Author: jsanford

Garage Door Safety Tips in Indianapolis, IN

Top Tips for Keeping Your Garage Door Safe

Written by jsanford on January 12, 2022. Posted in Garage Door Services Indianapolis. No Comments on Top Tips for Keeping Your Garage Door Safe

According to one survey, six out of 10 American homes have a garage. When garage doors are in working condition, they can be an added convenience. But some faults can lead to accidents and even fatalities. Approximately 30,000 injuries per year happen due to garage door malfunctions. Here are some tips you ought to consider for your family’s safety.

Take Time to Learn Garage Door Features

Your garage door will come with safety features to prevent accidents. They may vary according to the model and manufacturer. But some features such as the photo-eye have been standard for garage openers for decades.

But to use safety features, you have to learn how to utilize them when there is an emergency. One of the most critical functions is mechanical release. It disengages the door when the photo eye and auto-reverse malfunction.

By learning the safety features, you won’t have to rush for the manufacturer’s manual in an emergency. And you will need to find out how it operates for routine testing of different mechanisms.

Be Cautious When the Door Is in Motion

Be cautious when the opener is closing or opening. Pay attention to pets and children running around the garage door. You ought to talk to your children about the dangers of playing when the door is in motion.

Also, avoid leaving the door open or partially closed. It can not only compromise your home’s security, but it could also be a hazard. Someone can get crushed under it when you reactive the opener.

You should watch your fingers when using the opener. As the panels are closing, your fingers can be pinched by the folds at the hinges. However, the most recent models have pinch-resistant hinges which prevent accidents.

It would help if you didn’t fiddle with the door’s mechanism. There are many parts of its mechanism that can lead to severe injuries. Consider calling Garage Door Doctor for quality repair and maintenance solutions in Indianapolis.

Keep an Eye on the Garage Door Opener

The opener to your automatic garage door can be dangerous in the hands of children. Kids can be curious, and they may pick up the remote and play with it. Always keep the remote where the little ones cannot get hold of it.

According to Pediatrics, the garage door opener is one of the devices responsible for 50,000 injuries of children. Don’t let small children play with the remote, even under supervision. The little ones can harm themselves or damage parts of the garage door mechanism.

Consider keeping the opener safe in the car away from the children’s reach. If you let them play with it, they may be tempted to use it when you are not around.

Change the Opener’s Codes

The latest models of garage door openers come with a feature that can automatically change the code. Every time you use the remote, it resets the code to prevent burglars from getting access to your home.

Unfortunately, some older models do not have the rolling code feature. You may want to change the code from time to time to keep your home safe. The changes are critical, especially if your neighbor’s garage was built around the same time. In such cases, your code may be similar to the garage opener next door.

You can check your manufacturer’s manual for instructions on how to change the code. Consider using alphanumeric characters and numbers, as you would with a regular password. Professionals from Garage Door Doctor in Indianapolis recommend changing the code at least twice a year.

If you find changing codes a chore, consider upgrading to a newer model with more convenient features. The most recent openers have Wi-Fi connectivity, vacation mode, and a guest password feature.

A garage door can last between 15 and 20 years. If your garage door is more than a decade old and showing signs of deterioration, consider getting a replacement. A newer model has fewer faults and better safety features for your home protection.

Test the Auto-Reverse Feature

The auto-reverse function has been a safety feature on garage door models for more than two decades. It prevents the door from crashing anyone or anything caught in between. If it detects even the slightest resistance, it will automatically reverse.

At Garage Door Doctor, we recommend our Indianapolis clients test the auto-reverse feature periodically. Fortunately, the process is as easy as placing a towel or paper rolls on the ground under the door. The door should reverse when it touches the object.

If your garage door doesn’t pass the test, you may want to call our professional team for troubleshooting. A faulty auto-reverse can be a hazard. It is also advisable to disconnect the door until the repairs are complete.

Perform Routine Garage Door Visual Checks

Make a point of visually inspecting your garage door every month to maintain safety. Check the fasteners, hinges, and brackets for loose connections. You can also look for signs of wear and tear, such as rusting and damage.

Inspect the door panels and handles. Are the handles away from the pinch points? If not, the door can injure your fingers. Make sure the door opens without any glitches. Check if the rollers remain within the track during its operation. Also, ensure the door opens fully and does not get stuck halfway through.

Torsion springs are amongst the most dangerous parts of the garage door. They carry the door’s weight, which could be anywhere between 130 and 400 pounds. You can visually inspect its mechanism, but don’t be tempted to fix it yourself. If the spring snaps, it can be deadly.

The torsion spring mechanism has a containment system that prevents broken components from flying dangerously into the air. You can check if the containment system is in place. The springs should be on a shaft and a cable passing through the center of the spring. If unsure, call a professional for inspections.

Schedule Routine Garage Door Maintenance

Your garage door has many intricate components that must work seamlessly for optimum efficiency and safety. But as with any other system, it can succumb to deterioration or malfunctioning parts.

Modern garage door models have multiple features to maximize safety and convenience. But these features make it even more complicated to fix. A routine visual inspection is recommended. However, always leave the repairs to an experienced technician.

It is also wise to observe routine maintenance at least once a year. You may be tempted to extend it to two years, but you risk voiding your warranty. You can confirm the terms of your warranty from the manufacturer. The conditions may vary according to the model or brand.

Routine maintenance by a technician is the best way to prevent accidents in your home. A professional can detect problems that could injure someone in your residence later. With routine maintenance, you can have peace of mind when using the garage door.

Garage Door Doctor is a family-owned and -operated company with years of experience serving residents of Indianapolis. Our team is BBB accredited, and we are also members of the International Door Association. We repair door springs, openers, and provide replacement and maintenance services for commercial and residential clients. Call us today for a 24-7 emergency service.

Garage Door Company Qualities in Indianapolis, IN

Must-have Qualities for a Garage Door Company in Indianapolis

Written by jsanford on November 20, 2021. Posted in Business. No Comments on Must-have Qualities for a Garage Door Company in Indianapolis

Whether you’re looking to invest in new garage doors or you need a reliable company to call for repairs, it can be challenging with so many companies in your area. Fortunately, by understanding the key qualities to look for in a great garage door company, you can choose one that will be trustworthy and experienced to assist you.

Specialty Area

In the garage door industry, there are a few specializations that you need to be aware of. The most common specialties are residential and commercial. Some companies will solely specialize in residential services while others will specialize in commercial garage door services. Additionally, some companies may focus solely on luxury residential doors. You’ll want to select a garage door company that specializes in the specific sub-set that you’re looking for.

Punctuality

A great way to help ensure that a potential company is the right choice is to see if they’re punctual. This means that they call you back in a reasonable amount of time and that they show up on time for your appointment. Most garage door companies will come out to your home to evaluate the state of your current garage door hardware and size up the space for your new door.

