How to Check Garage Door Spring Tension

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    If your garage door ain’t operating smoothly, your springs might be the culprit. Spring tension is essential for balancing the weight of the door, ensuring it moves smoothly and safely. So, here’s how you can check that tension like a pro, straight from Trenton Garage Doors.

    This guide will dive deep into how you can identify issues, adjust tension, and keep your garage door in perfect shape.

    Identifying the Type of Garage Door Spring

    Before diving in, you gotta know what you’re working with. There are two types of springs on garage doors: torsion springs and extension springs.

    • Torsion Springs: These are mounted horizontally above the door. They twist to create tension that lifts the door.
    • Extension Springs: These are located on either side of the door, stretching when it opens and contracting when it closes.

    Knowing your spring type is crucial because adjusting torsion springs and extension springs require different methods.

    Step-by-Step Guide to Checking Garage Door Spring Tension

    1. Disconnect the Garage Door Opener

    First thing’s first: safety. Disconnect the garage door opener to prevent any surprises. You don’t want it firing up while you’re adjusting the springs. Just pull the release cord on the opener track, and you’re in manual mode.

    2. Test the Door Balance

    Manually lift the door about halfway. If it stays in place, your spring tension is good. If it moves up or down on its own, that’s a problem. A door that rises means too much tension, while a door that drops means too little tension.

    3. Adjusting Torsion Springs

    For torsion springs, you’re gonna need winding bars. Insert them into the winding cone of the spring. Then, turn them either clockwise to tighten or counterclockwise to loosen the tension. Make small quarter-turns, checking the door’s balance each time.

    4. Adjusting Extension Springs

    For extension springs, it’s a little different. Look for the S-hooks attached to the springs and brackets. You can adjust tension by moving these hooks. Move the hook up to increase tension or down to reduce it. Again, small moves are the way to go.

    5. Test Again

    After adjusting, reconnect the opener and test the door. If it still ain’t moving smoothly, you may need to fine-tune the tension some more. It’s all about finding that sweet spot.

    Common Spring Tension Issues

    Here are some common signs your garage door spring tension might be off:

    Problem Cause Fix
    Door closes too quickly Too much tension Loosen the spring
    Door won’t stay open Not enough tension Tighten the spring
    Door opens unevenly Unequal tension on springs Adjust each spring equally
    Door is noisy Worn-out springs Inspect and replace springs

    Safety Tips When Working with Garage Door Springs

    • Wear protective gear: Always wear safety glasses and gloves. Springs are under high tension, so be careful.
    • Use proper tools: For torsion springs, only use winding bars. Using anything else can lead to serious injury.
    • Don’t rush: Make small adjustments and test often. The last thing you need is a spring snapping at you.

    FAQ’S

    How often should I check my garage door spring tension?

    You should check your spring tension at least once a year. Springs wear out over time, and regular inspections can help prevent sudden malfunctions. If you notice any strange noises or jerky door movements, that’s a sign to check sooner.

    Can I adjust garage door spring tension myself?

    Yes, but only if you feel comfortable handling mechanical repairs. Torsion springs are under high tension and can be dangerous. If you’re unsure, it’s better to call a professional. You can always reach out to Trenton Garage Doors for help.

    What happens if I don’t adjust spring tension?

    If you ignore spring tension issues, you’re setting yourself up for bigger problems. Your garage door opener will have to work harder, which can lead to wear on other parts like the tracks and rollers. Worst case, a broken spring can send the door crashing down.

    How do I know when to replace my garage door springs?

    If your springs look rusty or stretched out, or if your door isn’t opening smoothly even after tension adjustments, it’s probably time to replace them. Check this link for more info on the cost of replacing springs in New Jersey.

    Key Differences Between Torsion and Extension Springs

    Feature Torsion Springs Extension Springs
    Location Above the door, near the center Along the sides of the garage door
    Mechanism Twist to create tension Stretch to create tension
    Lifespan Longer lifespan, more expensive to repair Shorter lifespan, cheaper to replace
    Smoothness Provide smoother movement Can cause jerky movements
    Safety Safer due to controlled force distribution Riskier due to high-tension stretching

    Conclusion

    Maintaining the right tension in your garage door springs is critical for safe and efficient operation. Whether you’re dealing with torsion springs or extension springs, regular checks and minor adjustments can save you from costly repairs down the line. But if you’re not sure or feel uncomfortable handling these high-tension parts, don’t take the risk—get help from the pros at Trenton Garage Doors.

    Your garage door needs to work properly day in and day out. If you need help with spring tension or any other garage door issue, reach out to us. Our team will get your door back on track. Call us today and let’s get it sorted!

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