On average, your garage door opens and closes 1500 times a year. With all that heavy lifting, chances are, something could go wrong. A garage door that won’t open can be incredibly frustrating and inconvenient. Knowing the common causes of a malfunctioning garage door will help you identify and fix the issue quickly and easily. Here are some potential reasons why your garage door isn’t opening.

1. Broken or Old Door Springs

Garage door springs are responsible for lifting the weight of the door and allowing it to move up and down smoothly. If they become worn out or are broken, then the door will not be able to move properly and may not open at all. Broken or old springs can also be dangerous, so it’s important to have them replaced as soon as possible.

2. Worn Rollers or Bearings

Rollers and bearings help guide the movement of the door as it opens and closes. Over time, these components can become worn or damaged, resulting in the door not being able to move smoothly. If this is the case, you may need to replace them in order to get your door back up and running again.

3. Obstructed Photo Eye Sensors

Photo eye sensors on your garage door are designed to detect when something is blocking its path as it moves up or down. If these sensors are blocked or damaged, then the door may not be able to open. Cleaning these sensors regularly can help prevent this problem from occurring in the first place, but if you do find yourself in this situation, removing whatever is obstructing them should solve the problem quickly and easily.

4. Faulty Remote Control

Modern garage door openers come with a remote control that allows you to open and close the door from afar. If this remote stops working, then it can prevent you from being able to open the door. Check the batteries in your remote and make sure they are still working. If they aren’t, replace them and see if that remedies the problem.

5. Loose or Broken Cables

Cables connect the motor to the door and help it open and close. It’s important to inspect these cables regularly to make sure they are in good condition, as replacing them requires a bit more effort and skill. If your cables appear to be loose or broken, contact a professional for help getting them fixed.

Get Your Garage Door Working Again

Dealing with a malfunctioning garage door can be incredibly frustrating. But understanding what some of the most common causes behind these issues are can make troubleshooting them much easier. At RKS Garage Doors, we understand the importance of making sure your door is operating properly, which is why we offer fast and reliable garage door service or repair. Get in touch with us today for a free estimate.