If they show up late for your initial consultation and they don’t call, it’s a likely indication that you may want to switch to a more reputable company. A business should be customer-focused and value your time as much as its own.

Warranty Coverage

Your new garage door should come with a warranty. Most warranties will last anywhere between one and five years, depending on the specific product that you purchase. Any reputable garage door company should provide you with physical warranty information so that you can review the coverage policy at your leisure.

Adequate Insurance

What happens if the garage door installer accidentally drops the door on your car? What happens if one of their employees gets injured while working at your house? It’s necessary to speak with any garage door installer about their insurance coverage.

You want to make sure that they’re adequately insured in the event that anything goes wrong during the installation process. Make sure that you’re verifying their limits as you want to ensure that their insurance policy is enough to cover the actual damages that may occur.

Proper Training

Your garage door installer should have technicians that are properly trained to do the job. Each garage door brand typically offers its own factory certification course that technicians can take to ensure they have the proper installation knowledge. Don’t be afraid to ask any garage door company how they train their technicians as you want to ensure they have adequate knowledge to get the job done right.

Notable Awards

Any good garage door company will have picked up awards and accommodations over their years in business. For example, the Expertise award for the Best Garage Door Repair Companies in Fishers points out that a company provides quality service that residents throughout the region trust. You’ll want to check for local, state, and even national awards.

Available 24/7

A good garage door company stands behind their work, and it meets the needs of their clients. Any company that you consider hiring should be available for all of your repair needs. This includes the overnight hours as we all know that when we’re having trouble with our garage, we don’t have time to waste. Whether it’s the inability to get your car out or the inability to close your door, you need an expert that is available 24/7 to respond to your service needs.

Years of Experience

One good way to determine whether or not a garage door company is worthy of your service is to look at their years of expertise. While supporting new companies is a great deed, it could come along with unwanted service mistakes that plague you.

Instead, select a garage door company that has years of experience, which shows that they know what they’re doing. It also ensures that they provide quality service. Companies that don’t provide great service aren’t likely to stay around for long in today’s online review environment.

Good Reviews

In this day and age, it’s so simple to jump online and find companies that have good reviews to their name. With the ability to review a company so easily, many people have jumped to these online platforms, like Yelp and Google Reviews, to provide their opinion about companies they love and hate.

Take a little bit of time and evaluate a company’s online reputation before contacting them. Ensure that they have good reviews from multiple people. If you notice multiple bad reviews that have similar stories, it’s a sign that you should avoid doing business with that garage door company.

They Answer Your Questions

As a consumer, it’s likely that you have various questions about your garage door installation process. Whether it’s determining the benefits of a wood door or understanding how the door functions, any good garage door company will take the time to fully answer your questions. If any company tries to speed through the process or skip over answering your questions, it’s time to consider contacting another garage door company.

They Showcase Prior Work

With pretty much every company having an online website and social media profiles, it’s easy to get the information you need about a company before you ever pick up the phone. Garage door companies that are proud of the jobs that they do will likely showcase their prior jobs. You can typically find these on their website or on social media pages. By reviewing a company’s prior jobs, you can ensure that they match what you’re looking for.

BBB Accreditation

Checking with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) is a way to help determine which garage door companies operate with integrity and ethics in a world with many potential options out there. When a company is accredited by the BBB, it shows that it has been properly vetted and is a trustworthy business to work with.

Additionally, when a business is BBB accredited, it means that they will work with the BBB to solve any complaints that you may have about the company. Businesses that have an A+ rating from the BBB are known to work with great integrity and ethics to ensure that all customer concerns and complaints are addressed quickly.

Transparency

Any good garage door company will operate with a high level of transparency. This means that they will be clear about any repair and installation costs from the start. You should never have to worry about hidden fees that get tacked on after a service is completed.

Professional Garage Door Installation

Garage Door Doctor is your professional garage door installer servicing the Indianapolis region. We’re here for all of your residential and commercial garage door installation and emergency repair needs. Our experts strive to provide excellent service and because of this, we’ve been featured in the top eight garage door repair companies in Fisher, IN. Call us today to get assistance with your garage doors!

Garage Door Troubleshooting in Indianapolis, IN

How to Spot and Troubleshoot Common Garage Door Problems

Written by jsanford on October 14, 2021. Posted in Garage Door Repair Indianapolis. No Comments on How to Spot and Troubleshoot Common Garage Door Problems

Your garage door opens and closes approximately 1,500 times a year. With a weight exceeding 150 pounds, it can put a lot of pressure on the underlying mechanism. In this article, you’ll find tips on how to troubleshoot and fix your garage door.

Your Garage Door Won’t Open or Close

When the garage door does not open or close, troubleshoot the opener first. You can start by checking the condition of the batteries and replace them if they are dead. You can locate the batteries at the back of the transmitter.

It may also not be a fault from your transmitter but simply that you are merely out of range. The range for most transmitters is about four or five car lengths, or 50 feet, from the opener. Moving closer should get the door to open.

There could be barriers preventing the transmitter on the garage door from receiving the signal. When looking for obstructions, also make a point of checking for any signs of damage and schedule repairs if necessary.

It is also possible that the motor is defective. In that case, you should consult a repair technician to diagnose the garage door. Consider talking to Garage Door Doctor’s team for prompt garage door repairs in anywhere in or around Indianapolis.

Garage Door Opens but Does Not Close

If the garage door opens but does not close completely, the most probable cause is a faulty safety sensor. The photo eye sensors are usually on either side of the door. These devices prevent it from closing when there is an obstruction.

Start by examining the photo-eye sensors and ensure their alignment is correct. The easiest way to check for problems is to measure the height of the sensors. The distance from the floor should be the same for both if the alignment is correct.

Besides misalignment, another issue is dust on the lens. You can use a microfiber cloth to wipe off the grime and dust while taking care not to scratch the surface.

After cleaning and aligning the photo-eye sensors, test the door. If the door does not close, it may be a fault in another part of your system. You can call a garage door technician to troubleshoot and fix the opener.

Door Closes but Immediately Opens

If the door closes and then opens, it is probably an issue with the limit switch settings. It can happen when you have a new garage door installation or an old model that needs a reboot to work correctly.

The limit switch settings signal the door how far to move when closing. If the range is set too high, it will close and open again. The opener will conclude that something is obstructing the door and will initiate the safety mechanism.

The dials for the limit switch settings can vary depending on the model of your opener. You can adjust the limit switch gradually by turning the dial in small increments. Keep turning the dial until the door stops after it closes. You can consult the opener’s manual for the location of the switch for your model.

Garage Door Opens Partially

If there is a problem with the limit switch adjustment, your garage door may fail to open completely. The door may rise before stopping halfway. Incorrect limit switch settings may signal the opener to stop before the door ascends to the top.

If adjusting the limit switch does not solve the problem, the rollers could be a cause. The rollers might need lubrication, or they may be defective and require a replacement.

