When a garage door opener stops operating properly out of the blue, there could be any number of reasons. However, some are fairly simple and common, while others may require the garage door itself to be repaired. Here are some frequently encountered reasons that openers fail to function correctly.

Remote Transmitter Batteries Are Dead

The most simple-to-resolve issue is that the key fob or hand-held garage door opener's batteries have given out. This prevents the transmitter from sending signals to the door that allows it to open or close. You can confirm this in one of two ways: try another remote opener or attempt to use the transmitter wall switch or keypad. If it's just the battery, the alternatives will work. Changing the batteries in the fob may require removing a small plate on the back or opening a slide-off cover.

The Remote Control or Wall Switch Opens the Garage Door

If the door won't function using the remote control, wall transmitter, or a keypad code, it's likely the power source is disrupted in some way.  First, check to see if the motor is unplugged or only partially plugged into the outlet. It could also be possible that the fuse, circuit breaker, or ground fault circuit interrupter has burned out or tripped. If garage lights or other electrical circuits in the space aren't operating, it may be necessary to replace a burned-out fuse or reset the breaker. Should other circuits work, the keypad or opening device may need to be reset or reprogrammed. Often the manual will have codes to handle this task, but some models may need to be reprogrammed by a garage door installation and repair company.

The Garage Door Springs Are Broken

If the door refuses to go up or down using the wall panel installation or the remote control, try opening the garage manually. If this fails also, yet power is getting to the motor, the torsion springs to the door may have broken. You might have heard a loud pop during the latest opening or closing, which is a telltale sign that this is the issue. Don't try again to use the remote or wall devices to open the door. This is a serious issue and will require the assistance of a garage door repair professional.

Still Having Garage Door Opener Problems?

The garage is a safe haven for vehicles, tools, and storing household goods not in use, making it a potential target for theft. Don't go another day without a functional garage door, call an experienced professional to learn more about garage door openers today.