How to tell if garage door spring is broken?

Welcome to the MM Garage Door Repair Utah blog! As your trusted local garage door experts, we’re dedicated to providing you with valuable information to keep your garage door operating safely and efficiently. One of the most common issues we encounter is broken garage door springs. A broken spring can render your garage door unusable and potentially dangerous. In this post, we’ll guide you through the telltale signs of a broken garage door spring, helping you identify the problem and take the necessary steps to resolve it.

How to Tell if Garage Door Spring is Broken

Identifying a broken garage door spring is crucial for your safety and the proper functioning of your garage door. Here are some key indicators to look for:

The Obvious Break

The most straightforward sign is a visible break in the spring itself. Garage door springs are under immense tension, and when they fail, they often snap into two or more pieces. Carefully examine the springs located above your garage door (torsion springs) or along the sides (extension springs). Look for a gap or separation in the coils.

Loud Bang or Noise

A broken garage door spring often announces itself with a loud bang, similar to a gunshot or a metal object snapping. This noise is the sound of the spring releasing its stored energy. If you hear such a noise coming from your garage, investigate immediately.

Garage Door Won’t Open or Opens Partially

If your garage door struggles to open, opens only a few inches, or refuses to open at all, a broken spring is a likely culprit. The springs are responsible for counterbalancing the weight of the door, and without them, the opener motor has to work much harder, or may not be able to lift the door at all.

Garage Door Closes Too Quickly

Conversely, if your garage door slams shut with excessive force, it could also indicate a broken spring. The springs control the descent of the door, and without their assistance, the door will fall rapidly, posing a safety hazard.

Garage Door is Crooked or Uneven

A broken spring can cause the garage door to appear crooked or uneven when it’s open or closed. This is because one side of the door is no longer supported by a functioning spring, leading to an imbalance.

Visible Gap in the Spring

Even if the spring hasn’t completely snapped, you might notice a significant gap between the coils. This indicates that the spring is weakened and likely to break completely soon.

Difficulty Lifting the Door Manually

If you disconnect the garage door opener and try to lift the door manually, it should feel relatively easy to lift. If it feels extremely heavy or difficult to lift, a broken spring is likely the cause.

Types of Garage Door Springs

Understanding the type of springs your garage door uses can help you better diagnose the problem:

Torsion Springs

These springs are located above the garage door opening, wound around a metal shaft. They are typically used in newer garage door systems and are known for their durability and smooth operation.

Extension Springs

These springs are located along the sides of the garage door, running parallel to the tracks. They extend and contract as the door opens and closes. Extension springs are often found in older garage door systems.

Safety First Important Note

WARNING: Garage door springs are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury or even death if mishandled. DO NOT attempt to repair or replace broken garage door springs yourself unless you have the proper tools, training, and experience. It is always best to call a qualified garage door technician.

Final Solution Call the Professionals

If you suspect that you have a broken garage door spring, the safest and most effective solution is to contact a professional garage door repair service like MM Garage Door Repair Utah. Our experienced technicians have the expertise and equipment to safely and efficiently replace your broken springs, ensuring the proper operation and safety of your garage door.

FAQs About Garage Door Springs

How long do garage door springs last?

The lifespan of garage door springs varies depending on usage, maintenance, and the quality of the springs. On average, they last between 5 and 10 years, or around 10,000 cycles (one cycle is one opening and closing of the door).

Can I replace just one broken spring?

While it might seem cost-effective to replace only the broken spring, it’s highly recommended to replace both springs at the same time. This is because the springs work together, and the remaining spring is likely to fail soon after the first one breaks. Replacing both ensures balanced operation and prevents future problems.

How much does it cost to replace garage door springs?

The cost of garage door spring replacement varies depending on the type of springs, the complexity of the job, and the labor rates in your area. Contact MM Garage Door Repair Utah for a free estimate.

Can I prevent garage door springs from breaking?

Regular maintenance can help extend the life of your garage door springs. Lubricate the springs with a silicone-based lubricant every few months, and have your garage door professionally inspected and serviced annually.

In conclusion, identifying a broken garage door spring is essential for your safety and the proper functioning of your garage door. By recognizing the signs we’ve discussed, you can take prompt action to address the problem. Remember, attempting to repair or replace garage door springs yourself can be dangerous. Trust the experts at MM Garage Door Repair Utah to handle your garage door spring needs safely and efficiently.

Don’t let a broken garage door spring disrupt your day! Contact MM Garage Door Repair Utah today for fast, reliable service. Give us a call at 801-418-9217 or visit our website at mmgaragedoorrepair.com to schedule an appointment. Let us spring into action and get your garage door working like new again!