Another source of the problem might be a warped metal track. For the door to open and close properly, the alignment must be precise. Otherwise, it will open and close unevenly. With time, the problem will become worse as the heavy garage door moves along the defective tracks.

You will need a level to check if the alignment is correct. Typically, there will be rubbing sounds as the door moves past the point where the tracks have warped. You can unscrew the tracks and use a rubber mallet to push them back into position gently.

If it gets to the point where the door does not open at all, the damage may be too severe to fix. In such situations, you should consult a garage door professional. Garage Door Doctor has the knowledge and expertise to repair your garage door for you.

The Motor Is Running, but the Door Does Not Move

Sometimes, the motor will continue running, but the door does not move at all. In such instances, it could either be an issue with the limit switch or the belt.

If the issue is with the limit settings, the door may close while the motor keeps running. Most often, this is an installation problem. An adjustment of the switch should fix it.

If the motor is still running, it could also be an issue with the trolley. It often happens when someone pulls the emergency release rope. Pulling it upwards and towards the opener should re-engage the motor. You can consult the manufacturer’s manual for specific instructions for your model.

If none of the solutions work, it could be a fault with the system. It is possible that the gears are worn out and cannot engage the motor properly. The emergency release rope may have gotten stuck. In either case, a professional should diagnose and repair your system.

Troubleshooting Unusual Sounds

If you have a noisy garage door, it is often an indication of a fault in the system. A vibrating sound when opening or closing indicates the nuts and bolts are loose. A high-pitched squealing noise is a sign of defective hinges. Squeaking can also indicate friction due to a lack of lubrication.

Banging and rattling noises are usually an issue with the door’s balance. You may also notice that it takes time for the door to open and close or that the movement is irregular. Ignoring the problem may damage the spring and cable assembly.

One of the sounds you should never overlook is a loud banging noise. You may hear this when the torsion springs break while you are at home. The springs have a lifespan of 10,000 cycles and may give in when they exceed their limit.

A broken spring can be dangerous to occupants of your home. Torsion springs also support the door’s cables. If you don’t address the issue in a timely fashion, these will also break. That’s why a prompt repair is crucial to avoid unnecessary expenses.

Tips for Preventing Garage Door Problems

Whenever you detect a technical problem, you should schedule repairs as soon as possible. You can troubleshoot and fix issues with the settings or alignment of the sensors. If components of the system are defective, however, you risk serious injury.

Approximately 30,000 people each year report sustaining injuries when trying to fix a garage door. You can prevent faults in the future by scheduling maintenance services at least every 18 months. Maintenance helps you save on repair costs while reducing the risk of accidents in your home.

For trusted and prompt garage door solutions in Indianapolis, you can rely on Garage Door Doctor. We have the experience to handle projects of any size or scope, and we’re accredited by the BBB. Our crew has earned top ratings on Google Reviews and Yelp thanks to our outstanding customer service. Contact us today for more information or an appointment.

Fall Maintenance Tasks to Keep Your Garage Door Safe and Efficient

Written by jsanford on September 15, 2021. Posted in Garage Door Services Indianapolis. No Comments on Fall Maintenance Tasks to Keep Your Garage Door Safe and Efficient

Your garage door acts as a barrier between weather elements and the interior. In the colder months, it will be subject to moisture, rain, and fluctuating temperatures. Regular maintenance is essential to keep you and your home safe. Here are the top maintenance tasks to do in the fall.

Inspect Garage Door Mechanisms

You may start maintenance with an inspection of the door’s track mechanism. Inspect the tracks on either side of the door and ensure that there is no debris blocking its movement. You can test it by switching to manual mode. Try opening and closing the door. It should open smoothly without glitches.

Also, check that the photosensors are working. The photosensors are installed on either side of the door at no more than six inches above the ground. The safety device prevents the door from closing when there is an obstacle in between. You should ensure the sensor is secure on the side of the door.

You can check if the sensors are working by placing an object at its height. If you press the close button, the door should not close. If it does, it could be a safety hazard. In such instances, you can consult Garage Door Doctor, a top-rated service provider in Indianapolis.

Test the Garage Door Spring

Your garage door spring can continue to function efficiently for up to 10,000 cycles of closing and opening. During the summer months, the door can take a beating from all the activity in your home. Therefore, you should test the spring to ensure that it has not sustained any damage during this time.

You can start the evaluation by visually examining the condition of the spring. However, sometimes a faulty spring stretches instead of snapping. In either case, you may notice the door has an imbalance. The top half may appear to be out of alignment with the rest of the frame.

Another sign of a broken spring is when the motor is working and the door is not moving. You may also hear a sharp screeching sound as it struggles to open. It indicates that the spring is not moving with the motor, and therefore, it is faulty.

If the spring is faulty, using the opener may lead to further damage. At Garage Door Doctor, we recommend calling a technician immediately. Otherwise, the rails may bend, or gears may strip off from the opener’s mechanism.

The cables and pulley system should also be in good condition to support the weight. Look out for cords with worn-out or fraying strands. Consult a professional if you suspect an issue with the pulley mechanism. Such complications can lead to higher repair costs in the future.

Observe a Regular Cleaning and Lubrication Routine

By autumn, your garage door may have accumulated debris and dust. Before cleaning it, visually inspect the exterior of a metallic door for rusting. Wood is prone to warping because it is exposed to excess moisture. If the surface has rust or peeling paint, you should sand it and repaint it for maximum protection.

You can clean a wooden garage door with a dry cloth. For plastic, metal, or other synthetic surfaces, use a soft cloth and an appropriate cleaner.

When cleaning, make a point of lubricating every moving part. Friction on rollers and the tracks can cut down the lifespan of your garage opener. You can apply a high-quality lubricant twice a year to keep it efficient.

You can apply oil on rusty parts of the torsion springs to stop further corrosion. If the opener has a drive chain, you can also spray lubricant on it. However, you should not lubricate the belt drive.

Garage door professionals recommend lubricating with silicone or lithium-based grease. Oil products like WD-40 are degreasers, which can increase friction. Use a grease spray for an accurate application. After lubricating parts, wipe up any spills to prevent staining the opener or the garage floor.

Inspect the Weather Stripping

In the winter, the garage door’s surface will be subject to extreme cold, snow, and ice. Therefore, the door must have adequate weather-stripping at the bottom. Replace the entire stripping if it has broken down.

For wooden openers, the weather-stripping is secured in place by a nail. Metal doors will have an aluminum stripping holding up a u-shaped rubber gasket. The rubber gasket is much easier to replace than other types of weather-stripping.

The door may also have vinyl and rubber on its sides to stop rain or wind. Vinyl can warp when exposed to moisture, rain, or snow. If old or worn out, replace it and ensure that the flange is firm against the door for a perfect seal.

Test Your Garage Door Balance

During your inspection, you should also be sure that the garage door is level. When the weight balances evenly across the springs and pulleys, it exerts less stress on the system. If you continue opening an unbalanced door, it will eventually cause the spring to break prematurely.

