No matter what steps you take to maintain your garage door opener, there will come a time that the device will have to be replaced. When to do that though can be the question. That is why you should also be on the lookout for any signs that your garage door opener is damaged or nearing the end of its lifespan.
The Motor Is Over a Decade Old
A well-maintained garage door can last for quite some time, but many of the moving parts must be replaced at regular intervals. That includes the garage door motor, a piece of equipment that typically lasts for 10 or 15 years. After a decade, the outdated garage door opener is going to become less efficient and potentially cause damage to the other components.
The Door Works Intermittently
There are a few different areas that you will need to check if your garage door occasionally doesn’t work. The sensors often become blocked or bent, and that can lead to a garage door that constantly opens back up when you close it. If the sensors are adjusted properly and the garage door is still working intermittently, then it is time to have a contractor take a look at the garage door opener.
Loud Noises
Residential garage door openers are always going to be somewhat noisy, but the noises should remain at the same level for quite a few years. When your garage door makes loud popping or screeching noises as it opens, you should contact a contractor who can inspect the entire system for any signs of damage. As long as you address the unusual noises right away, you might be able to fix the issue with nothing more than some additional lube or adjustments to the tracks.
Slow Movement
Garage doors tend to open and close slowly, but you might notice that the door becomes extremely sluggish as time goes on. Preventative maintenance should help with that problem, but there will come a point when the motor needs to be upgraded. Slow movements can be caused by a dying garage door opener that has stripped gears or other worn-out parts that are beginning to fail.
Even though it might be tempting to replace your garage door opener on your own, that type of equipment is very dangerous to work on. Homeowners should always hire a certified and insured contractor who knows how to quickly and safely install a garage door opener without damaging any of the other key components of the door, tracks, or the electrical wiring in your house overall.
