Most Recent: December 31, 1969
Garage door openers are a part of modern living, convenience and security. However, many myths surround their maintenance, leading homeowners to either neglect necessary care or perform unnecessary tasks. It’s time to separate fact from fiction to keep your garage door opener running smoothly. Here are some Palm Desert, CA, garage door opener maintenance myths you should stop believing. 1. You Only Need to Maintain Your Garage Door Opener When It Breaks One of the biggest myths is that garage door openers only need maintenance when they break. The truth is regular maintenance can prevent costly repairs and extend the life of the opener. Just like any other mechanical system, garage door openers need periodic lubrication and adjustments. Lack of preventive maintenance can lead to sudden breakdowns and you’ll be scrambling to fix the problem. 2. Lubrication is Not Needed for Modern Garage Door Openers Another myth is that modern garage door openers don’t need lubrication because they are more advanced than older models. In reality, lubrication is key to keeping the opener running smoothly. Even the newest models have moving parts like chains, belts and springs that need lubrication to reduce friction and wear and tear. Apply a silicone-based lubricant regularly and these parts will function optimally. 3. Garage Door Opener Repair is a DIY While some garage door repairs in Palm Desert, CA, can be DIY, many require professional expertise. It’s easy to assume all maintenance tasks are simple and can be done with basic tools, but that’s not always the case. For example, adjusting the force or travel limits on your garage door opener requires a deep understanding of how these systems work. Incorrect adjustments can cause more damage or safety issues. Always call a professional if you’re unsure. 4. The Garage Door Opener Is Only The Motor Many people think the motor is the most important part of the garage door opener, but the system is more than that. The opener has several components like springs, cables and sensors, all of which need attention. Neglecting these parts can cause problems that will affect the opener’s performance. For example, if the springs are worn out or the cables are loose, the motor will have to work harder, which can cause it to overheat or fail sooner. 5. Just Replace the Batteries in Your Remote Replacing the batteries in your remote might seem like enough to maintain your garage door opener, but there’s more to it. Over time, the sensors and other electrical components in your system may need cleaning or recalibration. Even a small piece of debris can affect the door’s ability to open or close properly. Inspect and clean the sensors and remote system regularly to keep your opener running at full power. 6. Garage Door Openers are Maintenance Free Some homeowners think once a garage door opener is installed it requires no maintenance. But garage door openers need regular care. Over time, the tracks can accumulate dirt and debris and the door will not function smoothly. Without maintenance issues like misalignment or wear can escalate quickly and cost you major repairs. 7. A Quiet Garage Door is PerfectIf the garage door opener is quiet, it may seem like it’s running perfectly, but it doesn’t mean it’s trouble-free. Noise is often a sign that parts like rollers or hinges need lubrication or replacement. A silent opener could be hiding problems like misaligned tracks which can cause more damage in the future. Regular maintenance checks are needed even if your garage door opener seems to be working smoothly. 8. All Garage Door Openers are the SameIt’s easy to think all garage door openers are the same, but the truth is there are many types and each has its own maintenance requirements. Belt-driven openers, chain-driven openers and screw-driven openers all have different needs when it comes to lubrication, adjustments and part replacement. You need to know the specifics of your opener’s model and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for care. Now that you know the truth, you can avoid costly mistakes and your system will run smoothly for years to come. Maintenance, including lubrication, inspection and professional servicing, can extend the life of your opener and prevent unexpected failures. Remember a well-maintained garage door opener not only runs more efficiently but also ensures the safety and security of your home. If you’re unsure about how to maintain your garage door opener or need a professional inspection, don’t hesitate to reach out to an expert from Door Pros. Call them at 760-325-3667 to schedule a consultation today to ensure your system is in top condition. FAQs 1. How often should I maintain my garage door opener? Every 6 months. Regular checks will prevent issues and keep your system running smoothly. 2. Can I adjust the settings myself?Some basic adjustments can be done by homeowners but more complex settings like force and travel limits should be done by professionals. Incorrect adjustments can damage the system or pose safety risks.