A functional garage door adds curb appeal and increases the value of your property. Moreover, your garage door protects your vehicles and other valuable items from the elements and potential intruders.
As such, you cannot afford to have your garage door fail as that may compromise the security of your home. Unfortunately, even the best-built garage doors may malfunction from time to time. One common problem you may experience with your garage door is spontaneous opening and closing. Discover the reasons your garage door may open or close by itself.
The Safety Sensor Is Blocked
The safety sensor detects objects in the garage door’s path and signals the opener to stop and reverse the door. However, the sensor is prone to blockage from dirt, dust, and debris. If the sensor is blocked, the blockage may give a false signal that an object is in the way, which causes the door to reverse. In the same way, the sensor may activate if you have items stacked too close to the door.
To fix this issue, clean the sensors and move stacked items away from the door. If nothing changes, then faulty wires may be the culprit. Check if the wires between the garage door opener and the sensors are damaged. Also, confirm that the sensors are not misaligned. Only do this yourself if you feel comfortable doing so.
The Springs Are Damaged
Your garage door uses springs to open and close. The tension in the springs balances the weight of your door, making it easy for you to open and close the door. However, if the springs sustain damage, they will no longer be able to provide the tension required to open or close the door. The issue often results in the door falling or getting stuck in one position. Sometimes, you may hear a loud noise when you close the door.
To fix this problem, you need to replace the damaged springs with new ones. This job is best left to professionals as they have the tools and experience to do the job safely.
The Opener Button Is Malfunctioning
The opener button activates the opener to open or close the door. If the opener button malfunctions, the opener may open or close the door without being commanded to do so.
The opener button fails primarily due to dirt and grime. However, the remote button may also get stuck in the depressed position, which will cause the door to open or close until you fix the button. To solve this issue, clean the button to eliminate debris buildup. If the problem doesn’t disappear, you may need to consult a professional for opener repair or replacement.
The Transformer and Controlling Circuit Board Have Issues
The transformer steps down the voltage from your home’s power source to a safe level for the opener. The circuit board controls the opener’s different functions. If either of these components fails, the garage door may open or close by itself.
The transformer and controlling circuit board are among the components that are best left to professionals for diagnosis and repairs. Therefore, if you suspect these two components are the culprit of the malfunctioning garage door, call a professional for help.
You may fix some issues that cause the garage door to open by itself, such as a dirty button or safety sensor. However, some repairs, such as fixing the springs or the circuit board, require the help of a professional. In such cases, don’t hesitate to contact us at AA Garage Door for assistance. We offer extensive garage door services, including installation, repair, and maintenance, so you can trust us to resolve your garage door issues.