Garage doors are an essential part of any home, providing security and convenience. They’re also a complex system, with many different components that need to work together in order to function properly. One of the most important components is the spring system. The springs are what lift and lower the door, and they need to be properly adjusted in order to do their job. If the springs are too loose, the door will be difficult to lift. If they’re too tight, the door will be hard to close. In either case, it can put unnecessary strain on the door and its components, leading to premature wear and tear. That’s why it’s important to know how to adjust garage door springs. It’s a relatively simple process that can save you a lot of time and money in the long run.
The first step is to identify the type of springs you have. There are two main types of garage door springs: torsion springs and extension springs. Torsion springs are mounted on a shaft above the door, and they twist when the door is opened or closed. Extension springs are mounted on the sides of the door, and they stretch when the door is opened or closed. Once you’ve identified the type of springs you have, you can begin the adjustment process. If you have torsion springs, you’ll need to adjust the tension on the springs using a winding bar. If you have extension springs, you’ll need to adjust the length of the springs using a pair of pliers.
No matter what type of springs you have, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Springs can be dangerous if they’re not properly handled, so it’s important to take all necessary precautions. If you’re not comfortable adjusting the springs yourself, you can always call a professional for help. They’ll have the tools and experience to get the job done safely and correctly.
Safety Precautions
Garage door springs are under immense tension, and attempting to adjust them without proper precautions can be extremely dangerous. Therefore, it’s imperative to prioritize safety by following these guidelines:
- Disconnect Power: Always disconnect the electricity to the garage door opener before touching the springs. This can be done by flipping the circuit breaker or unplugging the opener.
- Secure the Door: Prop open the garage door to prevent it from falling unexpectedly. Use a sturdy object, such as a broom handle or 2×4, to secure the door in place.
- Wear Safety Gear: Protect yourself by wearing gloves, safety glasses, and earplugs. These measures will safeguard you from any potential hazards like spring breakage or sudden release of tension.
- Inspect the Springs: Before making any adjustments, thoroughly inspect the springs for any signs of damage, such as cracks, rust, or fraying. If you observe any damage, do not proceed with the adjustment and seek professional assistance.
- Have an Assistant: Adjusting garage door springs solo is not recommended. Enlist the help of a partner to assist you. They can hold the spring or tools while you make the necessary adjustments.
- Follow Instructions Carefully: Consult the manufacturer’s instructions or seek guidance from experienced professionals to ensure proper adjustment procedures. Rushing or improvising can lead to accidents.
Tools Required
The following tools are typically necessary for adjusting garage door springs:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Winding Bars: | These specialized tools facilitate the winding or unwinding of the springs. |
| Safety Glasses: | Protecting your eyes from flying debris or spring breakage. |
| Gloves: | Shielding your hands from cuts or abrasions. |
| Earplugs: | Minimizing exposure to excessive noise generated during the adjustment process. |
| Tape Measure: | Measuring the proper distance between the spring coils. |
Locating the Extension Springs
Extension springs are typically located on either side of the garage door, attached to the door frame and the spring bar. To find them:
- Open the garage door.
- Look for two coiled metal springs near the top of the door, one on each side.
- The springs may be covered by a protective cover or casing.
| Visual Clues | Location |
|---|---|
| Black or silver metallic coils | Attached to the door frame and spring bar |
| Approx. 2-3 feet in length | Extending parallel to the top of the door |
| May be covered by a protective sleeve | For safety reasons |
If you have trouble locating the extension springs, consult your garage door owner’s manual or contact a professional garage door technician for assistance.
Preparing the Spring for Adjustment
1. Gather Your Tools and Safety Gear
Assemble the necessary tools, including a pair of heavy-duty pliers, a screwdriver, and a flashlight. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from debris and potential injuries.
2. Disconnect the Garage Door Opener
Pull the release cord or disengage the release mechanism to disconnect the garage door opener from the door. This will allow you to work on the spring without interference.
3. Compress the Spring
Using a pair of heavy-duty pliers, carefully compress the spring by twisting it counterclockwise. Begin by twisting the spring only a few turns at a time, checking the tension as you go. Twisting the spring too tightly can damage it or cause it to snap.
| Spring Type | Twist Direction | Turns to Twist |
|---|---|---|
| Extension Spring | Counterclockwise | 5-10 turns |
| Torsion Spring | Clockwise | 10-15 turns |
Tips for Spring Compression:
* Wear safety glasses and gloves at all times.
