5 Easy Steps to Adjust Spring Tension on Garage Door

Adjusting the spring tension on your garage door is a simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. By following these steps, you can ensure that your garage door opens and closes smoothly and safely.

First, you need to gather some tools. You will need a pair of pliers, a screwdriver, and a ladder. Once you have your tools, you can begin the process of adjusting the spring tension. To start, locate the springs on your garage door. The springs are usually located on either side of the door, and they are attached to the door frame. Once you have located the springs, you need to determine which way to adjust them. If the door is opening too slowly, you need to tighten the springs. If the door is opening too quickly, you need to loosen the springs.

To tighten the springs, use the pliers to turn the nuts on the springs clockwise. To loosen the springs, turn the nuts counterclockwise. Be sure to turn the nuts only a small amount at a time, and test the door after each adjustment. Once you have adjusted the spring tension to the desired level, you can reattach the springs to the door frame and close the door.

Preparing for Adjustment

Before embarking on the adjustment process, it’s crucial to ensure safety and prepare adequately. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to guide you through:

1. Safety Precautions:

Garage door springs are under immense tension and can cause severe injuries if mishandled. Prioritize safety by:

Disconnecting the garage door opener to prevent accidental activation.
Setting the ladder firmly on level ground, ensuring stability and preventing it from shifting or toppling.
Utilizing proper tools, such as a winding bar or a socket wrench, designed specifically for adjusting garage door springs.
Wearing protective gear, including gloves and safety glasses, to shield yourself from potential projectiles or flying debris.
Having a spotter present for assistance and an additional layer of safety.

2. Identifying the Spring Type:

Garage door springs come in various types, each requiring a specific adjustment method. Identify your spring type by visually inspecting the shape and configuration:

Spring Type	Description
Torsion Spring	Mounted on a shaft above the door and coiled around it
Extension Spring	Attached to cables running alongside the tracks, extending when the door opens

3. Gathering the Necessary Tools:

To adjust garage door springs effectively, assemble the following tools:

Winding bar or socket wrench
Tape measure or ruler
Level
Lubricant (optional but recommended)

Identifying Spring Types

There are three main types of springs used in garage doors: torsion springs, extension springs, and oil-tempered springs.

1. Torsion Springs

Torsion springs are mounted on a shaft that runs across the top of the garage door opening. They are wound up when the door is closed and then unwind when the door is opened. Torsion springs are the most common type of spring used in garage doors.

2. Extension Springs

Extension springs are mounted on the sides of the garage door opening. They are stretched when the door is closed and then contract when the door is opened. Extension springs are less common than torsion springs, but they are sometimes used on smaller garage doors.

Extension springs are made of high carbon steel and are typically zinc plated for corrosion resistance. They come in a variety of sizes and strengths, depending on the weight and height of the garage door. The following table shows the different sizes and strengths of extension springs:

Spring Size	Spring Strength	Compatible Door Weight (lbs.)
1″	100 lbs.	100-150
1-1/4″	125 lbs.	150-200
1-1/2″	150 lbs.	200-250
1-3/4″	175 lbs.	250-300
2″	200 lbs.	300-350

3. Oil-Tempered Springs

Oil-tempered springs are a type of extension spring that is made of high carbon steel and is then oil-tempered. This process makes the springs more durable and resistant to breakage. Oil-tempered springs are used on heavy garage doors.

Safety Precautions

When working with garage door springs, safety is paramount. Always keep these precautions in mind to avoid accidents and injuries:

Wear protective gear: Wear gloves, safety glasses, and earplugs to protect yourself from flying debris and potential noise.
Disconnect the opener: Unplug the garage door opener from the power source to prevent accidental operation while you work.
Secure the door: Place a sturdy object, such as a block of wood or a heavy toolbox, under the bottom of the door to prevent it from suddenly dropping.
Inspect the springs: Before attempting any adjustments, carefully inspect the springs for any signs of damage, wear, or corrosion. If you notice any abnormalities, do not attempt to adjust the springs and seek professional assistance.
Use the proper tools: Always use the correct tools for the job. Do not attempt to adjust the springs with screwdrivers or other improper instruments.
Be aware of spring force: Garage door springs are under immense tension. If not handled properly, they can cause serious injuries or damage to property. Never attempt to adjust the springs without proper training or experience.