A visual examination can tell you if it is level. A slanting door indicates that the force is not being exerted equally on the springs. In such instances, you must call a garage door technician before the door breaks.

Another balancing test is to lift the door until it is halfway open. When you release it, it should remain in place. But if it slams shut, it means that the door is out of balance.

You may also notice that it takes longer than usual to shut or close the garage. Unbalanced doors are noisy, producing strange sounds when you open or close them. After lubricating moving parts, if it still makes noises, you may want to schedule repairs.

It is also worth noting that a professional should fix defective parts such as the spring. The internal components of the opener can be dangerous for an inexperienced person. Also, do not attempt to open the door if the spring breaks. According to statistics, more than 20,000 people sustain injuries annually from garage door accidents.

Organize Your Garage and Schedule Maintenance Service

Organizing your garage can help increase the lifespan of the door. In the cold season, ventilation is essential for preventing moisture accumulation that could cause water damage. Therefore, rearranging and clearing areas of your garage prevents rust and warping.

Your maintenance routine will depend on the type and number of layers on the door. A triple-layered door offers additional protection and is quieter than a single-layered one. However, the multiple layers make it heavier and more expensive.

Ideally, you should schedule maintenance service at least once every 18 months. For busy homes or commercial establishments, once a year or more is recommended. The garage door is one of the heaviest items in your home. Ensuring that it is in working condition will prevent accidents and keep your home safe.

As a family-owned and -operated company, Garage Door Doctor has been offering unbeatable solutions since 2009 for commercial and residential garage door sales, service, and installation. We provide customized services to meet your home or business’s needs. Our team has a reputation for our honesty and professionalism. Call the Garage Door Doctor’s help desk today for an estimate of our services in Indianapolis.

Garage Door Cleaning in Indianapolis, IN

How to Clean Garage Door

Written by jsanford on August 3, 2021. Posted in Garage Door Services Indianapolis. No Comments on How to Clean Garage Door

It can be difficult to find time to clean your garage door and maintain your home. Keeping your garage door looking great, however, is important for a number of reasons. Proper cleaning not only makes the surface of the door look good but it can prevent more serious structural issues from occurring. Additionally, curb appeal, warranty, and other things that you may not even consider can also provide tremendous benefits. Here are some things you can do to keep your garage door in the best shape possible.

What You’ll Need to Give It a Thorough Wash

Over time, your garage door will collect dirt, dust, and other debris. Giving it a proper wash with the right cleaning supplies is crucial for best results. Here’s what you’ll need to get the job done the right way.

Cleaning Solution

Even for an excellent clean, fancy soaps aren’t necessary. In fact, dishwasher soap or another mild detergent is usually perfect for the job. Once you get your hands on the soap, combine one cup of it with two gallons of warm water in a bucket for an ideal solution.

Non-Abrasive Sponges and Cloths

Your garage door can be sensitive to abrasive tools, so it’s imperative that you use a more gentle cleaning utensil like a soft sponge or bath cloth. You want to avoid accidentally scratching or damaging the door at all costs. You’ll also need some dry cloths to dry the door with after the cleaning process.

Step Ladder

Finally, you’ll need a step ladder so you can reach the highest parts of the door. Being at that height will also help you thoroughly inspect the job you’ve done before drying.

Get Scrubbing!

Once your supplies are in order, you’re ready to get to work. Although the scrubbing process is fairly self-explanatory, there are some things you should keep in mind to do the best job possible.

First, since you’re using a non-abrasive cleaning utensil, don’t be afraid to scrub the surface hard. If this is the first time you’re cleaning your garage door in several years, there’s probably a good amount of grime stuck on it. It’s worth taking some extra time and doing a good job.

You might encounter a spot with dirt that’s extremely caked on the door. When some extra elbow grease can’t get the job done, you can resort to a bleach and water mixture instead. For the optimal solution, mix one cup of bleach with one gallon of water. Bleach solutions should be used sparingly and carefully, as overdoing it can cause damage to the garage.

The weatherstripping and trim around the door are important to touch upon, too. In order for the door to look and function at its best, clean weatherstripping and trim are vital. Additionally, both the interior and exterior of the door should be scrubbed for the best results.

If you have a wood garage door, a thorough cleaning may result in minor erosions in your finish. If this happens, it may be necessary to give it a fresh coat of paint or stain to your existing finish or even refinish the door completely.

Things to Strictly Avoid While Washing Your Garage Door

You may be tempted to experiment with different methods of washing your garage door that is more convenient and take less time. While it’s great to think creatively, here are some practices that should be avoided.

Don’t Mix a Cleaning Solution With Bleach

As stated previously, bleach should be used solely for the toughest stains. When bleach mixes with your cleaning solution, either in the bucket or on the door itself, it can ruin the effectiveness of the solution and even diminish your door’s quality. The cleaning solution should be wiped off before bleach is applied. Furthermore, mixing bleach with other chemicals can be unsafe.

Pressure Washers Should Never Be Used

Even though grime could be stuck to the door, using a pressure washer to apply more power should never be considered. The integrity of your door should be of the utmost importance, and the process of washing it should never pose any risk of harming it. It is safe to use a hose with relatively gentle water pressure to wash off your garage door.

Don’t Call it a Day Until You’re Satisfied With the Result

When the cleaning process is complete, you should be happy with what you see. Making sure all parts of the garage door are clean, especially the bottom, is worth the necessary time. Also, take the time to use cloths to dry off the door to prevent water spots.

Waxing Your Garage Door

If your garage door is made of steel, it’s necessary to wax it as the last step in the cleaning process. A layer of wax to finish it off won’t only prevent wear and tear but will promote resistance to dirt and grime. If you live in an area that frequently experiences harsh weather, this is particularly important. You should aim to wax your steel garage door twice a year. It’s best to wax immediately after cleaning.

Only liquid waxes should be used on your door. A typical automotive wax is usually sufficient, and paste wax should never be applied. If you’re not sure how to properly apply wax, it’s worth doing some research before attempting to apply wax.

Restoring an Oxidized Garage Door

Oxidation of your garage door, which can make it rust, is caused by the build-up of dirt, salt, and moisture. Here’s how you can restore your door if oxidation has seized control.

Start by washing and drying the door by using the process described above. Dealing with oxidized parts of the door can only work when the door is free of grime and completely dried off.

Next, pour white vinegar into a spray bottle. Spray the rusted areas and use steel wool to scrub the area. Since steel wool is a somewhat abrasive cleaning utensil, be extra careful while scrubbing, making sure to only remove the rust without damaging the door.

You’ll now want to roughen the entire door with medium-grit sandpaper. This will prepare the door for a coat of primer.

Once the entire door is thoroughly sanded, paint it with a coat of primer that contains zinc chromate. This will help stop oxidation from happening in the future. A paint roller works well for flat parts of the door, but a paintbrush may be needed as well.

