When your garage door is acting up, it can be a major inconvenience. One of the most common problems is a faulty spring. If your garage door spring is broken or loose, it can cause the door to open and close erratically, or even become stuck. In this article, we’ll show you how to adjust a garage door spring so that your door is working properly again.
Before you start, it’s important to gather the right tools. You’ll need a pair of pliers, a screwdriver, and a ladder. You may also want to wear gloves to protect your hands from any sharp edges. Once you have your tools, you can start by identifying the type of spring that your garage door has. There are two main types of springs: torsion springs and extension springs.
Torsion springs are located above the garage door, while extension springs are located on either side of the door. Once you’ve identified the type of spring that you have, you can start the adjustment process. If you have torsion springs, you’ll need to use a pair of pliers to adjust the tension on the springs. If you have extension springs, you’ll need to use a screwdriver to adjust the tension on the springs. In either case, you’ll need to be careful not to over-tighten the springs, as this can damage them.
Determining Spring Type
Identifying the type of springs used in your garage door is crucial before attempting any adjustments. There are two primary types of springs:
- Torsion Springs: These springs are mounted horizontally above the garage door opening. They are typically made of galvanized steel and wound around a steel shaft. Torsion springs are used in heavier garage doors and provide more lifting power.
- Extension Springs: These springs are mounted vertically on either side of the garage door, extending and contracting as the door opens and closes. They are made of galvanized steel and attached to the door frame and the bottom bracket. Extension springs are typically used in lighter garage doors and require more force to open the door.
To determine the type of springs your garage door has, visually inspect the springs above the door opening or on the sides of the door. If you cannot identify the spring type, refer to the garage door manufacturer’s manual or consult a qualified garage door technician.
Here’s a table summarizing the differences between torsion and extension springs:
| Spring Type | Mounting | Lifting Power |
|---|---|---|
| Torsion | Horizontally above the door | Higher |
| Extension | Vertically on either side of the door | Lower |
Safety Precautions
1. Disconnect the Garage Door Opener
Unplug the garage door opener from the power outlet or switch off the circuit breaker that powers it. This will prevent the door from opening or closing while you’re working on it.
2. Support the Garage Door
With the opener disconnected, manually lift the garage door about halfway up. Secure it in place using a pair of C-clamps or a sturdy object, such as a ladder or a piece of wood, placed under the bottom of the door. This is crucial to prevent the door from falling and causing serious injury.
To properly support the door, follow these steps:
| Step | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| 1 | Locate the jamb brackets on both sides of the door. |
| 2 | Place the C-clamps on the jamb brackets, with the clamps facing forward. |
| 3 | Tighten the clamps securely until they are snug against the door. |
| 4 | Check the stability of the door by gently pushing it up and down. |
| 5 | If the door feels secure, you can proceed with adjusting the springs. |
3. Wear Proper Safety Gear
Put on safety glasses and work gloves to protect yourself from falling debris or accidental cuts and bruises.
Gathering Necessary Tools
To successfully adjust your garage door spring, you will need the following tools:
1. Safety goggles
2. Work gloves
3. Adjustable wrench or socket wrench
4. Screwdriver
5. Ladder
6. Lubricant
7. Tension measuring tool (optional)
3. Adjustable wrench or socket wrench
Adjustable wrenches and socket wrenches both have jaws that can be adjusted to fit different sizes of bolts and nuts. For adjusting garage door springs, you will need an adjustable wrench or socket wrench that is large enough to fit the nuts on the spring brackets or tension rod.
Adjustable wrenches are typically less expensive and more versatile than socket wrenches, but they can be more difficult to use in tight spaces. Socket wrenches are easier to use in tight spaces, but they can be more expensive and less versatile than adjustable wrenches.
When choosing an adjustable wrench, look for one that has a wide range of jaw sizes and a comfortable grip. When choosing a socket wrench, look for one that has a set of sockets that will fit the nuts on your garage door springs.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Adjustable wrench | To tighten or loosen the nuts on the spring brackets or tension rod |
| Socket wrench | To tighten or loosen the nuts on the spring brackets or tension rod |
Disconnecting the Door from the Spring
4. Removing the Safety L-Bracket from the Track
This step is crucial for ensuring safety while working with the spring. Locate the safety L-bracket, usually installed at the center of the track on each side of the garage door. This bracket prevents the door from falling if a spring breaks.
Use a wrench or socket set to carefully loosen the nuts that secure the L-bracket to the track. Do not remove the nuts completely yet. Once the nuts are loose, gently lift the door by hand to release tension on the springs.
With the tension released, you can now completely remove the safety L-bracket from the track. Keep it aside for later reinstallation.
| Safety Tips for Disconnecting the Door: |
|---|
|
Adjusting the Springs
Safety Precautions
Before adjusting garage door springs, ensure your safety by disconnecting the door from the opener. Wear gloves and safety glasses, and use proper tools to avoid injuries.