Tools Required

Gathering the necessary tools before adjusting garage door spring tension is crucial for a successful and safe repair. Here’s a comprehensive list of essential tools you’ll need:

Tools	Description
Ladder	Sturdy and tall enough to reach the springs
Safety Glasses	Protect your eyes from flying debris
Gloves	Protect your hands from grease and splinters
Winding Bar	Specialized tool for adjusting spring tension
Socket Wrench	For adjusting nuts and bolts on the winding cones
Locking Pliers	Hold the winding cones in place while adjusting
Flashlight	For illuminating dark areas

Additionally, consider the following items for added safety and convenience:

Spring bar (for supporting the spring during adjustments)
Work gloves (for handling the springs)
Tape measure (for checking spring tension)
Flashlight (for illuminating the work area)

Locating Adjustment Bolts

To locate the adjustment bolts on your garage door spring system, follow these steps:

Identify the spring type: There are two main types of garage door springs: torsion springs and extension springs. Torsion springs are mounted above the door opening, while extension springs run along the sides of the door.
Safety first: Before adjusting the springs, ensure that the door is fully closed and that the release mechanism is engaged to prevent the door from moving.
Locate the spring mountings: Torsion springs are mounted on a shaft or tube, while extension springs are attached to the door frame and the spring anchor. Locate these mountings on your garage door system.
Inspect the bolts: On torsion springs, look for two bolts that are perpendicular to the shaft or tube. On extension springs, look for a single bolt that connects the spring to the anchor.
Use the correct tools: You will need a socket wrench or an open-end wrench to adjust the bolts. The size of the wrench will vary depending on the size of the bolts on your spring system.

Additional Tips:

1. If you are not comfortable adjusting the spring tension yourself, consult a professional garage door repair technician.
2. Keep a notebook of the original bolt settings before making any adjustments.
3. Only make small adjustments at a time, and test the door’s operation before making further adjustments.

Determining Spring Tension

The tension of a garage door spring is crucial for the safe and proper operation of the door. Incorrect tension can lead to premature failure, safety hazards, or difficulty in opening or closing the door.

To determine the proper spring tension, follow these steps:

1. Disconnect the garage door opener: Unplug the opener or disconnect the power to the door.

2. Raise the door manually: With the opener disconnected, manually lift the door about halfway.

3. Observe the springs: Carefully examine the springs and look for any signs of damage or deformation.

4. Check the cable tension: The cables attached to the springs should be taut but not excessively tight.

5. Measure the spring diameter: Measure the diameter of the springs (measured from the center of the coils).

6. **Determine the spring type:** Identify the type of springs used on your garage door. Common types include torsion springs and extension springs.

Torsion Springs:

Mounted horizontally above the door
Tension is adjusted by winding or unwinding the spring using a winding bar
Refer to the spring manufacturer’s chart to determine the correct winding distance for your spring diameter and door weight

Extension Springs:

Mounted vertically on both sides of the door
Tension is adjusted by adding or removing coils from the spring
Refer to the manufacturer’s chart or use a spring scale to determine the correct number of coils for your door weight

Once you have determined the spring tension, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific adjustment procedures. Adjust the springs carefully, following the manufacturer’s guidelines, and test the door’s operation thoroughly before reconnecting the garage door opener.

Making the Adjustments

Once you have identified the adjustment screws, it’s time to make the actual adjustments. Here’s how to do it:

1. Loosen the Adjusting Screw on the Weak Spring

Using a wrench or socket, loosen the adjusting screw on the spring that is causing the door to sag. Turn the screw counterclockwise to loosen it.

2. Tighten the Adjusting Screw on the Strong Spring

Now, turn your attention to the spring on the other side of the door. Using a wrench or socket, tighten the adjusting screw on this spring. Turn the screw clockwise to tighten it.

3. Repeat Steps 1 and 2

Repeat steps 1 and 2 until the door is level. You may need to make several adjustments to get the tension just right.

4. Check the Door’s Balance

Once you have made the adjustments, check the door’s balance by releasing it from the open position. If the door opens and closes smoothly, without any sagging or bouncing, then you have adjusted the tension correctly.

5. Lock the Adjusting Screws

Once you are satisfied with the tension, lock the adjusting screws in place. Turn the screws clockwise to tighten them.

6. Lubricate the Springs

To keep the springs working smoothly, lubricate them with a silicone-based lubricant. Apply the lubricant to the coils of the springs.

7. Troubleshooting: Springs Under Too Much Tension

If you find that the springs are under too much tension, you may notice the following symptoms:

The door is difficult to open and close, and you may feel a lot of resistance when you try to move it.

The door bounces back up when you try to close it.

The springs make a creaking or groaning sound when the door is moved.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should loosen the adjusting screws on the springs slightly. Start by loosening the screws on the weak spring, and then move on to the strong spring. Loosen the screws in small increments, and check the door’s balance after each adjustment.