Finally, to ensure your door’s protection from future oxidation, you’ll want to apply a coat or two of rust-resistant paint. This will also help to hide the primer.

When your garage door needs cleaning, you can count on us at Garage Door Doctor to offer top-notch service in Indianapolis, IN, and the surrounding areas. We also offer garage door repair, garage door spring repair and replacement, and commercial garage door services. As members of the International Door Association, we offer 24/7 emergency services for whatever issues you may be dealing with. Being upfront with our customers about every aspect of what we do is at the heart of who we are. Give us a call today and we’ll give your garage door the makeover it’s been needing.

Why Won’t My Garage Door Close?

Written by jsanford on July 26, 2021. Posted in Garage Door Services Indianapolis. No Comments on Why Won’t My Garage Door Close?

If you have a garage door that will not close or is not closing all the way, many factors could be causing the issue. Sometimes, these factors are simple problems that you can swiftly and smoothly fix. Other times they are more complex issues that require intensive labor, repair parts and expert knowledge about garage door repair.

Misaligned Tracks

One of the most common reasons a garage door is not closing is because of misaligned tracks. The tracks are two rails that run parallel to each other and to the garage door. The garage door itself runs vertically up and down these tracks when opening and closing.If the tracks are not exactly parallel with each other, then your garage door will have issues properly closing.

The only way to fix this issue is to identify where the tracks are not parallel. Once it is determined why and where the tracks are no longer parallel, it will require restoring the tracks to the appropriate position. The tracks may be beyond restoration and could need replacing entirely.

Damaged Tracks

Similar to misaligned tracks, damaged tracks can also keep your garage door from closing. Track damage is typical with heavy-duty garage doors. Over time, the wear and tear from opening and closing heavy garage doors takes its toll on the tracks resulting in debilitating bends, blockages and warping of the rail.

Long-term use may result in physical obstructions whose removal allows the garage door to shut completely. Like with misaligned tracks, the only way to fix track damage is to identify where the track is faulty. Repairs may be possible, but depending on the extent of the damage, replacing the track may be the only option. Not addressing track damage will only worsen the situation and potentially become a danger to you and your loved ones.

Smudged Sensor

Garage door sensors are one of the most vital components of your garage door system. These sensors are small beam emitters, typically mounted close to the ground on either side of your garage door. These sensors shoot an invisible beam of light across the opening of your garage door. A dirty sensor may be keeping your garage door from closing. When something disrupts the light beam from these sensors, they send a signal to the receiver that prevents the garage door from closing.

Take a rag or cloth and wipe off any dust or particulate buildup on the lens of your sensors. Once both lenses are completely clear of debris, your garage door should close. If it is not closing, the safety in the sensor may be faulty, or it could be an issue with another component of your garage door system, in which case our team can help find an appropriate solution.

Malfunctioning Safety Sensor

After clearing your sensor lenses of dirt and your garage door is still not closing, the issue may be that your sensors have stopped receiving power. Usually, there is a green light on both sensors that indicate they are receiving power. If the light is off on both sensors, then they are not fully powered. Loss of electricity may happen if a power cable gets unplugged, a fuse blows, or a power outage occurs.

If the sensors are fully powered, then they may be misaligned. The misaligned sensors will not display a green light, similar to a power loss. If the light is not green, readjust the sensors until they are perfectly aligned and the light turns green.

Depleted Remote Control Battery

If your garage door is not closing, the issue may be with your garage door remote control. If your garage door is not responding to your remote control, try your wall switch or control panel. If your garage door closes when you use the wall switch, the issue is most likely a dead battery in your garage door remote. Replace the dead battery with a fresh one and try your remote again. If the problem persists, but you can still close your garage door with your wall switch, then your garage door opener may need to be reprogrammed or replaced entirely.

Faulty Garage Door Remotes

Garage door openers have a relatively small effective range. After replacing your remote battery with a fresh one and syncing it with your system, make sure you are using it within a distance that should work. If you are in the appropriate range of the system and it is still not closing, the issue may be the antenna on the receiver. The antenna is on the opener itself. Make sure your opener is clear of debris and anything else that may impede the signal. If you find that the signal range of your remote is lacking, use an extension kit to boost the effective range of your remote.

If you are on the same frequency as the opener of a neighbor, then their receiver may be interrupting your signal. Alleviate this by altering the transmission frequency of your remote if you are having issues with your remote.

Adjusting Limit Switches

Invalid limit settings may be the reason your garage door is not closing. The limit switches determine how far your garage door needs to move to close or open entirely. Incorrect limit settings are the common cause of garage doors closing all the way but reopening or not closing completely.

Limit settings that are too high trigger a faulty reading and cause the door to reopen because the receiver believes the door has hit an obstacle. Adjusting these settings to the correct level could get your door to close all the way, but the adjustment process is tricky. Extreme adjustments may cause your garage door to crash down, causing damage. It’s highly recommended for your safety that this be performed by a trusted, experienced garage door technician.

Active Disconnect Switch

An activated disconnect switch may be keeping your garage door from closing. If your opener motor runs without the door closing, then your disconnect switch is probably enabled. The disconnect switch connects to the typically bright red emergency cord. The disconnect could have been pulled accidentally or not disabled after the last time in use.

Disabling your disconnect switch is a relatively simple process, but it must be done correctly; otherwise, it could be dangerous. Our technicians can safely manually lower your garage door to the down position to do this. Your garage door must be in the down position. If you leave your garage door open when deactivating the safety switch, your garage door may slam down. If your garage door is stuck open, contact us for assistance. Do not attempt to brute force the door down. Forcing the door shut could cause majorly expensive damage.

Once your garage door is in the down position, we can pull the emergency cord towards the door until the spring lever extends and slide the door manually until it attaches to the trolley. We can also use your garage door remote to automatically reattach your garage door to the trolley. When the door reattaches, you should hear an audible click, and your garage door will be moving along the tracks as usual.

Your Local Garage Door Experts

Garage Door Doctor is the most accomplished garage door installation and repair specialist in the Indianapolis and Bloomington metro areas. We have the experience, knowledge and skills to get your garage door back on track. Give us a call today or contact us online for all of your garage door service needs!

Garage Cooling Solutions in Indianapolis, IN

How to Cool a Garage

Written by jsanford on June 14, 2021. Posted in Garage Doors Indianapolis. No Comments on How to Cool a Garage

A warm garage can offer an ideal environment for you to work on some projects during winter. However, a warm garage during summer may not be ideal. Without adequate air conditioning and ventilation, the interior of your garage could get up to 20 degrees hotter than the outside. In other words, your garage can become virtually uninhabitable as the weather gets hotter. However, this does not mean that you cannot work or relax in your garage during summer. Below is a rundown of some tips you can count on to keep your garage cool and comfortable even as the weather outside gets hotter.

