Your overhead garage door is an essential part of your home, offering ease of access and security. However, improper use or lack of care can lead to safety hazards. To ensure safe use, follow these essential safety tips for operating your garage door.
Routine Inspections Are Key
Routine maintenance is the foundation to ensuring safe operation. Inspect the torsion springs, wires, wheels, and rails for wear and tear. Look out for unusual noises or jerky movements, which could indicate a problem. Addressing these issues early can prevent accidents and costly repairs.
Don’t Lose Control
Treat your garage door remote control like a security tool. Keep it out of reach of little ones and store it in a safe place when not in use. For added security, consider a smart garage door opener that requires a digital key or PIN to operate.
Teach Your Family About Garage Door Safety
Ensure everyone in your household understands how to use the garage door safely. Teach children not to play near the door or its mechanisms and explain the risks of tampering with the system. Proper training is key to ensuring safety.
Keep Features in Check
Modern garage doors are equipped with safety features like auto-reverse and obstacle detection. Test these features regularly to ensure they are functioning as intended. Place an object like a block of wood under the door while it’s closing—if it doesn’t reverse upon contact, it’s time for a service check.
Leave Repairs to the Pros
While some maintenance tasks can be DIY-friendly, repairs involving springs, wires, or the opener mechanism should always be left to professionals. These components are under extreme stress and can cause severe harm if mishandled.