Releasing Tension

Releasing the tension on a garage door spring can be a dangerous task if not performed correctly. It is important to take precautions and follow the steps below carefully to avoid injury.

Gather your tools. You will need a pair of adjustable wrenches, a ladder, and a helper.
Disconnect the garage door from the opener. This will prevent the door from opening or closing while you are working on it.
Climb the ladder and locate the springs. There will be two springs on each side of the door.
Use the adjustable wrenches to loosen the nuts on the bolts that hold the springs in place.
Slowly lower the door until the tension on the springs is released.
Once the tension is released, remove the bolts and springs from the door.
Inspect the springs for damage. If there is any damage, the springs will need to be replaced.
Reinstall the springs and bolts on the door. Make sure to tighten the nuts securely.
Reconnect the garage door to the opener.
Test the door to make sure it is working properly.

If you are not comfortable performing this task yourself, it is best to call a professional garage door repair technician.

Here is a table with some additional tips for releasing the tension on a garage door spring:

Tip	Description
Use a helper	Having a helper can make the task easier and safer.
Be careful not to overtighten the nuts	Overtightening the nuts can damage the springs.
Test the door before using it	This will ensure that the door is working properly.

Checking for Proper Function

To ensure that your garage door is functioning correctly, perform the following steps:

Observe the door’s movement: Watch for any hesitations, jerking, or unusual noises during operation.
Test the balance: Disconnect the opener and manually lift the door. It should remain balanced and stay open halfway when released.
Inspect the tracks and rollers: Examine the tracks for any debris or damage that could impede smooth movement. Check the rollers for wear or loose bearings.
Evaluate the springs: Look for any loose, broken, or misaligned springs. Springs should be evenly tensioned and not show signs of wear.
Test the safety features: Ensure that the garage door reverses when it encounters an obstacle. Check the photo eyes for proper alignment and functionality.
Adjust the limit switches: Adjust the limit switches so that the door opens and closes to the desired height and stops automatically.
Check the opener’s performance: Run the opener through several cycles to monitor its operation. Listen for any strange noises or vibrations.
Inspect the remote controls: Test the remotes to ensure they are functioning and have sufficient range.
Check the keypad: If a keypad is installed, input the code several times to verify its functionality.

By thoroughly checking for proper function, you can ensure your garage door operates smoothly, safely, and reliably.

Resetting the Springs

If you have determined that the springs are too loose or too tight, you will need to reset them. To do this, first, disconnect the garage door opener from the springs by pulling the release cord or chain. Then, use a pair of pliers to remove the cotter pins that hold the springs in place. Once the cotter pins are removed, you can carefully remove the springs from the pulleys. Be careful not to let the springs snap back at you, as they can cause serious injury.

Adjusting the Springs

Once the springs are removed, you can adjust them to the correct tension. To do this, use a pair of pliers to bend the spring arms in or out. Bending the arms in will increase the tension, while bending them out will decrease the tension. Start by making small adjustments and then test the tension by opening and closing the garage door. Repeat this process until the tension is correct.

Troubleshooting

10. The garage door opens too slowly or too quickly

This could be caused by a number of issues, including:

The springs are too loose or too tight
The door opener is not properly adjusted
The door tracks are misaligned
The rollers are worn or damaged

To troubleshoot this issue, first, check the springs to make sure they are properly adjusted. Then, check the door opener to make sure it is properly installed and adjusted. If the springs and door opener are properly adjusted, then check the door tracks to make sure they are aligned. Finally, check the rollers to make sure they are not worn or damaged.

Possible Cause	Solution
Springs are too loose	Tighten springs
Springs are too tight	Loosen springs
Door opener not properly adjusted	Adjust door opener
Door tracks misaligned	Align door tracks
Rollers worn or damaged	Replace rollers

How to Adjust Spring Tension on a Garage Door

Garage door springs are an important part of the system, as they help to lift and lower the door smoothly and safely. Over time, springs can become loose or stretched, causing the door to become difficult to open or close. If you’re experiencing this problem, you may need to adjust the spring tension.

Here are the steps on how to adjust spring tension on a garage door:

Safety first! Before you begin, make sure that the garage door is closed and the power is turned off.
Identify the springs. Garage door springs are typically located above the door, on either side. They are usually made of metal and are wound around a shaft.
Locate the adjustment nuts. The adjustment nuts are located on the ends of the springs. They are usually made of plastic or metal.
Turn the adjustment nuts. To increase the spring tension, turn the nuts clockwise. To decrease the spring tension, turn the nuts counterclockwise.
Test the door. Once you have adjusted the spring tension, open and close the door to test it. If the door is still difficult to open or close, you may need to adjust the tension further.