As the seasons change, it’s a smart time to make sure your garage door is functioning properly and safely. A little bit of seasonal maintenance can go a long way in preventing future issues and ensuring your door operates smoothly all year long. Below are key areas to inspect—and when it’s time to call in a professional.

1. Inspect the Hardware

Take a close look at the moving components of your garage door system—springs, rollers, pulleys, cables, and tracks. Dirt buildup, greasy residue, and general wear and tear can all affect how well your door works. If you see rust, grime, or anything that looks worn or frayed, it’s a good idea to have a garage door technician check it out before it turns into a bigger problem.

2. Test the Auto-Reverse Safety Feature

Your garage door is equipped with a safety mechanism that should reverse the door if it hits an obstacle while closing. Place a solid object, like a block of wood, under the door and close it. If the door doesn’t automatically stop and reverse, that’s a serious safety concern. Avoid using the door until a professional can inspect and repair the issue.

3. Check the Door’s Balance

A properly balanced garage door should open easily by hand once it’s disconnected from the automatic opener. To check, close the door, pull the release handle to disconnect the opener, and try lifting it manually. If the door feels heavy, hard to lift, or doesn’t stay open on its own, it’s likely out of balance and needs professional adjustment.

4. Evaluate the Force Setting

To ensure the force setting is correct, try this simple test: Stand clear of the door’s path and begin closing it. As it lowers, gently try to stop it with your hands. The door should stop and reverse direction easily. If it keeps moving or requires significant force to stop, the settings need to be adjusted by a technician.

Don’t Ignore Warning Signs

Garage door systems are under a lot of tension and can become dangerous if they’re not properly maintained. If anything seems off—or if you’re unsure whether your system is working as it should—it’s always best to call in a trained professional. Regular maintenance is not just about convenience, it’s about safety.

Need help inspecting or servicing your garage door? Contact American Industrial Door today to schedule a tune-up or professional evaluation.