Hello, fellow homeowners! If you’ve ever wondered, “How do you know if a garage door motor is bad?” you’re in the right place. Your garage door might seem like a silent hero, quietly doing its job day in and day out. But what happens when it’s not so silent anymore? There is nothing to be worried about; we are here to help you cope with the issue.
In this write-up, we’ll showcase the telltale signs that your garage door motor might be acting up and what you can do about it.
Let’s get started.
How Do You Know If Garage Door Motor is Bad?
Your garage door motor is an important part of your home, and it’s important to keep it in good working order. But as a homeowner, a common question constantly runs on your head, “How do I know if my garage door opener motor is bad?”
Here are a few signs of a bad garage door motor:
The Silent Treatment
One of the first signs that your garage door motor might not be working right is when it goes all quiet. So, if you press the button on your remote or the wall, and your garage door doesn’t make a peep, it could mean that the motor is acting up. But don’t panic just yet; there might be an easy fix. Just make sure to check if the opener is plugged in and see if the circuit breaker hasn’t switched off.
Sluggish Movements
Is your garage door moving in slow motion lately? If it’s taking longer than usual to open or close, it’s a sign that your motor might be struggling. The motor provides the power to lift the heavy door, so if it’s not up to the task, it could be a bad motor.
Unusual Noises
Listen closely! Your garage door motor should run relatively quietly. If you start hearing strange, grinding, or screeching noises when the door is in motion, it’s a red flag. These odd sounds could indicate that something’s wrong with the motor or the gears.
Inconsistent Operation
Does your garage door work some days and not others? Or maybe it gets stuck halfway up? Inconsistent operation can be a sign of a motor issue. It might be working hard one day and taking a break the next. This inconsistency can be a headache.
Age Matters
Like everything else in life, garage door motors have a lifespan. On average, they can sustain anywhere from 10 to 15 years, based on usage and maintenance. If your motor has been around for quite a while and you’re experiencing problems, it might be time to consider a replacement.
So, What Can You Do?
Now, what should you do if you’ve seen these signs? Well, here are your options:
Check and Maintain Regularly
Keep an eye on your garage door system. Oil the moving parts, tighten any loose bolts, and look at the cables to make sure they’re not fraying. Doing this regularly can help your motor last longer.
Get a Pro’s Help
If you’re not into fixing things yourself or if the issues keep happening, it’s a good idea to call a professional garage door expert. They can figure out what’s wrong and tell you the best way to fix it.
Think About Replacing
If your motor is really old and has lots of problems, it might be smarter and cheaper to get a new one that works better.
How to Prevent Garage Door Motor Problems
Here are some easy tips to help you prevent problems with your garage door motor:
Keep It Lubricated
Apply some lubricant to the moving parts of your garage door from time to time. This helps them move smoothly and reduces wear and tear. Remember, avoid WD-40 or grease as they attract dirt.
Tighten Things Up
Check closely for any loose bolts or screws on your garage door and opener. If you find any, just give them a little turn to make sure everything stays tight.
Inspect Those Cables
Take a look at the cables that help your garage door move. If they look frayed or damaged, it’s a sign they need some attention.
Clean Those Tracks
Make sure the tracks that guide your garage door are free from dirt and debris. Clean tracks mean your door can open and close without any issues.
Test Safety Features
Your garage door has safety features like sensors. To make sure they’re working, place an object in the door’s path and check if it stops when it should.
Listen for Odd Noises
Pay attention to any unusual sounds when your garage door is in motion. If you hear something strange, take a closer look to see what might be causing it.
Replace Worn-out Parts
If you notice any parts that are showing signs of wear and tear, like rusty springs or damaged cables, it’s a good idea to replace them quickly.
If your garage door spring is broken and you want to replace it, take a look at our blog on how to replace a broken garage door spring.
Professional Check-ups
Consider having a professional garage door technician inspect your system regularly. They can spot and fix issues before they become major headaches.
Having issues with your Garage Door Opener in Aurora? Pop’s Garage Door LLC is always available for you. We’re your trusted professionals for all things Garage Door Opener in Aurora, CO. Our experienced technicians make sure everything goes smoothly from installation to maintenance and replacement. We give high-quality products, efficient installation, customization and competitive pricing. On top of that, safety is our top priority, making your garage door opening safe.
Wrapping Up
Knowing “how do you know if the garage door motor is bad” is key to keeping your garage door running smoothly. Remember, if you spot any signs like strange noises, sluggish movements, or your door refusing to budge, it’s time to take action. Don’t forget the easy fixes, like checking if it’s plugged in or if the circuit breaker’s fine. And if all else fails, don’t hesitate to call a pro for help. With a little care and attention, your garage door will be back to its reliable self in no time!
FAQs
How long do garage door motors last?
The life expectancy of a garage door motor is around 10 to 15 years, but regular maintenance can help extend their lifespan.
What are the signs your garage door opener needs to be replaced?
You might need a new garage door opener if it’s slow, unresponsive, or visibly worn out. Upgrading can make your garage door work better and last longer.
Can I Repair a Bad Garage Door Motor?
Sometimes, you can fix a bad garage door motor, but it might not last long. If it’s too damaged, you’ll have to swap it out for a new one.
