Garage Door Opener Safety Tips
Automatic garage door openers enhance a home’s appearance and market value while providing convenience and comfort.
Automatic garage door openers enhance a home’s appearance and market value while providing convenience and comfort. However, because these doors are automated and often the largest moving part of a house, they can pose serious risks. An old, improperly installed, or damaged garage door can injure, trap, or even cause fatal accidents. Fortunately, there are several precautionary measures that help improve safety, including:
Choosing an opener that meets modern safety standards
Performing regular testing and maintenance
Practicing caution and common sense when handling the door
Installing an Opener That Meets Safety Standards
Due to the number of accidents involving automatic garage doors, the Consumer Product Safety Commission mandated that all garage door openers manufactured after January 1, 1993, include an external entrapment protection system. Any doors without a safety reverse feature should be replaced with modern versions. This system typically consists of either an electric eye or a door edge sensor.
The electric eye uses photoelectric sensors positioned on both sides of the garage door opener, typically four to six inches off the ground. This placement ensures that small children cannot crawl underneath the invisible sensor beam. If the beam detects an object in its path, the door automatically reverses, preventing injury or damage.
A door edge sensor, mounted along the bottom edge of the door, functions similarly. It detects pressure from an obstruction and immediately stops and reverses the door.
These safety features help prevent personal injury and property damage if the opener malfunctions. However, simply purchasing a compliant garage door opener isn’t enough. Proper installation of the reverse-on-obstruction feature is essential. The door’s travel should be adjusted so that the weather strip at the bottom compresses slightly but is not crushed. When fully open, the arm bracket should stop without hitting the opener or its protective bracket. A reputable garage door technician can ensure correct installation.
Testing and Maintaining the Garage Door and Opener
Even a well-installed garage door can develop issues over time from frequent use and exposure to the elements. Periodic testing and routine maintenance help keep both the door and the opener functioning properly. Most door models come with a care and maintenance guide for reference.
Garage Door Opener Maintenance
Reversal Test: Open the door and place a roll of paper towels or a 2 “x4” block of wood on the ground where the door closes. Press the wall or transmitter button to close the door; it should reverse immediately upon contact with the object. If it does not, adjustments or a replacement may be needed.
Force Setting Test: While the door is closing, apply light resistance to the bottom edge. If it does not reverse on its own, adjustments are necessary.
Additional Safety Devices: If the garage door has an edge or photo eye sensor, ensure these safety features are properly installed and functioning.
Garage Door Maintenance
Homeowners should hire a professional garage door technician for maintenance services, but there are few things the homeowner can do between service calls.
Visual Inspection: Each month, check the rollers, track, springs, pulleys, and cables for signs of wear or damage. If anything appears off, contact a qualified technician. Garage door components are under high tension and may cause injury if handled improperly.
Lubrication: Moving parts require lubrication for smooth operation. Apply a silicone-based lubricant or light oil, but avoid using oil on plastic rollers or idler bearings.
Door Balance: To test balance, close the door and use the release mechanism to switch to manual operation. Lift the door about halfway and let go. If it moves up or down on its own, an adjustment is needed. If it remains steady and moves smoothly along the track, it is properly balanced.
Practicing Common Sense and Caution
One of the most effective ways to stay safe around garage doors is to use caution and follow basic safety guidelines.
Never walk under a moving door or attempt to rush through before it closes. Wait until it is fully open and motionless before passing through or standing nearby.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for operation and maintenance. The opener should be plugged directly into a power source, not an extension cord or secondary electrical fixture. If an issue arises, contact a professional rather than attempting repairs without experience.
Keep remote controls and transmitters out of reach of children and away from moving parts.
Familiarize yourself with the emergency release feature, which disconnects the opener and allows manual operation in case of a power outage or malfunction.
Garage door openers add convenience and functionality to a home, but they must be used and maintained with safety in mind. By installing a compliant opener, performing regular maintenance, and exercising caution, homeowners can enjoy the benefits of an automated garage door without unnecessary risks.
Pinnacle Garage Door and Repair provides new garage door installation, custom garage door design, garage door replacement, repairs, openers, track repair, cable repair, spring replacement, and garage door maintenance throughout the Phoenix metro area and Maricopa County. Emergency service is available.
