11 Signs to Call for Emergency Garage Door Repair
You may need an emergency garage door repair if the system is working erratically or not at all. It contains many parts that can wear out or fail suddenly. While sometimes you can schedule service with a garage door company, some warning signs should be addressed immediately. The following symptoms mean your safety and security are at risk, and the situation isn’t as simple as, for example, figuring out how to open a garage door without power.
1. The Door Won’t Fully Open or Close
2. The Garage Door Stops Working
3. Your Garage Door Is Slow
4. The Wall Switch or Remote Stops Working
5. Loud Noise When the System Is Running
6. The Door Vibrates or Shakes
7. A Spring or Cable Fails
8. The Door Is Off-Balance
9. There Is Visible Damage
10. The Door Goes Off Its Tracks
11. Your Energy Bill Spikes
1. The Door Won’t Fully Open or Close
If the garage door won’t open or close all the way, the problem can be caused by a malfunctioning photo-eye sensor (a key safety feature). Or, a cable or spring may have failed or be about to break. Trying to operate the system can injure or damage vehicles, the garage door, the opener, and other property. A stuck garage door also leaves your home vulnerable to intruders and natural elements such as rain, wind, or snow.
2. The Garage Door Stops Working
Check if the opener is plugged in or if a circuit breaker tripped. If that’s not the case or restoring power doesn’t help, call a professional. They can check a non-responsive garage door and quickly troubleshoot the problem. Repairs can be completed before more damage occurs.
3. Your Garage Door Is Slow
The garage door should respond immediately and move smoothly. Call for emergency garage door repair if it doesn’t respond to a command within one or two seconds. The problem may be with the garage door opener or faulty mechanical components.
You should also be used to the speed of the door. The system is tuned to operate at a certain speed. When the door opens or closes more slowly (or even more rapidly), this is a sign of a serious problem. Key parts may need to be replaced or the system may require lubrication; a contractor can quickly determine the appropriate solution.
4. The Wall Switch or Remote Stops Working
When the wall switch or remote control works sporadically, don’t assume it’s only a dead battery or an issue with the switch or remote. Faulty wiring is a possibility. Or, the garage door opener may have developed a problem that requires immediate repair.
5. Loud Noise When the System Is Running
Unusual noises should never be ignored. Clanging or popping sounds can come from faulty springs and rollers. Moving parts shouldn’t clang, squeak, or pop when the garage door is opened. The issue causing the noise can quickly escalate into something more serious. Also, if it sounds like your garage door is chugging along whenever it moves or it makes banging noises, call your local garage door repair company to check it out.
6. The Door Vibrates or Shakes
If the door panels vibrate or shake when the system is operated, call a repair tech before using it again. A worn-out spring, loose component, or misalignment can be the cause. Excessive vibration can accelerate wear and tear until the door’s stability and structural integrity are compromised.
7. A Spring or Cable Fails
The weight of the garage door and repeated use puts enormous pressure on springs and cables. These parts have a limited lifespan anyway. Most last for about 10,000 cycles. A broken spring or cable on one side can leave the door off-balance and uneven.
Although these are common replacement parts, never try to repair them yourself. A professional has the tools and expertise to replace springs and cables quickly and safely. Call for emergency garage door repair whenever this type of issue occurs.
8. The Door Is Off-Balance
Parts of the garage door sagging can mean it’s off-balance. The door may also be uneven after it’s closed. Balance issues put pressure on many parts and can strain the garage door opener. A prompt repair is your best option. Letting a loose door drag will cause more damage that requires larger or more costly repairs.
9. There Is Visible Damage
Call for garage door repairs sooner rather than later. Warping, cracks, and dents can affect the system’s performance and safety. Even a small area of damage can turn into something more serious and expensive. That’s why you should check for wear and tear often and contact a repair company at the first sign of trouble.
10. The Door Goes Off Its Tracks
An off-track garage door isn’t something you can fix without training and experience. Without immediate professional repair, it’s a serious safety hazard. It can also do extensive damage to the door and opener system. At the very least, it can bend, break, or pull tracks off the wall.
11. Your Energy Bill Spikes
A sudden increase in your utility bill is inconvenient, but it may not seem like an emergency. However, it’s a sign your garage door or opener isn’t working properly. Cracks or gaps in the door can increase heat loss and electricity costs. Poor insulation can also lead to higher energy bills. Call a professional immediately before there’s more damage and you waste more money on bills and repairs.
How to Prevent a Garage Door Emergency
Garage doors consist of many moving parts, so eventually, things break. However, you can prevent emergency garage door repairs by scheduling regular service. Professional maintenance involves checking for potential issues and fixing small ones early. You can also prevent damage by cleaning the garage door system, lubricating parts, removing obstructions, and avoiding impacts with the door.
Why You Need a Professional for Garage Door Repair
When your garage door needs to be fixed, a DIY repair is not cost-effective. Garage door repair can be complicated and dangerous. You need a professional for the following reasons:
- Extensive training, specialized knowledge, and expertise
- An understanding of different components and repair solutions
- Experience with various safety protocols
- A quick diagnosis of any problem
- Efficient repairs and lasting results
- Immediate response in an emergency
- Avoid costly future issues and repairs
Contact Us for Emergency Garage Door Repair
Mesa Garage Doors is the leading garage door repair company in Los Angeles and Southern California. Our technicians can perform any type of repair and are familiar with most makes and models. Whether a spring, cable, roller, or panel needs to be replaced, they can get it done quickly and safely and restore your garage door’s operation. Call us 24/7 at (800) 893-1107 for prompt service.
Mr. Saunders serves as Mesa’s Vice President of Marketing, bringing with him a wealth of experience in strategic marketing and operations. In this role, Mr. Saunders is responsible for overseeing all marketing activities, utilizing a blend of traditional and digital strategies to enhance brand presence and profitability, managing a multi-million dollar marketing budget across various media platforms, and leading the continued implementation of CRM systems to streamline customer engagement and drive business growth.
