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Discovering a broken spring on your garage door can be quite inconvenient, but it is not the end of the world. While it’s true that a broken spring will prevent your garage door opener from lifting the door, there are ways you can open it manually. However, it’s essential to mention that dealing with garage door springs can be dangerous due to the tension they hold, so please proceed with caution or contact a professional to handle it.
Recognizing a Broken Spring
Before we dive into methods of opening your garage door, it’s crucial to verify that it is indeed a broken spring causing the issue. Garage doors have two types of springs: torsion and extension. Torsion springs are typically mounted horizontally above the door, while extension springs run alongside the tracks. If any of these is broken, your door will have trouble opening.
Signs of a broken spring include:
- The door only opens a few inches.
- You hear a loud noise (like a gunshot) from the garage.
- You see a gap in what was once a single spring.
Methods to Open a Garage Door with a Broken Spring
Here’s a detailed table outlining the various methods you can use to manually open a garage door with a broken spring.
| Method | Steps |
|---|---|
| Using a pry bar | 1. Use a pry bar under the door to lift it manually. 2. Have someone else hold the door open while you move your car out. |
| Engage Emergency Release | 1. Look for the red cord hanging from the guide track – that’s the emergency release handle. 2. Pull down on this cord to disconnect the garage door opener. 3. You should now be able to manually lift the door. |
| Professional Assistance | If the door is too heavy or the spring’s tension is too high, call a professional service to assist you. |
Engage the Emergency Release
Most garage doors have an emergency release handle, often a red cord hanging from the guide track. Here’s how to use it:
- Close the garage door completely.
- Pull the emergency release cord down. This will disconnect the door from the opener.
- Lift the door manually. If it’s too heavy, get help or use a pry bar.
- Once open, prop the door up using 2x4s or have someone hold it.
Get Professional Assistance
If you find the door too heavy or the spring’s tension too high, don’t risk it. Instead, call a professional service. At Sooner Garage Doors, we offer 24-hour garage door repair in Oklahoma City, and we are well-equipped to deal with all kinds of garage door issues.
Why Choose Our Professionals
Choose Sooner Garage Doors for your repair and maintenance needs. We pride ourselves on prompt, reliable service, experienced professionals, and affordable prices. We’re here 24/7 to ensure your garage door runs smoothly, minimizing any disruption to your day. Trust us to deliver high-quality, efficient solutions for all your garage door problems.
FAQ
What are the dangers of a broken garage door spring?
A broken garage door spring can be hazardous. Springs are under high tension, and when they break, they can cause injuries or property damage. Additionally, a door with a broken spring can suddenly drop, potentially leading to accidents.
How often should garage door springs be replaced?
On average, garage door springs should be replaced every 7-9 years. This depends on usage, with the average spring lasting around 10,000 cycles. Regular maintenance can prolong their lifespan.
Can I replace the garage door spring myself?
Garage door springs are under high tension and can be very dangerous if not handled properly. Unless you have the right tools and experience, it’s recommended to hire a professional for this task.
How can I prevent my garage door springs from breaking?
Routine maintenance, such as lubricating the springs and checking for wear and tear, can help prolong their lifespan. Consider having a garage door tune-up regularly performed by a professional.
Conclusion
A broken garage door spring is inconvenient, but not insurmountable. There are ways to manually open your garage door, but keep in mind the dangers that come with a broken spring. If you’re not comfortable opening the door yourself, don’t hesitate to call a professional service. At Sooner Garage Doors, we offer a variety of garage door services, including emergency repairs and spring replacements. Don’t let a broken spring disrupt your day, contact us today and get your garage door back in operation in no time.
