by Opening a garage door with a broken spring can be a challenging and potentially dangerous task. Springs are the main and essential component of any garage door, as they help to lift and lower the heavy weight of the door. When a spring breaks, it can leave your garage door stuck and unable to open.
This can be frustrating, especially if you need to get your car out or access items inside your garage. In this guide, we will discuss step-by-step guide and maintenance tips on how to open a garage door with a broken spring safely and effectively.
What happens when a Garage Door Spring Breaks?
Before we go to the steps of opening a garage door with a broken spring, it’s important to understand what happens when a garage door spring breaks. The springs are responsible for counterbalancing the weight of the garage door, which can weigh hundreds of pounds. When one spring breaks, it creates an imbalance and puts excessive strain on the remaining spring. This can cause serious damage to your garage door opener, tracks, and even the door itself.
Will a Garage Door Operate with a Broken Spring?
A garage door can still be opened if a spring is broken, but it requires considerable manual effort. Using the garage door opener in this state is not advisable, as the added weight can cause the motor to overheat and burn out. It’s generally recommended not to attempt opening the door with a broken spring due to the potential risks.
However, if you absolutely must open the door to retrieve a car, follow these precautions to ensure your safety: protect your back by using proper lifting techniques, keep your fingers away from the door’s pinch points, and ensure your feet are clear of the door’s path.
Lift the door from the center to maintain balance and avoid bending the door panels by pushing or pulling on them. The door will not stay open without support, so keep it level as you raise it and close it immediately after moving your car out.
Supplies needed:
- Pliers
- Winding bars
- Clamps
- Replacement spring (if needed)
Step-by-Step Guide to Opening a Garage Door with a Broken Spring
Step 1: Secure the Door
Before trying to open a storage door with a damaged spring, it is essential to secure the door in the area. Use clamps or pliers to keep the door closed and save you it from falling at the same time as you work on it.
Step 2: Disconnect the Opener
If your garage door has an automatic opener, disconnect it by pulling on the manual release handle. This will prevent the opener from trying to lift the door and causing further damage.
Step 3: Identify the Broken Spring
Inspect your garage door springs carefully to determine which one is broken. If both springs are damaged, it’s best to call a professional for assistance as attempting to open or repair a double-spring system can be dangerous.
Step 4: Release Tension
Using the winding bars, release tension from the broken spring by turning it in a counter-clockwise direction. This will allow you to manually lift the door.
Step 5: Disconnect and Remove the Broken Spring
After this tension has been released, the broken spring can be easily detached from the two brackets using the assistance of pliers.
Step 6: Replace the Spring (if needed)
If you have a replacement spring, put it in the same location as the removed spring and in the proper orientation. It is recommended that you adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the installation of the product.
Step 7: Lift and Secure the Door
Using proper lifting techniques and with assistance, if needed, lift the door manually until it is fully open. Use clamps or pliers to secure the door in place.
Step 8: Reconnect the Opener
Once the door is securely open, reconnect your automatic opener and test it to ensure it’s functioning properly.
Common problems and solutions:
Problem: The door is stuck and cannot be opened even with the steps above.
Solution: If the door is still stuck after following the steps, it’s best to call a professional for assistance. Attempting to force open the door can lead to further damage and potential safety hazards.
Problem: The replacement spring is not the correct size or type.
Solution: It’s crucial to purchase the correct size and type of spring for your door. If the replacement spring does not match the old one, it can cause serious damage or even cause the door to fall.
Maintenance Tips for Garage Door Springs
Here are some useful tips to keep your springs in good condition:
- Regularly inspect the springs for signs of wear and tear, such as rust or cracks.
- Keep the springs lubricated with a silicon-based spray to prevent corrosion and reduce friction.
- Avoid putting excessive strain on your garage door by not overloading it with heavy items.
- Schedule regular tune-ups with a professional garage door technician to ensure all components are working properly.
- Replace both springs at the same time, even if only one is broken. This will help maintain balance and prevent future problems.
Read Also: How to install chamberlain garage door
FAQs:
Is it safe to use the garage door opener with a broken spring?
No, using the garage door opener in this state can cause further damage and is not recommended.
How do you know when it’s time to replace garage door springs?
If you notice any signs of wear or hear unusual sounds when opening or closing your garage door, it’s best to schedule a tune-up with a professional technician to assess the condition of your springs.
How do you lift a garage door without a spring?
Lifting a garage door without a spring is not recommended as it can cause serious injury due to the weight and imbalance of the door. It’s best to always have functioning springs for safe operation.
How to clean garage door?
To clean a garage door you will need following guidelines :
- Bucket of warm water
- Mild detergent or soap
- Soft-bristle brush or sponge
- Garden hose with spray nozzle
- Clean towels or microfiber cloth
Conclusion:
In conclusion, it is possible to open a garage door with a broken spring, but it should be done with caution and only as a temporary solution. It’s important to take proper safety precautions and seek professional assistance for repairs or replacements. To avoid any future complications with your garage door springs, maintenance should be done routinely and any problem that occurs should be addressed immediately. So make sure to follow these tips and guidelines for a safe and functional garage door.
