Having a garage door that isn't working properly is more than an inconvenience. It's a safety hazard. If the door doesn't close all the way, someone could get hurt. And if it won't open at all, you'll be stuck outside with no way to get back in.
Here are four signs that you need new garage door motors.
1. You Have A Noisy Garage Door
A noisy door is one of the most common problems with garage doors. It can be caused by many things, including damaged rollers and springs, loose tracks or hinges, and bad bearings. But even if you fix all of these things, you still may have to replace the motor. Old or failing motors can grind, squeal and rattle, even after other repairs. This is because the internal components of the motor itself, like the bearings, shafts and gears, have broken down or worn out over time and through frequent use. If your garage door motors continue making excessive noise after servicing the other hardware, it likely means the motor needs replacement to restore quiet operation and ensure proper function.
2. Your Garage Door Motors Are Slow To Respond
If your garage doors seem sluggish and slow to open or close, the motors are likely losing power or torque over time. Standard garage doors should open or close in a matter of seconds for most residential homes. If it's taking significantly longer for your doors to open or close completely, the motors are working much harder than intended and will continue deteriorating. Slow operation means the motors struggle to lift and move the doors effectively anymore. They have to run well past their normal duty cycle, which will cause them to burn out at an accelerated pace.
3. The Door Does Not Open Or Close Smoothly
If your garage door is not opening and closing smoothly, this could be a sign that there is something wrong with the motor. If you notice that the door drags or jerks when it opens or closes, talk to an expert about replacing your garage door motor. A properly functioning motor will move the door at a steady pace, raising and lowering it evenly on its tracks.
4. Your Door Doesn't Stay Up When You Let Go Of The Button
If your garage door opens but then starts closing again immediately after releasing the wall button or remote control, the motor needs replacement. Properly functioning motors should sustain operating the door at whatever position you leave it. Motors contain mechanisms that essentially "hold" the door in place at the desired open or closed position. If the motor can no longer do this, the components inside have broken down over time and use.
If you notice the above signs, chat with an expert about new garage door motors today.