* Work slowly and carefully to avoid accidents.
* If you are unsure about the correct number of turns, err on the side of caution and twist less.
* If the spring is difficult to compress, use a pry bar to assist you.
Testing the Door Balance
1. Close the Garage Door
Fully close the garage door to start testing its balance. This step ensures that the springs are not under any tension or weight before testing.
2. Disconnect the Opener
Pull the emergency release cord to disconnect the garage door opener from the door. This will allow you to manually operate the door for testing purposes.
3. Lift the Door to Mid-Position
Lift the garage door to approximately the middle of its travel range. At this point, the springs should be evenly balanced, and the door should remain in place without assistance.
4. Release the Door
Slowly release the garage door. If the door stays in place, it is properly balanced. However, if the door starts to close or open on its own, it is not balanced and requires adjustment.
5. Check the Door Movement
If the door does not stay in place, observe how it moves. If it closes quickly, the springs are too strong. If it opens quickly, the springs are too weak.
6. Adjust Spring Tension
To adjust the spring tension, locate the spring adjustment bolts on the spring brackets. If the springs are too strong, tighten the bolts to increase tension. If the springs are too weak, loosen the bolts to reduce tension. Turn the bolts incrementally and retest the door balance after each adjustment.
Note: Adjusting spring tension can be dangerous. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and use proper safety precautions, including wearing gloves and eye protection.
| Spring Tension too Strong | Spring Tension too Weak |
|---|---|
| Door closes quickly | Door opens quickly |
| Tighten spring adjustment bolts | Loosen spring adjustment bolts |
Lubricating the Springs
Regular lubrication is essential for maintaining smooth garage door operation and extending the life of the springs. Here’s a detailed guide on how to lubricate garage door springs:
Materials You’ll Need:
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lithium or silicone-based spray lubricant | 1 can |
| Clean rags | 2-3 |
| Ladder or step stool | 1 |
Steps:
1.
Safety First: Unplug the garage door opener and disengage the door from the opener to prevent accidental activation.
2.
Locate the Springs: Identify the torsion or extension springs mounted above the door. Torsion springs are typically located horizontally above the door, while extension springs hang vertically on either side.
3.
Protect Your Eyes: Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from lubricant spray.
4.
Clean the Springs: Use a clean rag to wipe down the springs, removing any dirt, dust, or debris that could interfere with lubrication.
5.
Apply Lubricant: Hold the lubricant can about 6-8 inches away from the springs and spray evenly along the entire length of the springs. Avoid excessive lubricant, as it can attract dirt and grime.
6.
Lubricate the Pulleys: If your garage door has pulleys, apply lubricant to the pulley bearings as well. This will ensure smooth operation of the door.
7.
Wipe Down Excess Lubricant: Use a clean rag to wipe away any excess lubricant that may have dripped or splattered. This will prevent it from becoming a hazard.
8.
Reactivate the Door: Once the springs are lubricated, reconnect the garage door to the opener and plug it back in. The door should now operate smoothly and quietly.
9.
Repeat Regularly: Lubricate the springs every 6-12 months or as needed, depending on the usage and environment.
Troubleshooting Common Spring Issues
8. Binding, Grinding, or Squeaking Springs
These noises indicate issues with spring movement or binding. Inspect the following components:
- Loose or Misaligned Rollers: Reposition or tighten loose rollers to ensure smooth spring movement.
- Damaged or Deformed Tracks: Examine the door tracks for bent or warped sections that could hinder spring movement.
- Obstructed Springs: Clear any obstructions or debris from around the springs to allow for free operation.
- Lack of Lubrication: Apply lithium-based garage door lubricant to rollers, hinges, and springs to reduce friction and prevent noise.
If none of the above checks resolve the issue, consider contacting a professional garage door repair technician for further troubleshooting and potential spring replacement.
| Spring Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Extension Springs | $100-$250 |
| Torsion Springs | $150-$350 |
| Drums or Cone Springs | $200-$400 |
Materials You’ll Need:
– Screwdriver
– Tape measure
– Ladder
– Safety glasses
– Gloves
Safety First
Before you begin, put on your safety glasses and gloves. Garage door springs are under high tension and can be dangerous if they’re not handled properly.
