Which way to turn garage door spring?

Welcome to the MM Garage Door Repair Utah blog! As your trusted local garage door experts, we often get asked about the inner workings of garage doors. One question that pops up frequently, and rightfully so, is about garage door springs: “Which way to turn garage door spring?” It’s a crucial question because dealing with garage door springs can be dangerous if not handled correctly. This blog post will provide a comprehensive guide, but remember, safety is paramount. If you’re uncomfortable with any of these steps, please don’t hesitate to call us at 801-418-9217 or visit mmgaragedoorrepair.com for professional assistance.

Understanding Garage Door Springs

Before we dive into the specifics of which way to turn a garage door spring, let’s briefly understand their function. Garage door springs are responsible for counterbalancing the weight of your garage door, making it easier to open and close. There are two main types: torsion springs and extension springs. Torsion springs are located above the garage door opening, while extension springs run along the horizontal tracks on either side of the door. This guide primarily focuses on torsion springs, as they are more commonly adjusted.

Safety First Garage Door Spring Adjustments

Working with garage door springs can be extremely dangerous. They are under immense tension, and improper handling can lead to serious injury or even death. Never attempt to adjust or repair garage door springs without the proper tools and knowledge. If you are unsure about any step, call a professional. Always wear safety glasses and gloves. Disconnect the garage door opener before starting any work.

Identifying Your Torsion Spring System

Before you even think about turning a spring, you need to identify your torsion spring system. Look above your garage door. You’ll likely see one or two springs mounted on a torsion tube. Observe the direction of the spring coils. This is crucial for determining which way to wind or unwind the spring.

Which Way to Turn Garage Door Spring The Winding Process

Now, let’s get to the core of the question: which way to turn the garage door spring? The direction you turn the spring depends on whether you are winding or unwinding it, and the side of the door it is on. Here’s a breakdown:

Winding the Spring Increase Tension

Winding a torsion spring increases its tension, providing more lifting power to the garage door. This is typically done when the door is difficult to open or feels heavy.

Tools Needed:

• Winding bars (usually 18-24 inches long)
• Safety glasses
• Gloves
• Ladder

Steps to Wind a Torsion Spring:

1. Secure the Door: Ensure the garage door is fully closed and clamped in place to prevent it from moving unexpectedly.
2. Insert Winding Bar: Insert one winding bar into a winding cone hole and use it to hold the spring in place.
3. Loosen Set Screws: Loosen the set screws on the winding cone using a wrench. Be careful not to strip the screws.
4. Wind the Spring: Insert the second winding bar into the next available hole. Push the first winding bar upwards, releasing some tension, and then secure it in the next hole. Repeat this process to add tension to the spring. The number of turns needed depends on the door’s height and weight. A general rule of thumb is one turn per foot of door height, plus an additional quarter turn.
5. Tighten Set Screws: Once you’ve added the desired number of turns, tighten the set screws securely.
6. Remove Winding Bars: Carefully remove the winding bars, one at a time.
7. Test the Door: Disconnect the clamp and manually lift the garage door. It should move smoothly and stay in place halfway up. If not, repeat the winding process, adding or removing tension as needed.

Unwinding the Spring Decrease Tension

Unwinding a torsion spring decreases its tension, reducing the lifting power. This is typically done when the door slams shut or feels too light.

The process for unwinding is essentially the reverse of winding. The key difference is the direction you move the winding bars.

Steps to Unwind a Torsion Spring:

1. Secure the Door: Ensure the garage door is fully closed and clamped in place.
2. Insert Winding Bar: Insert one winding bar into a winding cone hole.
3. Loosen Set Screws: Loosen the set screws on the winding cone.
4. Unwind the Spring: Insert the second winding bar into the next available hole. Push the first winding bar downwards, releasing some tension, and then secure it in the next hole. Repeat this process to reduce tension.
5. Tighten Set Screws: Once you’ve removed the desired number of turns, tighten the set screws securely.
6. Remove Winding Bars: Carefully remove the winding bars, one at a time.
7. Test the Door: Disconnect the clamp and manually lift the garage door.

Important Considerations

Direction Matters: The direction you turn the spring is crucial. Incorrectly winding or unwinding can damage the spring or cause it to break, leading to injury.

Spring Balance: If you have two torsion springs, adjust them equally to maintain balance. An unbalanced door can put excessive strain on the opener and other components.

Lubrication: After adjusting the springs, lubricate them with a garage door lubricant to ensure smooth operation and prevent rust.

Final Solution

The direction to turn a garage door spring depends on whether you are winding (increasing tension) or unwinding (decreasing tension). Remember to always prioritize safety and use the correct tools. If you’re unsure about any step, it’s always best to call a professional. Improper adjustment can lead to serious injury or damage to your garage door system.

FAQs About Garage Door Springs

Q: How many turns should I put on my garage door spring?

A: A general rule of thumb is one turn per foot of door height, plus an additional quarter turn. However, this can vary depending on the door’s weight and spring type. It’s best to start with a conservative estimate and adjust as needed.

Q: Can I replace a garage door spring myself?

A: While it’s possible to replace a garage door spring yourself, it’s highly recommended to hire a professional. The process is dangerous and requires specialized tools and knowledge.

Q: How often should I lubricate my garage door springs?

A: Lubricate your garage door springs every 3-6 months, or as needed, to ensure smooth operation and prevent rust.

Q: What are the signs that my garage door spring needs adjustment?

A: Signs include a door that is difficult to open or close, a door that slams shut, or a door that feels too heavy or light.

Safety Note

Garage door springs are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury or death if mishandled. If you are not comfortable working with garage door springs, please contact a qualified professional.

We hope this guide has been helpful in understanding how to adjust your garage door springs. Remember, safety is always the top priority. If you’re in the Utah area and need assistance with your garage door springs or any other garage door issue, don’t hesitate to contact MM Garage Door Repair Utah. We’re here to help!

Ready to say goodbye to garage door headaches? Give MM Garage Door Repair Utah a call today at 801-418-9217 for expert service and peace of mind. Or, visit our website at mmgaragedoorrepair.com to schedule an appointment online. Let us take the tension out of your garage door springs so you don’t have to!