Materials Required
- Winding bars (two or more)
- Crowbar or screwdriver
- Socket wrench
- Measuring tape or level
- Lubricant (optional)
Procedure
1. Gather Information
Note the type of spring system and the tension recommended for your door. This information can be found on the door’s manual or tag.
2. Loosen Tension
Insert winding bars into the winding cones on each spring. Turn the bars clockwise to loosen the tension. Use a crowbar or screwdriver to hold the spring in place.
3. Measure Tension
Use a measuring tape or level to extend the door 6-8 feet off the ground. Measure the distance between the top of the door and the bottom bracket of the first spring.
4. Adjust Tension
Adjust the tension by turning the winding bars counterclockwise to tighten it or clockwise to loosen it. Rotate the bars evenly to distribute the tension. Measure the distance again to ensure you have reached the desired tension.
5. Wind and Lubricate
Wind each spring equally until the door balances. You will need an assistant to hold the door in place as you wind. Once tension is achieved, lubricate the springs with a suitable lubricant to extend their lifespan.
6. Reconnect and Test
Reconnect the door to the opener and test it. Adjust the opener’s settings if necessary to ensure smooth operation. Check the spring tension periodically to maintain proper balance.
Reconnecting the Door to the Spring
Once the spring is in place, it’s time to reconnect the garage door to it. This process involves a few steps:
1. Lift the Door Partially
With the help of an assistant, lift the garage door partially, about a quarter of the way up.
2. Slide the Trolley into the Track
Locate the trolley, which is the metal bracket that connects the spring to the door. Slide the trolley back into its track at the top of the door.
3. Hook the Cable onto the Drum
Take the cable that’s attached to the spring and hook it onto the drum, which is the cylindrical part on the side of the garage door opener unit.
4. Connect the Pulley to the Cable
Attach the pulley, which is a wheel-shaped device, to the end of the cable. This pulley will help guide the cable and distribute the weight of the door.
5. Tighten the Cable Tension
Once the pulley is in place, use a cable tensioner or a pair of pliers to tighten the tension of the cable. Make sure the tension is sufficient to support the weight of the door, but not so tight that it puts excessive strain on the spring.
6. Adjust the Spring Tension
To fine-tune the spring tension, make small adjustments to the adjustment bolts on the spring. Turning the bolts clockwise increases tension, while turning them counterclockwise decreases it. Rotate the bolts in small increments, and check the balance of the door after each adjustment.
| Adjustment Bolt Rotation | Effect on Spring Tension |
|---|---|
| Clockwise | Increases tension |
| Counterclockwise | Decreases tension |
Lubrication and Maintenance
Regular lubrication and maintenance are essential for ensuring the smooth and safe operation of your garage door. Here’s a comprehensive guide to keep your door in top condition:
Lubricating Moving Parts
Apply a lubricant specifically designed for garage doors to all moving parts, including hinges, rollers, cables, and springs. This will reduce friction and prevent premature wear.
Checking and Tightening Hardware
Inspect all nuts, bolts, and screws regularly for looseness. Tighten any loose hardware to prevent rattling or misalignment.
Inspecting Cables and Rollers
Check the condition of the cables and rollers for any signs of wear or damage. Replace any damaged components promptly to avoid accidents.
Cleaning the Garage Door
Wash the garage door occasionally with warm water and a mild detergent to remove dirt and grime. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or high-pressure washers, as they can damage the surface.
Inspecting the Bottom Seal
Ensure that the bottom seal of your garage door is in good condition to prevent water and debris from entering. Replace any worn or damaged seals.
Testing the Garage Door Opener
Test the garage door opener regularly by opening and closing the door several times. Check if it operates smoothly and stops promptly at the programmed limits.
Lubrication Frequency
| Component | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Hinges and Rollers | Every 3-6 months |
| Cables and Springs | Every 6-12 months |
| Garage Door Opener | Follow manufacturer’s instructions |
Troubleshooting Spring Adjustment Issues
8. Troubleshooting Spring Tension
Diagnosing and resolving spring tension issues requires careful attention to details. Here’s a detailed guide to troubleshoot and adjust spring tension:
- Incorrect Spring Size: Ensure you have the correct spring size for your garage door weight. A spring that’s too weak or too strong will affect tension balance.
- Worn or Broken Springs: Replace worn or broken springs immediately. Operating a door with faulty springs can lead to further damage and safety hazards.
- Misaligned Spring Attachments: Check if the spring attachments are properly aligned. Misalignments can cause uneven tension distribution and premature spring failure.
- Insufficient Lubrication: Lubricate the springs regularly to reduce friction and ensure smooth operation. Dry springs can bind and result in tension issues.
- Uneven Spring Tension: Manually push up the door to check the resistance at various points. Uneven resistance indicates uneven spring tension that needs adjustment.
- Torsion Spring Adjustment: If you have a torsion spring system, locate the adjustment cones on the vertical shafts. Slowly tighten or loosen the cones to adjust tension, ensuring equal resistance on both sides.
