Troubleshooting Your Garage Door Opener: Common Issues and How to Fix Them

A malfunctioning garage door opener can disrupt your day, especially when you’re running late or coming home in bad weather. Whether your garage door won’t open, your remote stopped working, or you’re hearing strange noises during operation, there’s usually a quick fix. Here’s a practical guide to garage door opener troubleshooting that can help you identify and resolve common problems.

Garage Door Won’t Open or Close

One of the most frustrating problems homeowners face is a garage door that won’t budge. Before calling for service, try these steps:

• Check the Power Source – Make sure the opener is plugged in and that the outlet has power. A tripped circuit breaker could be the culprit.
• Test the Wall Switch and Remote – If the wall switch works but the remote doesn’t, you may just need to replace the remote’s battery.
• Reprogram the Remote – Sometimes, a garage door remote not working is simply due to a loss of sync. Reprogram the remote following your opener’s manual.

If none of these steps solve the problem, there could be a deeper electrical or mechanical issue that needs professional attention.

Garage Door Safety Sensor Issues

Garage doors are equipped with safety sensors to prevent accidents. If your door begins to close but immediately reverses, the sensors might be misaligned or dirty.

• Clean the Lenses – Dust or spider webs can block the infrared signal. Gently wipe the sensor lenses with a clean, dry cloth.
• Check Alignment – The sensors should face each other directly. If they’re slightly off, the opener won’t operate properly. Adjust them until the indicator lights are solid.
• Inspect for Damage – If the problem persists, you may need garage door sensor repair or replacement.

Keeping your sensors clean, aligned, and functional is crucial for safe garage door operation.

Garage Door Remote Not Working

If your remote isn’t responding, here’s how to troubleshoot:

• Replace the Battery – Most garage door remote issues stem from a dead battery.
• Check the Range – If you’re too far from the opener, the signal may not reach. Try using the remote from a closer distance.
• Look for Interference – Devices like LED lights, routers, or other electronics can interfere with the remote’s signal. Move them if necessary.

Addressing these common remote problems can usually get your system working again without the need for major repairs.

Noisy Garage Door Opener

If your garage door opener is making grinding, rattling, or squeaking noises, it may be a sign of wear or poor maintenance.

• Lubricate Moving Parts – Apply a garage door lubricant to the rollers, hinges, and tracks. Avoid using grease, which can attract dirt.
• Inspect the Chain or Belt Drive – If the chain is loose or the belt is worn, tighten or replace as needed.
• Check for Worn Parts – Rollers, springs, or bearings might need replacing if the noise continues. A professional inspection may be necessary if the issue isn’t obvious.

Staying ahead of noisy garage door opener issues can help extend the life of your equipment and prevent more expensive repairs down the line.

Garage Door Opener Motor Problems

If your opener hums but doesn’t move the door, the motor may be the issue.

• Disconnect and Test Manually – Pull the emergency release cord and try lifting the door manually. If it’s heavy or stuck, the problem might not be the opener, but the door’s springs or tracks.
• Overheating Motor – Some openers shut down temporarily if they overheat. Wait 15-20 minutes and try again.
• Internal Motor Issues – If you hear strange noises or the motor won’t activate, you may need a replacement opener.

Motor problems are often more complex and may require professional diagnosis and repair.

When to Call a Garage Door Technician

While many issues can be resolved with basic garage door opener troubleshooting, others—like broken springs, wiring problems, or major motor failures—should be handled by a trained technician. Garage doors are heavy and under tension, so safety should always be a priority.

If you’ve gone through these steps and your garage door still isn’t working properly, George & Sons Garage Doors is here to help. We offer same-day service, garage door sensor repair, opener replacements, and more throughout Northern Nevada—including Reno, Carson City, Sparks, and beyond. Our team is local, family-owned and operated, and committed to honest service and lasting results. Reach out to us today and get the assistance you need.