Welcome to the Overhead Door of Akron blog! In this post, we will be discussing a crucial topic for homeowners – emergency preparedness when it comes to garage doors. As a leading provider of garage door services in the greater Akron, Canton, and Cleveland areas, we understand the importance of being prepared for any situation that may arise with your garage door.
A malfunctioning garage door can happen at any time, day or night, and can be a major inconvenience and safety hazard. That’s why it’s essential to have a plan in place in case your garage door malfunctions unexpectedly. In this blog, we will go over some steps you can take to ensure that you are prepared for a garage door emergency.
Causes of Garage Door Malfunction
Before diving into what to do in case of a malfunction, it’s essential to understand some common causes of garage door malfunctions. Here are a few potential reasons your garage door may not be functioning correctly:
- Broken Springs – The springs on your garage door are responsible for counterbalancing the weight of the door, making it easier to open and close. However, constant use and wear can cause these springs to break, leading to a malfunctioning door.
- Misaligned Tracks – The tracks that guide your garage door up and down need to be correctly aligned for smooth operation. If they become bent or misaligned, it can cause the door to come off track or get stuck.
- Sensor Issues – Modern garage doors have safety sensors that detect objects in the door’s path and prevent it from closing. If these sensors become blocked or malfunction, they can cause your garage door to stop functioning properly.
- Power Outages – In the event of a power outage, your garage door opener may not work, leaving you unable to open or close your garage door.
These are just a few possible reasons for a garage door malfunction, but the best way to determine the cause is to have a professional garage door technician inspect and diagnose the issue.
Importance of Emergency Preparedness
Having an emergency plan in place for your garage door may seem unnecessary, but it can make all the difference in a potentially dangerous situation. Here are some reasons why being prepared is crucial:
- Safety: A malfunctioning garage door can pose significant safety risks, especially if there are obstructions in its path. Having a plan in place can help prevent accidents or injuries.
- Security: A broken garage door leaves your home vulnerable to intruders. Knowing how to handle a malfunction can ensure your home stays secure until the issue can be resolved.
- Peace of Mind: Having a plan for emergencies can give you peace of mind, knowing that you and your family are prepared for unexpected situations.
What to Do If Your Garage Door Malfunctions
Stay calm and assess the situation.
The first thing to do when your garage door malfunctions is to remain calm and carefully assess the situation. Determine if there are any visible damages or obvious reasons for the malfunction, such as a snapped spring or loose cable. If you can’t identify the issue, it’s best not to attempt any repairs on your own.
Check for safety features.
Most modern garage doors come equipped with safety features, such as sensors that detect any obstructions in the door’s path and automatically reverse its movement. Make sure these sensors are clean and properly aligned. Additionally, check if there is an emergency release cord that allows you to manually open and close the door.
Do not attempt to fix the issue yourself.
Garage doors are complex systems, and attempting to fix them without proper knowledge and tools can be dangerous. Avoid trying to repair any damages or malfunctions on your own, as this may cause further damage or harm to yourself.
Call a professional garage door technician.
The best course of action when dealing with a malfunctioning garage door is to call a professional technician right away. A trained and experienced technician will be able to diagnose the issue accurately and safely and make necessary repairs or replacements. At Overhead Door of Akron, our technicians are available 24/7 for emergency repairs, so you can rely on us whenever you need us.
Take preventative measures for the future.
Once your garage door is back in working condition, it’s important to take preventive measures to avoid similar issues in the future. This includes regular maintenance and inspections by a professional technician, as well as keeping the tracks clean and free of debris.
Emergency Preparedness Tips for Your Garage Door
In addition to knowing what to do in case of a malfunction, there are some steps you can take to be better prepared for emergencies involving your garage door. These include:
- Keep an emergency release tool handy: In case of power outages or other emergencies, it’s always a good idea to have an emergency release tool on hand that will allow you to manually open and close your garage door.
- Test the safety features regularly: It’s important to test the sensors and emergency release cord on a regular basis to ensure they are functioning properly. This will also help you identify any potential issues before they become major problems.
- Have a professional inspection annually: Regular maintenance and inspections by a professional technician can catch any minor issues before they turn into major malfunctions. Make sure to schedule an annual maintenance check for your garage door.
- Familiarize Yourself with Your Garage Door Opener: Take some time to read through the manual for your specific garage door opener. Familiarize yourself with the emergency release feature and how to operate it in case of a power outage.
Conclusion
Being prepared for emergencies involving your garage door is crucial for the safety and functionality of your home. By following these tips, you can be better equipped to handle unexpected malfunctions and take preventative measures for the future. Remember, if you ever encounter a garage door emergency, don’t hesitate to call Overhead Door of Akron at 330-929-3452. We are here to help keep your garage door running smoothly and safely.
