Garage Door
Margarita Aldrich | September 14, 2023

Defining And Fixing Garage Door Cables Issues

It’s so nice when everything in the house works, especially when it comes to garage doors. Imagine driving home tired from work or after a long trip, and the last thing you think about is that the door to your own garage might not open. By knowing the roots of typical garage wiring problems, you can prevent costly repairs and keep your garage door in good working order. In this detailed guide, we’ll show you how to fix garage door wires. So gather your tools and get to work!

At Abell Garage Doors, we understand the value of reliable information and professional support. Should you require expert advice or maintenance tips, you can always rely on us to have your back.

Malfunctions In The Motor

Malfunctions In The Motor

When the drive motor makes a sound but doesn’t turn, it can be assumed that the capacitor is faulty or the wire at the capacitor contact is broken, which is more common than a breakage.

Transformers burn more often, as voltage drops in the mains are not uncommon. Systems with 24V motors suffer from this especially often. To check the voltage, the windings are tapped, and if the result is negative – change the transformer for a similar one.

If the lights on the board are glowing, the cause of the malfunction may be a burnt-out receiver. You will have to replace the receiver or install an external one. There are cases when you can limit yourself to reprogramming.

Moreover, check all connection pins, jumpers, board adjustments, and other settings. Often the cause of failure is a bad contact in the socket, or a wire falling out of the socket altogether.

Note that there are actuators where limit switches are installed that block the movement of the mechanism when the release cover is not keyed closed. The design should be thoroughly inspected.

Problems In Gate Movement

Problems In Gate Movement

A common problem is the movement of the gate only in one direction, most often the panel only opens. Sometimes, the problem is hidden in inoperative photocells. They may be covered with frost, snow, dirt, malfunction, or their orientation towards each other may be off.

Checking the accuracy of the setting is easy:

  • The photocells will click quietly when there is an obstacle between them.
  • If no clicks are heard, check to see if one of the reasons listed above is present.
  • If you wish to disable the photocells altogether, a jumper can be installed on the control unit to block their operation.

Another reason for the failure of regular operation may be a blown motor control relay or incorrect settings of additional sensors.

Mechanical Faults Of The Gate

Sliding gates can have problems with the limit switches due to their failure to operate, leading to jamming of the blade. This happens when the mechanical limit switch freezes or falls off, or due to incorrectly adjusted switches. The height, distance, or angle of attack may be set incorrectly.

The way out of the situation is simple:

  • Unscrew the toothed rack
  • Unlock the drive
  • Move the sash to the required position.

Mechanical failures are quite rare. This occurs in drives with plastic gears. In this case, the worn part will have to be replaced, preferably with a metal one.

Trouble With Remote Controls

Trouble With Remote Controls

Garage door remotes work with a unique radio signal, usually between 350 and 390 MHz. This signal has a unique code, so only your remote opens your door. Sometimes, things like a broken transmitter or a glitchy circuit board can cause problems. Before ringing up to an expert, check your remote for the usual defects. There are six common reasons it might not work, and you can try some fixes yourself.

1. Drained Batteries – If the garage door works with the wall-mounted control, but not the remote, batteries might be the issue.

Solution: Replace the batteries, typically every two years.

2. Physical Damage – Damage from drops or weather can hinder function.

Solution: If damaged, replace the remote and protect the new one.

3. Disrupted Signal – The signal between the remote and the door might be obstructed.

Solution: Stay within 20 feet of the garage and clear obstructions. Ensure the antenna points towards the door and is debris-free. If it’s broken, seek professional repair.

4. Engaged Lock Button – The lock button on the control panel might be on, making the remote appear faulty.

Solution: Press the lock button to disengage and test the door.

5. Remote Needs Reset – The remote can desynchronize from the opener over time.

Solution: Reprogram using the opener’s Learn button and then the remote’s button.

6. Door Wiring Malfunction – The opener circuit board may be malfunctioning.

Solution: Seek professional inspection and potential rewiring. Also, if you lost your pocket remote control, purchase a new one and replicate the initial setup or copy the program from another functioning remote.

Conclusion

The bottom line is that actuators can be fixed, though getting spare parts might be tough. You can order most parts or replace broken electronics. But sometimes, repairing can cost more than getting a new one.

Knowing the hitches with garage doors, like motor issues or remote problems, helps you address issues proactively. While many fixes are easy, some need an expert’s touch. However, you can always try to start repairing yourself.

So, don your DIY hat, roll up your sleeves, and embark on this home repair journey.

Margarita Aldrich

Margarita Aldrich is a distinguished author of our site, specializing in U.S. job sector content. She masterfully navigates diverse employment landscapes, delivering insightful articles that illuminate trends and opportunities. Margarita's work embodies a perfect blend of comprehensive research, astute analysis, and engaging storytelling, making her a valuable resource for those navigating the complexities of the American job market.