation. An unbalanced door can put undue strain on the opener and cause it to fail prematurely. To check the balance, disconnect the opener and manually lift the door halfway. If it stays in place, it’s balanced. If it falls or rises, it’s imbalanced, and you should call a professional technician to adjust it.

  • Check the Springs

The springs of your garage door play a critical role in its operation. Inspect them for signs of wear or damage, such as rust, gaps, or visible wear and tear. If you notice any issues with the springs, do not attempt to replace or repair them yourself. Garage door springs are under high tension and can be dangerous to work on without the proper tools and knowledge.

  • Clean the Tracks

The tracks on which your garage door rollers move should be kept clean and free from debris. Dirt, leaves or other obstructions can impede the smooth operation of the door. Regularly clean the tracks with a stiff brush and remove any accumulated debris.

  • Remove Any Rust

Rust can weaken the structural integrity of your garage door components. Inspect the door and its hardware for signs of rust, especially on metal parts like springs, cables and tracks. If you find rust, take steps to remove it and consider applying a rust-resistant coating to prevent further corrosion.

  • Replace the Weather Seal

The weather seal at the bottom of your garage door serves to keep out moisture, debris and pests. Over time, it may become worn or damaged. Inspect the seal and replace it if necessary to maintain the integrity of your garage’s environment.

  • Replace the Batteries in the Remote

A simple yet often overlooked safety tip is to regularly replace the batteries in your garage door remote. Weak or dead batteries can lead to unreliable operation, which may result in accidents or security issues.

Learn the Safety Features of Your Automated Garage Door

Modern automated garage doors come equipped with a range of safety features designed to protect you from accidents. Familiarise yourself with these features to ensure their proper functioning:

  • Safety Sensors: Most garage doors are equipped with safety sensors located near the bottom of the door tracks. These sensors detect any obstructions in the door’s path and automatically reverse its direction to prevent accidents. Regularly inspect and clean these sensors to ensure they work correctly.
  • Emergency Release: Your garage door opener should have an emergency release cord. In case of a power outage or malfunction, pulling this cord disengages the opener, allowing you to manually open and close the door. Learn how to use this feature in case of emergencies.

garage door safety, lubricating auto door chain mechanism, maintenance

Test the Auto Reverse Safety Feature

To test the auto-reverse safety feature of your garage door, place a small object, such as a piece of wood or a roll of paper towels, in the path of the closing door. When the door contacts the object, it should immediately reverse direction and open. If it fails this test, contact a technician to inspect and repair the safety sensors and auto-reverse mechanism.

Read Your Instruction Manual

Your garage door opener’s instruction manual contains valuable information about its operation, maintenance and safety features. Take the time to read and understand the manual thoroughly. It will provide you with insights on how to troubleshoot common issues and ensure the safe use of your garage door.

Never Leave Your Garage Door Partially Open

Leaving your garage door partially open, even for a short period, can pose a security risk and increase the chances of accidents. Always ensure that your garage door is fully closed when not in use. Teach children about the potential dangers of standing under a closing garage door.

Don’t Fix Cables and Springs on Your Own

Garage door cables and springs are under extreme tension and can be hazardous if mishandled. If you notice any issues with these components, such as fraying cables or damaged springs, do not attempt to repair them yourself. Contact a qualified garage door technician to assess and address the problem.

Keep Your Garage Door Remote Secure

Your garage door remote control should be treated with the same level of security as your house keys. Do not leave it in your car where it might be accessible to potential thieves. Keep it in your possession or in a secure location within your home to prevent unauthorised access to your garage.

Unplug Your Garage Door When Away for Extended Periods

If you plan to be away from home for an extended period, such as on holidays, consider unplugging the garage door opener or disabling it. This precaution can prevent accidental activations and enhance the security of your home while you are away.

Consult a Professional Garage Door Technician

Garage door safety is important for the well-being of your family and to maintain the longevity of your garage door. Regular inspections, understanding the features of your automated garage door, and following safe operation guidelines are key to preventing accidents and costly repairs.

If you need assistance, consult our professional garage door technicians at Pinnacle Garage Doors for expert guidance and maintenance.