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How to Maintain a Garage Door Opener

Extend the life of your garage door opener by conducting regular maintenance and checks. An opener has both mechanical and electrical parts that could use a little maintenance and care. Always be sure the power is off before making any adjustments. Speaking of electricity, the first thing to check if an opener doesn't work is the power supply. Is it plugged in? Are electrical wires loose or disconnected? Lots of household fix-its are just that easy.

Skill Level: Beginner
Time:
  1. Step 1 Adjust Chain Tension

    Adjust Chain Tension.

    Eliminate a sagging chain by adjusting the chain tension. If the chain sags more than 1/2 inch below the rail, it may bang against the rail and cause undue wear on the drive sprocket. Tighten the chain until it rests 1/2 inch above the base of the rail, but be careful not to over tighten.

  2. Step 2 Adjust Limit Screws

    Adjust Limit Screws.

    A door that fails to open fully can be fixed by adjusting the limit screws. Unplug the opener and locate the up-limit adjustment screw on the power unit. Turn the screw clockwise. Plug in the opener, run it through a cycle, and see if you need to adjust it more.

  3. Step 3 Align Sensors Correctly

    Align Sensors Correctly.

    Safety-reversing sensors are those two little light-beam devices near the bottom of the door. If something breaks the beam while the door is closing, the sensor reverses the door. Sometimes, the beams can get out of alignment. Make sure the sensors face each other across the garage door opening in order to function properly.

  4. Step 4 Clean and Lubricate

    Clean and Lubricate.

    Clean and lubricate the drive chain and track of the automatic-door opener once or twice a year. Use a light penetrating oil instead of grease to keep from collecting dirt and grit.

Your Location

Your garage door installation cost may vary from one region to the next based on local material, distribution and labour costs, as well as travel distance for the Installer.

What You Need for This Project

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