When Your Garage Door Opener Starts Acting Glitchy

We rely on our garage door openers every single day to easily get in and out of the garage. But what happens when that trusted automatic opener suddenly starts acting up? Don’t panic – there are usually simple explanations and fixes for why your garage door opener may be glitching. Here are some potential culprits to check.

Sensors are Misaligned

One common reason for glitchy garage door behavior is misaligned sensors. Most openers have an invisible beam sensor that runs across the garage floor. When this beam is disrupted by an object in the path, it will cause the door to stop moving. Over time, these sensors can become misaligned from bumps or weather conditions. Rest them using small adjustments until the light on each sensor is solid. This is usually a quick DIY fix to restore smooth operation.

Worn Out Battery Backup

Many garage door openers have a battery backup that keeps things working if the power goes out for a bit. But eventually, these dated batteries will lose their charge and need replacing. Check if your opener has a battery compartment and replace if the current one is swollen or corroded. A new lithium backup battery can prevent glitches related to power outages.

Motor is Worn Down

If the issues seem to be the motor itself having trouble lifting or lowering the door smoothly, it may be time to call in a pro. The motor is the heart of the system and will eventually show wear over 10-15 years of heavy use. Garage Door Opener Repair in Short Pump can diagnose whether your motor just needs lubrication or a full replacement is needed. They have the expertise to get your opener running reliably again.

Remote Needs Programming

Over years of use, the remote controls can sometimes lose their connection to the opener. When this happens, simple errors occur, like the door reversing direction or not responding at all to remote signals. Reprogramming the remote to the unit typically restores full function. Check the owner’s manual or call the installation company to walk through resetting the remote code.

Weather Damage or Wear and Tear

Extreme heat, cold, rain, or snow can wreak havoc on garage door parts over time. The rollers, hinges, springs, and other moving components are all subject to the elements. Regular wear and tear, dings, or rust spots can interfere with smooth operation as well. An expert technician can assess damage, make repairs as needed, and lubricate or tighten parts to improve performance.

Don’t get frustrated with glitchy garage door issues – they are usually repairable. The tips above cover some common culprits behind act up. With some DIY adjustments or a pro service, you can restore like-new function and reliability to your garage door opener in no time.