Remove Incandescent Lights

A lot of homeowners don’t invest wisely when it comes to garage lighting. They just hang cheap incandescent lights and assume that the lighting is okay as long as they can see what they need to see. Unfortunately, incandescent lights can increase temperatures in the garage because most of their energy is released as heat instead of light. In addition to increasing the temperatures of your garage, incandescent lights can put your garage at the risk of catching fire. Besides, incandescent lights are more inefficient, meaning that they can significantly increase your energy bills. Therefore, to keep your garage cool, safe, and comfortable, replacing any incandescent light bulbs with LEDs can be a huge improvement.

Get the Garage Walls Insulated

Most homeowners avoid investing in garage insulation. This makes garages some of the least insulated or the most poorly insulated rooms in many homes. Unfortunately, this makes them vulnerable to temperature fluctuations. During winter, they can get extremely cold, and when summer comes, these rooms can get unbearably hot. If you typically spend a considerable amount of time in your garage, you need to ensure its walls are adequately insulated. Wall insulation will go a long way in keeping the temperatures of your garage comfortable throughout the years without spending too much on heating and air conditioning.

Get an Air Conditioner

This seems like the most obvious technique to keep your garage cool. However, air conditioners can be quite expensive, and therefore, you should consider investing in an air conditioner for your garage only if you are going to be spending a lot of time there. Some suitable air conditioners for a garage include ductless wall-mounted mini-splits and window air conditioners. If your garage does not have windows, you can go for a through-the-wall air conditioner. If you are afraid that having an air conditioner in your garage will significantly increase your energy bills, you can invest in smart AC controllers. A smart AC controller will help you manage the operation of your garage air conditioner from your smartphone, which will go a long way in helping you keep your garage cool at the minimum cost possible.

Try a Dehumidifier

If the air in your garage is too humid, it can make the temperature of your house feel hotter than it actually is. As such, you could experience a soggy and uncomfortable feeling, making you sweat profusely. If you have sensitive furniture, goods, or electrical equipment, the high levels of humidity can make them susceptible to getting damaged by rust, fungus, or even mildew. If you live in a highly humid area, it may make sense for you to invest in a dehumidifier. In addition to keeping your garage cool, a dehumidifier will go a long way in protecting your belongings against damages associated with excessively moist air.

Try a Swamp Cooler

If you live in a dry area where humidity is extremely low, an air conditioner or a dehumidifier may not be an ideal way of keeping your garage cool. This is because although these systems can be effective in cooling your garage, they also remove humidity from the air. But when humidity is too low, you do not want to reduce it further. This is why investing in a swamp cooler makes more sense for people living in relatively dry areas. A swamp cooler will rely on water to not only chill but also moisten the air in your garage. Compared to air conditioners, swamp coolers are inexpensive to buy and install, and they cost less to operate and maintain.

Try Fans

In some cases, keeping your garage cool can be made possible by simply investing in a fan. A fan will push the temperatures in your garage down in several ways. For instance, it will improve the circulation of air, making your garage ventilation system more efficient. A fan will also cause a strong airflow on your body, which will increase the rate of evaporation from your skin, and consequently, make you feel cool and comfortable. However, you need to remember that fans are only effective in moderately warm areas. Therefore, if your garage tends to get too hot during summer, it is imperative for you to know that a fan might not effectively manage to keep it cool.

Declutter your Garage

If you use your garage for storing a lot of tools, machines, and other things, they can take up a significant amount of space which can negatively affect the flow of air in your garage. When the flow of air is blocked, it will be harder to keep your garage cool. Reduced airflow in your garage can also encourage the buildup of hot air and eventually make your garage uninhabitable. Therefore, if your garage is housing things you no longer need, you should start thinking of how you can dispose of them. You can also invest in shelves, cabinets, and toolboxes to keep your garage more organized and minimize clutter.

Improve Ventilation

Improving your garage ventilation is another effective way of keeping your garage cool during summer. Since hot air naturally rises, installing roof vents will allow hot air to go out, leaving the temperatures of your garage relatively cooler and more comfortable. You can also improve your garage ventilation by installing garage door vents. When the temperatures outside are reasonably low, you can keep the vents open to allow cool air to get into your garage. Adequate ventilation can also ensure that the fumes from your vehicle and machines operated in your garage leave your garage quickly. If the existing vents are not effectively cooling your garage, you can go for an active ventilation system. Although they are quite pricey, active ventilation systems are more effective and efficient when it comes to keeping a room cool. This type of system can be installed on the walls or the roof of your garage.

The Bottom Line

As you can see, if you spend a significant amount of time in your garage, then you have to find a way of keeping it cool, particularly during summer. There are several things you can do to this end, as explained above. If you need a garage door expert to help you insulate your garage door or even install garage door vents, Garage Door Doctor LLC is an excellent garage door expert to consider. We are a renowned garage door company providing high-quality garage doors and garage door services in and around Indianapolis. Get in touch with us today for more information about our company and services!

Garage Door Opener in Indianapolis, Indiana

How To Open Garage Door Manually

Written by jsanford on May 7, 2021. Posted in Garage Door Services Indianapolis. No Comments on How To Open Garage Door Manually

An automatic or electronic garage door provides convenience and protection. However, you need to be prepared for occasions when your door requires manual opening. For example, one morning, you may need to rush to work or get the kids to school, but there is a power outage. You then realize that the garage door won’t automatically open since you don’t have a battery backup.

Other times, you pull into the driveway near the garage after a long day at work only to realize that you can’t get your car inside because your automatic opener is faulty or you lost your remote control. Knowing how to open the garage door manually is essential in case of emergencies. Here are practical steps that you can follow.

1. Disconnect the Automatic Garage Door Opener

If you can access the garage from the inside, the first step is to unplug the automatic garage door opener. Look for the electric garage door opener at the base of the trolley track on the ceiling, and pull out the power cord.

2. Disengage the Automatic Opener From the Garage Door

Begin by locating the emergency release cord. In a closed garage, the emergency cord hangs loosely from the ceiling usually near the front part of the door. Pull down the red handle hanging from the cord until you hear a clicking sound. If you find it hard to pull the rope, there is a possibility that the garage door isn’t completely closed. Push the door to close it tightly, and then try pulling the cord once more. The main aim here is to disconnect the door from the automatic opener so that it operates manually.

If your only access to the garage is through the locked door, you will need to use a different mechanism. Prepare a long wire with a hook at the end to help you reach the emergency release rope. Climb onto a ladder and push your wire through a crack in the garage door frame. Once the wire is inside the garage, aim it a few feet below the ceiling to get the red emergency cord. Hook the wire onto the cord’s handle and then pull. Some garages have a window at the top, and this is an added advantage. You can see the handle and attach it to the wire quickly. Be very careful during this operation to avoid injuries.

3. Manually Lift the Garage Door

Now grab the lower part of the door and lift it till it fully opens. If you are having trouble lifting the door because of its heavy weight, then it’s possible that the spring is broken. Keep in mind that the automatic door opener doesn’t raise the door. Rather, it moves the springs to open or close the door. If you have a broken spring, call in a professional to repair it as soon as possible.

