What are Garage Door Torsion Springs?
Garage door torsion springs are responsible for helping to lift the weight of the garage door. They are located above the garage door and work by twisting and coiling up when the door is opened. When the door closes, the springs unwind and release their stored energy to lower the door. These springs are under tremendous tension, making it crucial to handle them with caution when making adjustments.
Why Adjust Garage Door Torsion Springs?
Over time, garage door torsion springs may lose tension and stop functioning as intended. This can cause the garage door to stop working or even damage the door opener or other parts of the garage door system. Adjusting these springs ensures that the door operates smoothly and efficiently, prolonging its lifespan and reducing the risk of costly repairs.
Tools Needed to Adjust Garage Door Torsion Springs
Before attempting to adjust garage door torsion springs, there are a few tools that you will need including:
- A pair of vise grips
- A clamp
- Adjustable wrenches
- A winding bar
- Steel rods
- Safety goggles and gloves
Having the right tools will make adjusting garage door torsion springs much easier and safer.
How to Identify the Torsion Springs on Your Garage Door
To adjust garage door torsion springs, you need to first identify which type of springs you have. There are two types of torsion springs: standard and high-cycle. Standard springs are used on residential garage doors and have a standard lifespan of 10,000 cycles. High-cycle springs are designed for commercial or heavy-duty use, lasting up to 100,000 cycles. To identify which type of springs are on your garage door, check the tags on the springs for markings indicating the weight rating and cycle count.
Measuring the Torsion Springs
Before adjusting the torsion springs, you need to measure them to determine their size and weight rating. This will help ensure that you use the correct winding bars and adjust the springs appropriately. To measure springs, use a tape measure to find the length of the spring and measure the diameter of the wire. This information will help you select the correct size and length of winding bars.
How to Safely Adjust Garage Door Torsion Springs
Adjusting garage door torsion springs is a dangerous task that should only be attempted by experienced individuals. Here are some guidelines to follow to keep yourself safe while adjusting these springs:
- Always wear safety goggles and gloves
- Disconnect the garage door opener before attempting to adjust the springs
- Use vise grips to lock the door in place and prevent it from moving
- Use a clamp to secure the shaft to prevent it from spinning
- Avoid standing directly in front of the garage door while making adjustments
Remember, if you're not comfortable with making adjustments to torsion springs, it's best to call a garage door professional.
How to Determine How Many Turns to Apply to Adjust the Springs
To determine how many turns to apply to the springs, you need to know the door weight and the size of the springs. The larger the spring, the less turns it will need to lift the same amount of weight. A rule of thumb is that for every foot of door height, one full turn of the spring is needed. Consult with a professional or reference a garage door manufacturer's guidelines to determine the appropriate number of turns required.
How to Adjust Left and Right Torsion Springs
To adjust the left and right torsion springs, first, disconnect the garage door opener and lock the door in place using vise grips. Then, use a winding bar to unwind the springs the appropriate number of turns. After unwinding the springs, use an adjustable wrench to adjust the cable drum settings to keep the cable in the proper position.
How to Test the Garage Door After Making Adjustments
After making adjustments to garage door torsion springs, it's important to test the garage door to make sure that it operates correctly. To do this, close the garage door and watch to ensure that it lowers at a steady pace without any jerking or stopping. Then, test the door's balance. Manually lift the door halfway and release it, making sure it stays in place and does not continue to rise or fall on its own.
When to Call a Professional
Adjusting garage door torsion springs can be a dangerous task that is best left to the professionals. If you do not feel comfortable making adjustments to the springs, it's recommended that you call a professional garage door technician. A professional will have the tools and knowledge needed to safely adjust the springs and keep your garage door operating smoothly.
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