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Garage Door Safety

By taking the time to test your garage door’s safety features, you can prevent accidents and injuries, and enjoy peace of mind knowing that your family is safe.

May is Garage Door Safety Month: Learn How to Keep Your Door Safe with These Simple Tips

Garage doors are an essential part of many homes, but they can also pose serious safety risks if not properly maintained. According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, there were an estimated 30,000 garage door-related injuries in 2020 alone. Fortunately, many of these injuries can be prevented by following some simple safety guidelines.

Here are some tips on how to test the safety of your garage door:

  1. Perform a visual inspection: Examine the garage door’s internal and external parts for wear and tear. When in doubt, consult with a garage door professional if you think a component should be replaced.
  2. Check the auto-reverse feature: All modern garage doors come equipped with an auto-reverse feature, which causes the door to automatically reverse direction if it encounters an obstruction while closing. To test this feature, place a roll of paper towels or a small block of wood in the door’s path, and then attempt to close the door. If the door reverses direction upon encountering the object, the auto-reverse feature is working properly.
  3. Test the photoelectric sensors: The photoelectric sensors located near the bottom of the garage door tracks detect any object or person that may be in the door’s path. To test these sensors, start closing the garage door and then wave an object in front of the sensors. If the door stops and reverses direction, the sensors are working properly.
  4. Check the door’s balance: An unbalanced garage door can be a safety hazard, as it can cause the door to suddenly fall or close too quickly. To check the door’s balance, disconnect the opener and manually lift the door about halfway. If the door stays in place, it is properly balanced. If it falls or rises on its own, it needs to be adjusted by a professional.
  5. Inspect the hardware: Make sure all the nuts, bolts, and other hardware holding the garage door tracks and opener are tight and secure. Loose hardware can cause the door to fall or operate improperly.
  6. Trust your instinct: If you suspect that there is an issue with your garage door’s safety features, but you’re not sure what it is, contact a professional garage door technician to inspect and repair it.

By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your garage door is safe for you and your family to use.

Need some extra help? Give us a call.

Get expert advice when repairs or concerns are beyond your skill level, or you just want a second opinion. Our team is ready to help and available 24/7. Contact us at (707) 839-3222 or fill-out an online request.

Remember, garage door safety should be a top priority for all homeowners. By taking the time to test your garage door’s safety features, you can prevent accidents and injuries, and enjoy peace of mind knowing that your family is safe.