Be careful while operating your garage door manually. A strong wind can cause the door to slam down. Once you open the garage, observe the door for a few minutes to ensure that it stays open before driving your car in. If the door can’t stay open long enough, you can prop open it with something sturdy. Also, keep the doorway clear, and don’t allow children to play near the garage door to avoid injuries.

You shouldn’t leave your door unlocked and unattended for too long. Once you take the car in or out of the garage, gently slide the door until it firmly connects with the ground. The door’s weight is what will keep it shut. Avoid letting the door fall and slam itself. This will only weaken the track and damage the door.

4. Lock the Door Manually

Since you disconnected the automatic opener, your door’s locking mechanism is inactive. You now need to use the metallic lock on the garage door to keep it closed and secure everything stored inside. Slide the bolt to the side to lock into the door track’s rail. If the door doesn’t have a manual lock bar, you can use a C-clamp to keep it from opening.

5. Reconnect the Opener

To operate your garage electronically, you need to re-engage the automatic garage door opener. First, ensure that your door is fully closed. Pull the emergency release cord towards the entrance to compress the spring lever and allow the mechanism to reconnect. When the switch at the end of the emergency cord moves into place and re-engages, you will hear a click.

Alternatively, you can climb up using a ladder and pull the lever directly. Reconnect the door with the trolley track by raising it about 1 to 2 feet until you hear a loud click on the track. If the power issue has already been resolved, you can use the door control panel or the remote to reconnect the door with the track. Open and close the door automatically to test it. If you hear any unusual sounds or if the door seems shaky, there could be a problem with the connection, and you need to seek professional help.

6. Use the Emergency Door Kit if Your Garage Has One

If you have a newer model garage door with an emergency kit, it’s easier to open it manually. Locate the door kit, insert a key into the keyhole, and turn it. Once you see a metal node, pull it from the keyhole. This will quickly disengage the automatic mechanism to allow manual operation of the garage door. Note that this option is only possible if your door has the emergency key feature.

Contact a Professional if You Need Help With Your Garage Door

You will avoid the inconvenience of dealing with a garage door that won’t open in case of a power outage or when the electric mechanisms malfunction if you learn how to open it manually. Ensure that you close the garage as soon as you are done using it. Read your manual to guide you in locating the pull cord and understand how everything works.

If your garage won’t open even after trying out all the above methods, seek professional assistance. A technician can help diagnose the cause of the problem and fix it. It’s also a good idea to install a garage door with a backup battery feature to run the opener and the safety sensors even in case of a power outage.

Don’t also neglect maintenance for your garage door. It is best to plan for annual garage door maintenance. During servicing, have a professional inspect the garage door system and lubricate the moving parts. The technician will also thoroughly examine the nuts, bolts, and screws and tighten them to keep the garage door running smoothly. Routine maintenance will also help minimize the chances of automatic garage door opener failure.

If you need professional assistance with your garage door, you can always reach out to the Garage Door Doctor. We specialize in garage door installations, repairs, maintenance, and replacements. We also provide garage door spring repair, replacement, and commercial garage door services across Indianapolis, IN, and the nearby regions. Call us today to schedule an appointment.

The Safety Importance of Hiring an Established Garage Door Company

Written by jsanford on April 6, 2021. Posted in Garage Doors Indianapolis. No Comments on The Safety Importance of Hiring an Established Garage Door Company

Every home with a garage requires a good door to keep everyone safe and protected. Without a properly functioning garage door, the safety risks are enormous.

Installing a garage door requires ample knowledge, so it’s better to hire an expert company for the job. You can rest easy knowing your home is secure at all times. Below are reasons why it’s essential to hire an established garage door company for your safety.

1. Keep the Family Safe

Imagine trying to sleep at night when you’re not sure if the garage door is secure. Chances are, you won’t get a wink of sleep. It’s tempting to install or repair the garage door on your own to save on costs. But, the risk of not doing a good job is high. Therefore, the best action to take is to hire a professional firm for the job.

An established company with years of experience understands how to install and repair garage doors keeping you safe. Also, they can advise you on other safety measures to take that guard against intruders.

2. Accountability

When an established company comes in to install or repair the garage door, they remain accountable to you. If for any reason, the door is faulty or ends up affecting your safety, you know who to turn to.

When you opt to do it yourself, you carry the burden when problems occur in the future. If there’s ever an issue with intruders or a faulty door causing injuries, you have to account for these shortcomings yourself. That’s a tremendous burden to carry around, so it’s better to call in the experts.

3. Cut Costs

DIY repairs seem like a good idea, but the truth is they can be pretty expensive in the long run. Imagine you purchase all the tools to repair the garage door on your own. You start the project but end up making the issues worse or never have enough time to finish.

At that point, you have to call in an established garage door company to start over. If you made the problem worse, repair costs are high, forcing you to dig deeper into your pockets. Consequently, you end up with the cost of hiring an expert plus the price of all the items you bought at the beginning.

However, if you hire an expert company the minute you notice issues with the garage door, you can keep the costs low. There might even be some discounts and deals available that can bring down the cost of repairs. Also, you’re assured the parts are of top quality and won’t easily breakdown after only a short while.

4. Use Minimal Time

There are certain parts of the home that are at high risk and need immediate repair. For instance, if you have an issue with the garage door, you need it tackled as soon as possible. The dangers of a faulty garage door are great, especially at night or when you’re not at home.

It would be best if you had an immediate solution to the problem, and hiring an expert garage door company is the way to go. Due to the urgency of the situation, experts will take the least time possible to repair the doors. That means you won’t have to spend nights listening for intruders because the doors are still broken.

5. Improve Garage Door Lifespan

Garage doors aren’t cheap, but they can last up to 30 years with proper maintenance. However, the longevity depends on the state of the door and the surrounding environment. Factors that affect the door’s lifespan include how you use them, maintenance frequency, door quality, and the local weather/climate.

Keeping all these in mind, it’s in your best interest to have an expert check your garage door now and then. You may consider having annual maintenance checks if the doors aren’t faulty during this period. The longer your garage door lasts, the longer you can keep your family safe without paying exorbitant costs.

6. Good Workmanship

Research reveals how advantageous electric garage doors can be for you and your family’s safety. Most electric gates have sensors to detect any unwanted guests. You get an alert immediately even if you’re not at home and can get images from cameras at any time.

But, installing such an intricate system to keep your home safe requires expertise, which is why you must hire an established company with references for similar jobs in other homes. The technicians will come in, install the garage door, and train the whole family on how to operate them.

With an electric door, you won’t have to worry about the kids handling heavy garage doors, which pose a significant risk. All they do is use a remote control or app to close or open them. Also, anyone with arthritis or other health conditions won’t have trouble operating the door.

