The garage in your home provides a convenient place for your extra belongings and allows you to enter and exit the property easily. However, when the garage door opener starts to fail, it cannot provide a secure lock for the door, compromising the home's security. Below are several indications that you should replace this device.

When Should You Replace a Garage Door Opener? 

1. Intermittent Movement

The garage door malfunctions in two ways: it may refuse to open or close or may only move occasionally. Both issues are safety hazards, as the door may be stuck in the open position, leaving the home vulnerable to inclement weather and intruders. First, test the remotes and wall unit. If the wall unit works and the remotes do not, replace the batteries.

However, if none of the devices work, there is a connection issue with the garage door opener. For example, the cable that moves the door may be disconnected, which you can solve by pulling the release cord toward the door. If this does not work, the cable may be damaged, which requires professional replacement.

2. Reversing Operation

In 1993, the U.S. made all garages include an automatic safety reversing feature, such as photoelectric sensors. These devices protect people and belongings by sensing when something is in the way of the door, preventing it from closing. However, if the door reverses even when the path is clear, the sensors may be dirty or misaligned. Clean them with a microfiber cloth and ensure they are pointing toward each other, and try to use the door.

If the door still refuses to close, there is likely a problem with the opener. Often, this occurs when the device is drawing too much power, causing it to trip a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI). This prevents the door from functioning properly, so try pressing the reset button on the outlet. If this doesn't work, replacing the garage door opener is the best option, as you can get a new model that is rated for your home's electrical system.

3. Strange Noises

While the garage door may be loud during operation, you shouldn't hear anything coming from the opener. If you do, the gears in the motor are likely damaged, which can produce buzzing or grinding noises. These gears attach to the motor shaft and allow the opener to pull the door upward. As they age, they can develop cracks and other blemishes that prevent them from moving smoothly.

If you need a new, reliable garage door opener, contact Kalispell Overhead Door Service in Flathead County, MT. Since 1999, they have been installing, repairing, and maintaining garage doors in homes and commercial buildings. They sell a variety of garage door accessories and parts and ensure high-quality results on every project. Call (406) 755-4120 to schedule an appointment. Visit the website for more information about their services.