Your garage door is a critical part of your home’s setup, offering both functionality and curb appeal to your property. When it starts acting up, however, you might be wondering what is behind the trouble. Here are a few of the most common reasons your garage door might not be working.

What Are the Most Common Issues With Your Garage Door?

1. Dead Batteries

One of the most common and easiest troubles to fix is a battery issue. Whether it’s the remote or transmitter, dead or improperly inserted batteries will stop your garage door from operating. This can easily be fixed at home by inserting new batteries into the device.

2. Misaligned Photo Eye

If your door closes but then quickly reopens, the photo eye might be misaligned. These small plastic devices are a critical safety feature on both sides of the garage door and will usually flash green when working correctly. First, check that no grime or debris is interfering with the eye. If the device is clean, you will have to hire a professional to realign it.

3. Obstruction in Door Line

Make sure nothing inside or outside is interfering with the garage door’s operation. Toys, rocks, and garbage can obstruct the door from opening and closing properly. Safety features built into the door will stop its function if they detect anything in the way. 

4. Broken Garage Door Springs

When your garage door opens a little but closes almost immediately, the springs at the top need to be replaced. In older doors, the whole spring system might be failing, but if your door is newer or you have recently had the springs repaired, you might only need to change out the broken sections. It’s best to leave this work to the experts, as the springs could snap and cause the heavy door to come crashing down.

5. Malfunctioning Garage Door Opener

In most cases, chain or drive-screw garage door openers only need a little lubrication to begin working again. When there is too much friction, these components cannot perform their duties. A professional can easily check your system and lubricate all of the parts that are creating the issue. 

When you need help with your home’s garage door, call the professionals at Southside Garage Door. Located in Rosemount, MN, their team brings more than 25 years of expertise to the Greater Minneapolis area. As a certified dealer for North Central^™, Ideal^®, Safe-Way^™, LiftMaster^®, and Chamberlin^®, they guarantee top quality and reliability for your custom garage doors. To request a free estimate, visit them online, or call (651) 423-7444 to learn more about their services.