Garage door openers are a true modern convenience. Before this technology, drivers had to stop, place their car in park, exit the vehicle, and manually open the overhead door to enter or exit the garage. The process was inconvenient, especially if it had to be done multiple times a day. Below is a look at how garage door openers work and what kind of issues can arise with these systems.

How Do Garage Door Openers Work?

The Operator

The operator is a one-half horsepower motor that runs on household alternating current electricity. The motor turns a screw that winds a drum to raise and lower the door using cables. It responds to radio waves so drivers can operate the opener remotely. Some systems can even function using Bluetooth® or internet signals.

Drums & Cables

The drum winds and unwinds a series of cables connected to the door panels. The door travels on rollers along a curved track mounted to either side of the doorway. The heavier the door, the more imperative it is to have a large drum and sturdy cables to safely support its weight.

Torsion Springs

The torsion spring also helps support the weight of a heavy door. These turn or tighten as the door lowers, relieving some of the burden from the lift cables. This enables the opener to use a smaller motor that is less powerful, noisy, or expensive.

A torsion spring can break after years of use. If this happens, you’ll hear a loud bang, and the door will be more difficult to manually open or close. To extend the life of this component, ensure the spring is rust-free by lubricating it occasionally and keeping it clean and dry.

The Remote

The remote control is a battery-operated device that sends a radio signal to the receiver within the operator module. When the receiver captures the signal, the operator engages, turns the motor, and raises or lowers the door. If your remote is not working, try replacing the batteries.

Safety Sensors

Two photo-eye sensors are mounted to the walls near the ground on either side of the doorway. They shine an infrared beam across the base of the opening, and as long as the beam is intact, the door operates normally.

However, if something obstructs the beam, such as a vehicle, person, or pet, the door remains open until the obstruction is removed. The sensors can be bumped out of alignment, causing operational problems. If the door is not working properly, check for unexpected obstructions, and make sure the sensors are properly in line.

 

If you need to buy a new garage door or service an existing one, turn to Southside Garage Door Co. in Rosemount, MN. This company has served Dakota County and the South Metro area for more than 25 years. They specialize in garage door installation and overhead door repair, including spring replacement and opener service. Read testimonials from satisfied customers on their website, or call (651) 423-7444 to schedule a consultation.