- Extension Spring Adjustment: For extension spring systems, adjust the tension by moving the pulleys closer or further away from the door brackets. Tighten the bolts to secure the pulleys in place.
- Professional Inspection: If you’re unable to resolve the spring tension issue, contact a qualified garage door technician for professional inspection and adjustment.
Tips for Safe Spring Adjustment
1. Safety First: Wear Gloves and Eye Protection
Before you begin, put on a pair of heavy-duty gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges. Additionally, wear safety glasses to shield your eyes from flying debris or snapped springs.
2. Locate the Springs
Identify the springs that need adjustment. Garage doors typically have two or four springs, located on either side of the door.
3. Determine Spring Type
Look at the springs to determine their type. Torsion springs are wound around a metal rod, while extension springs are hooked to the door frame.
4. Release Tension
Use a winding bar or pry bar to carefully release tension from the springs. This reduces the risk of injury in case the spring snaps.
5. Adjust Springs
Wind or unwind the torsion spring by turning the winding bar. For extension springs, adjust the hooks on the door frame.
6. Gradually Adjust
Avoid making sudden or large adjustments to the springs. Adjust them incrementally until the door moves smoothly and balances evenly.
7. Check Door Balance
Disconnect the door from the opener and lift it manually. If the door is balanced, it should stay in place without moving up or down.
8. Tighten Windings
Once the door is balanced, tighten the windings on the torsion spring or adjust the hooks on the extension springs to ensure the spring remains in place.
9. Additional Safety Precautions
Here are some additional safety precautions to consider:
| Precaution | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a Proper Winding Bar | Select a winding bar specifically designed for garage door springs to avoid slippage or breakage. |
| Inspect Springs Regularly | Check the springs for signs of damage or wear to prevent sudden failures. |
| Get Professional Help if Needed | If you are not comfortable adjusting garage door springs on your own, contact a qualified technician for assistance. |
When to Call a Professional
Calling a professional is advisable in the following situations:
1. Lack of Experience: If you have limited experience with DIY projects, it’s safer to seek professional assistance.
2. Complex Spring Systems: Modern garage doors often employ intricate spring systems that require specialized knowledge to adjust.
3. Extreme Tension: Garage door springs are under tremendous tension, and attempting to adjust them without proper training can be dangerous.
4. Severely Worn Springs: If your springs are severely worn or broken, they need to be replaced by a professional.
5. Signs of Damage: If you notice any signs of damage to the springs, such as cracks or rust, don’t attempt to adjust them.
6. Improper Installation: If the springs were not properly installed initially, they should be adjusted by a professional.
7. Electrical or Mechanical Issues: Electrical or mechanical problems with the garage door opener can also affect spring tension.
8. Liability Concerns: Improper spring adjustment can lead to accidents or injuries, so it’s best to leave it to the professionals.
9. Warranty Considerations: Adjusting garage door springs yourself may void the warranty.
10. Safety First: Garage door springs can be very dangerous if handled incorrectly. It’s always better to prioritize safety and let a qualified professional deal with them.
| Spring Type | Adjustment Method |
|---|---|
| Extension Springs | By adding or removing coils |
| Torsion Springs | By adjusting the tension on the shaft |
How To Adjust Garage Door Spring
Garage door springs are an important part of your garage door system. They help to lift and lower the door, and they also help to keep the door in place when it is closed. If your garage door springs are not properly adjusted, it can cause the door to malfunction or even become dangerous.
There are two types of garage door springs: torsion springs and extension springs. Torsion springs are mounted on a shaft above the door opening, while extension springs are mounted on brackets on either side of the door opening. Both types of springs work by storing energy when they are stretched or compressed. When the door is opened, the springs release their energy and help to lift the door. When the door is closed, the springs help to keep the door in place.
If your garage door springs are not properly adjusted, it can cause the door to malfunction or even become dangerous. For example, if the springs are too loose, the door may not be able to open or close properly. If the springs are too tight, the door may be difficult to open or close, and it could also put stress on the door opener.
It is important to have your garage door springs adjusted by a qualified technician. A technician will be able to inspect the springs and make sure that they are properly adjusted. They will also be able to lubricate the springs and make any other necessary repairs.
People Also Ask About How To Adjust Garage Door Spring
How do I know if my garage door springs need to be adjusted?
There are a few signs that your garage door springs may need to be adjusted. These include:
- The door is difficult to open or close.
- The door opens or closes too quickly.
- The door makes a lot of noise when it opens or closes.
- The door is not level.
How often should I have my garage door springs adjusted?
Garage door springs should be adjusted every few years, or more often if you use your garage door frequently. Adjusting the springs will help to keep your door operating smoothly and safely.
Can I adjust my garage door springs myself?
It is not recommended to adjust your garage door springs yourself. Garage door springs are under a lot of tension, and they can be dangerous if they are not handled properly. It is best to have a qualified technician adjust your springs.