7. Quality Emergency Repairs

Apart from making fast repairs, you can always call a professional company when you have an emergency. For instance, if the door won’t open in the morning and you have to go to work.

Most expert companies always have technicians on standby for their customers in case of an emergency. And, you can rest easy knowing you are getting quality repairs for your doors, even if it’s on short notice.

8. Warranty

The best decision for your home is to call in an expert company to install garage doors during construction or remodeling. Once you do, you can inquire about warranties for the garage door.

Straight from the shoulder, the warranty gives you a sense of security since you know the doors are secure. If there’s ever an issue, you can reach out to the company for answers. However, any doors you install and repair on your own will have no warranty.

9. Work With References

Do you like the way your neighbor’s garage door operates and want something similar? You could have them refer you to their garage door company.

Chances are they did thorough research to find the best repair company around, and now their home is safe. You can do the same for your home to find a good company in your area. References give you more insight into the best company to work with and ones that do a good job.

Wrapping Up

It’s pretty tempting to install or repair garage doors on your own. The truth, though, that this can jeopardize your safety. Therefore, the best thing to do is hire an established garage door company with several years of industrial experience to do the job.

Our trained professionals at Garage Door Doctor are at your service if you would like to install or repair a broken garage door. We also offer other services, including commercial garage doors and residential garage door spring repairs and replacements.

If you have an issue with your garage doors or would like to install a new one in your Indianapolis, IN home, contact us today.

How to Program Garage Door Opener

Written by jsanford on March 8, 2021. Posted in Garage Door Openers. No Comments on How to Program Garage Door Opener

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Manually opening a garage door can be inconvenient and dangerous. That’s why automatic garage door openers are such great tools to have. No automatic garage door opener would be complete, though, without a garage door opener remote. Whether it’s mounted in your vehicle or in your Indianapolis home, a garage door opener remote allows you to gain access to your garage with just the touch of a button. Before you can use your garage door opener remote, though, it needs to be programmed. To help simplify this process, here is a basic guide from Garage Door Doctor on everything you’ll need to know to ensure that your garage door opener remote works correctly. Call a specialist if you need help with garage door opener service in Indianapolis.

Different Types of Garage Door Openers

There are two main types of garage door opener remotes from Garage Door Doctor: wired and wireless. Wired opener remotes are often installed in the garage itself or next to a service door that leads from the house to the garage. These types of remotes make it easy to open and close your garage door when you’re not in your vehicle.

In many cases, these types of remotes are illuminated with a low-power nightlight so that you can find the remote when it’s dark. Wireless remotes, on the other hand, are almost exclusively for use in a vehicle. In most cases, a garage door opener kit will come with one or more wireless remotes that you can move from vehicle to vehicle. In addition, most newer vehicles come with a wireless transmitter built in so that you won’t need a separate remote.

How Does a Garage Door Opener Work?

Wireless garage door remotes utilize a radio transmitter built into the remote that is paired with a receiver that’s built into the garage door opening mechanism. When you push a button on the remote, the transmitter sends a signal that the receiver can decode. When the receiver detects that the correct signal has been sent, it activates the motor to begin opening or closing your garage door.

A wired garage door opener remote sends an electrical signal to the garage door opener when you push the corresponding button. A wireless remote is powered using long-lasting lithium batteries while a wired opener receives its power from the electrical supply that powers the opener motor.

How to Program Your Garage Door Openers

To prevent your garage door from opening with remotes other than yours, you must program the receiver on your door’s opening mechanism to recognize your wireless remotes. You’ll need to access the opening mechanism, which means you’ll need a ladder or step stool. On the opening mechanism, you’ll find a button called the “learn button.” This button is located in different places on different openers.

Once you find the button, press it once, then press the “open” button on one of your wireless remotes. The light on the opening mechanism will flash to let you know the system has been programmed. Then, you’ll want to test your remote to make sure that it works. You’ll need to repeat this procedure for each of your wireless remotes.

Proper Garage Door Opener Maintenance

Since you use your garage door opener remotes fairly often, they are likely to begin to form a buildup of body oils that can affect the performance of the remote. That’s why it’s good to wipe down all of your remotes with an alcohol-based cleaner that will both clean and sanitize the remote without damaging it.

For wireless remotes, you’ll also need to make sure to replace the battery. Under normal usage, you can expect to replace the battery approximately every two years. Every year or so, it’s a good idea to open the remote to check and make sure that there’s no corrosion in the battery compartment. Finally, make sure to keep all of your opener remotes out of direct sunlight to prevent damage to the remotes from high temperatures.

Garage Door Opener Safety Considerations

A moving garage door can cause serious injuries if it’s misused. That’s why Garage Door Doctor urges you to put safety first whenever you’re using your garage door opener remote. Before closing your garage door, make sure that the path of the garage door is free from any obstructions. You’ll also need to consistently maintain the electronic eye that will stop the garage door if it senses anything in its path.

When pulling into your garage, make sure to turn off your vehicle before closing your garage door. If you don’t, carbon monoxide contained in the tailpipe emissions of your vehicle could cause serious injury or death after just a few minutes of exposure.

What Happens if Your Garage Door Opener Is Stolen?

One of the few drawbacks of an automatic garage door opener is that the thieves have easy access to your garage if your vehicle is stolen. Therefore, if your remote or vehicle is stolen, it’s important to de-program the receiver as quickly as possible. Most modern receivers have a single button that will cause the system to forget all programmed remotes. For extra protection, you may want to turn off the power to your automatic opener until you can get new remotes.

Common Garage Door Opener Problems and How to Fix Them

For all the convenience that a garage door opener provides, it can be quite frustrating when this staple of modern life quits working. Fortunately, most problems with a garage door opener remote are fairly easy to fix. If your remote won’t work, the first thing to check is the battery. Even a newer battery can become depleted sooner than expected. If a fresh battery doesn’t help, make sure that the receiver isn’t dirty to the extent that it can’t pick up the radio signal. Also, make sure that the opener isn’t in the “locked” position on the indoor keypad. If none of these solutions fix the problem, be sure to call Garage Door Doctor for further assistance.

What Happens If the Power Is Out?

Since automatic openers use electricity, it presents a problem if the electrical supply to your home is interrupted. Fortunately, most openers from Garage Door Doctor have a battery backup that will allow you to open and close your garage door at least once. You can also use the manual lift mechanism that allows you to open and close the door without the need for an electric motor. If you experience frequent power outages in your area, you may want to invest in a backup generator for your home so that you can power your opener for longer periods without interruption.

Taking Care of All of Your Garage Door Needs

At Garage Door Doctor, we’ve been taking care of garage door needs in Indianapolis for over a decade. We can take care of garage door installation, repair, and maintenance. Plus, we can install commercial garage doors, extra control interfaces, and various types of loading dock equipment. We even offer emergency service if you should ever find yourself stuck in your garage with no way to open the door. To learn more about garage door remotes, contact us at Garage Door Doctor today.

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