How long has it been since your garage door opener got some TLC? Neglecting regular maintenance is a sure way to shorten the lifespan and invite unnecessary breakdowns down the road.
With just a little proactive care a few times a year, you can keep your trusted garage door opener up and running reliably for many seasons to come without needing professional Garage Door Opener Repair in Chesapeake. Here are some basic tasks that take just minutes but make a big difference.
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Wipe Down Exterior
Dust, dirt and grease buildup can cause components to wear out prematurely. Grab a microfiber cloth and wipe down the exterior housing, arms, gears and tracks to remove debris. Pay special attention to moving parts.
Lubricate Moving Pieces
Apply a small amount of lightweight machine oil to lubricate springs, hinges, rollers and moving linkages. White lithium grease is also suitable for metal-on-metal surfaces. Slide parts back and forth to distribute oil evenly. Avoid over-lubricating electric components.
Tighten Hardware
Over time, bolts and screws can loosen from vibration. Inspect hardware securing parts like arms, brackets and covers. Use an adjustable wrench to tighten anything feeling loose without over-tightening. Replace rusted or stripped fasteners as needed.
Check Photo Eyes
Wipe dust from the photo eye lenses using a microfiber cloth dampened with distilled vinegar or window cleaner. Replace sticky tape if present. Make sure they beam is unobstructed and photo eyes face each other directly for proper alignment.
Test Manual Operation
Disengage the opener and lift the door manually checking for smooth operation and proper balance between springs and weight of door. Adjust spring tension if needed.
Replace Batteries
Keep backups on hand and swap in a fresh set regularly as part of upkeep, even if the old ones still work. Rechargeable types will save money in the long run.
With simple maintenance quarterly, you’ll keep garage door openers running reliably for years. Extend component life and prevent costly repairs down the road.
Kurt Avans is a home improvement blogger who strives to improve his life and the lives of others. He provides homeowners with helpful tips on how to renovate their homes. His goal is not only to provide easy-to-follow instructions, but also share his own personal experiences for those seeking guidance.
