June is National Garage Door Safety Month, making it the perfect time to review important safety practices for one of the most frequently used entry points in your home. Your garage door is the largest moving part of your house and plays a critical role in both convenience and security. We want to help homeowners across Northwest Ohio keep their garage doors operating safely and efficiently. Whether you have a traditional system or a modern smart opener, taking a few simple precautions can help prevent injuries and extend the life of your door.
1. Test the Auto-Reverse Function
Modern garage doors are equipped with an auto-reverse safety feature that prevents the door from closing if something is in its path. To test this:
- Place a solid object like a wooden block on the garage floor under the door
- Close the door using your remote or wall control
- The door should automatically reverse when it contacts the object
2. Check the Photo Eye Sensors
Photo eye sensors are located near the bottom of each side of your garage door. These sensors detect motion or obstructions in the path of the closing door. Clean the lenses with a soft cloth and ensure the sensors are aligned properly. Misaligned or dirty sensors are one of the most common reasons for door malfunctions.
3. Never Ignore Strange Noises or Jerky Movements
There are plenty of items to watch out for whether hearing strange noises or noticing jerky movements. If you hear your door make unusual noises such as grinding, squeaking, or popping sounds, there is something off with your door. Or if you are experiencing your door not properly opening or closing, then these could be signs of worn-out components or failing parts. Ignoring these issues will only make matters worse. We specialize in same-day service to inspect and repair these problems before they turn into larger safety hazards.
4. Keep Hands and Fingers Clear of Moving Parts
Pinch points along the panels and tracks can pose serious risks, especially to children. Always keep hands and fingers away from hinges, springs, and rollers. If your garage door does not feature pinch-resistant panels, it may be time to consider an upgrade.
5. Know How to Use the Manual Release
In case of a power outage or emergency, you should know how to disengage your automatic opener and operate the door manually. The red release cord allows you to safely lift the door. Practice this occasionally when the door is closed and the system is in good working order. If you have any questions or would like to have one of our technicians help you with this procedure, please let us know and we will happily assist you.
6. Schedule a Professional Safety Inspection
Garage door systems involve tension-loaded parts like springs, cables, and tracks. While there are situations where DIY could be applicable, in most cases attempting repairs without proper training can result in serious injury. Scheduling a professional garage door safety inspection at least once a year is what we recommend to all homeowners.. Our trained technicians check every component to ensure your door operates safely and reliably.
Your Safety is Our Priority
Simple maintenance and timely service can protect your family and extend the life of your door system. If you are unsure whether your garage door system is safe, contact us today. Servicing the Toledo area. we offer emergency garage door repair, safety inspections, opener replacements, and routine maintenance.