Inspect the Spring
Before you adjust the spring, inspect it for any damage or wear. If the spring is broken or damaged, it must be replaced by a professional.
Adjusting the Spring
To adjust the spring, you’ll need to know the tension on the spring. The tension is measured in “coils.” To measure the coils, open the garage door all the way and then count the number of coils that are visible on the spring.
Setting the Tension
Once you know the tension on the spring, you can adjust it by tightening or loosening the nuts on the spring. To tighten the spring, turn the nuts clockwise. To loosen the spring, turn the nuts counterclockwise.
Test the Door
After you’ve adjusted the spring, test the door to make sure it’s opening and closing properly. If the door is still not working properly, you may need to adjust the spring further.
Professional Installation and Maintenance
If you’re not comfortable adjusting the spring yourself, you can hire a professional to do it for you. Professional garage door repair companies can also provide maintenance services to keep your garage door in good working condition.
Benefits of Professional Installation and Maintenance:
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Increased Safety | Professionals can ensure that your garage door is installed and maintained safely, reducing the risk of accidents. |
| Extended Lifespan | Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your garage door by up to 10 years. |
| Improved Performance | Professionals can fine-tune your garage door’s performance, making it smoother and quieter. |
| Peace of Mind | Knowing that your garage door is in good hands can give you peace of mind. |
Tools Required for Garage Door Spring Adjustment
Before beginning the adjustment process, gather the necessary tools: a ladder, a socket wrench or a screwdriver, and a locking pliers.
Safety Tips for Garage Door Spring Adjustment
1. Disconnect the Power Source
Unplug the garage door opener from the power outlet or switch off the circuit breaker to prevent accidental operation.
2. Secure the Garage Door
Place a sturdy object, such as a block of wood or a cinder block, under the garage door to prevent it from falling.
3. Wear Safety Glasses
Protect your eyes from flying debris or snapped springs by wearing safety glasses.
4. Identify the Spring Type
Determine the type of spring on your garage door (e.g., torsion or extension) as adjustment procedures vary.
5. Locate the Adjustment Points
Find the adjustment points on the spring brackets or drums, which are typically marked with arrows.
6. Adjust Slowly and Incrementally
Make small adjustments at a time to avoid over-tightening or damaging the springs.
7. Test the Garage Door
After each adjustment, test the garage door’s operation to ensure proper tension.
8. Tighten the Bolts Securely
Once the desired tension is achieved, tighten the adjustment bolts securely to prevent the springs from shifting.
9. Lubricate the Springs
Apply a silicone-based lubricant to the springs to reduce friction and extend their lifespan.
10. Professional Assistance
If you are not comfortable adjusting the garage door springs yourself or encounter any difficulties, do not hesitate to contact a qualified garage door technician for assistance.
| Extension Springs | Torsion Springs |
|---|---|
| Adjust by turning the bolts on the spring brackets | Adjust by winding or unwinding the spring around the drum |
| Tighten to increase tension, loosen to decrease tension | Wind clockwise to increase tension, counterclockwise to decrease tension |
How To Adjust Garage Door Spring
Garage door springs are essential for the smooth and safe operation of your garage door. They provide the tension needed to lift the door and keep it in place. Over time, springs can lose their tension and need to be adjusted. Adjusting garage door springs can be a dangerous task, so it is important to follow all safety precautions and to have the proper tools and equipment.
To adjust garage door springs, you will need:
– A pair of pliers
– A screwdriver
– A ladder
– A helper (optional)
Once you have gathered your tools and equipment, follow these steps:
1. Disconnect the power to the garage door opener.
2. Open the garage door manually.
3. Locate the springs on either side of the door.
4. Use the pliers to loosen the nuts on the spring brackets.
5. Turn the spring adjuster screws clockwise to tighten the springs, or counterclockwise to loosen them.
6. Tighten the nuts on the spring brackets.
7. Reconnect the power to the garage door opener.
8. Test the garage door to make sure it is operating properly.
