Broken garage door spring? This article shows how to open the door manually and avoid costly repairs!
A broken garage door spring can quickly mess up your day. If you’re in a rush and the door won’t open, don’t panic. Many ask, “How do I open my garage door if the spring is broken?” This easy guide will show you how to do it safely without causing harm.
First, pull the red cord hanging from the opener to release the door. Gently raise the garage door from the bottom. It’s heavy, so ask someone to help. Once it’s open, use clamps or pliers on the track to hold it in place. It’s still best to call a garage door repair expert to stay safe.
Why Garage Door Springs Are Essential for Safe Operation
It’s important to learn what springs do before opening a garage door with a broken spring. Most doors use either a torsion spring or an extension spring.
1. Torsion Springs
Torsion springs sit above the garage door, running across a metal shaft. They use torque to help lift the door. As the door opens, the springs twist and release energy. This makes it easier and safer to open heavy garage doors without too much effort.
2. Extension Springs
Extension springs are on both sides of the garage door. When the door closes, they stretch; when it opens, they return to shape, using their energy to raise the door. These springs are important for keeping the garage door balanced and working correctly.
How Do You Open a Garage Door with a Broken Spring
When the spring is broken, disconnect the power, gently lift the door, and ensure it stays up. Don’t force it. If it’s too heavy, stop and call a garage door expert right away.
Step 1: Disconnect the Garage Door Opener
Find the red emergency cord hanging from the opener rail. Pull it to separate the garage door from the opener. This lets you move the door by hand. This is the first step if you ask, “How do I open my garage door if the spring is broken?”
Step 2: Lift the Door Carefully
A broken spring makes your garage door feel much heavier than usual. Use both hands to lift it slowly and keep your back straight to avoid injury. If the door feels too heavy, don’t force it. Call a garage door expert to assist you safely.
Step 3: Keep the Door Safely Open
Once the door is lifted, you need to keep it from sliding down. Place a clamp or lock pliers on the track below the bottom roller. This holds the door in place and helps keep everyone safe while you check for spring damage.
Step 4: Check the Springs for Damage
Inspect the springs to find out if they’re broken. Torsion springs may have a gap, while extension springs look stretched or snapped. If you can’t tell what’s wrong, contact a garage door repair expert to inspect it and recommend the proper fix.
Step 5: Use the Door Only for Now
You can open and close the door by hand, which is only temporary. A broken spring makes the system unsafe and hard to use. If you’re wondering how to open my garage door if the spring is broken, call for help.
Safety Tips for Handling a Broken Garage Door Spring
Broken springs make garage doors unsafe. Wear gloves, lift carefully, and keep others away. Never try to fix springs because they are under high tension and need the right tools and skills.
1. Never Replace Garage Door Springs Yourself
Never try to replace garage door springs on your own. These springs are tightly wound and can snap if mishandled, causing serious injury. If you ask, “How do I open my garage door if the spring is broken?” always call a trained garage door technician.
2. Avoid Forcing the Door
If your garage door doesn’t open smoothly, don’t force it. A damaged spring causes the door to feel heavier and off-balance. Trying to lift it can cause more damage or hurt you. It’s safer to stop and let a garage door expert handle the problem.
3. Keep Children and Pets Away
Keep children and pets away from a garage door with a broken spring. It can drop fast or move without warning. Until it’s fixed, it’s not safe to be near it. Make sure everyone stays away until the repair is done.
4. Call a Garage Door Expert
It’s best to contact a garage door pro. They have the tools and skills to handle broken springs safely. Many ask, “How do I open my garage door if the spring is broken?” A pro can do it correctly.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a Broken Spring
A bad spring stresses the opener, tracks, and cables. Waiting to fix it can cause more damage and safety risks. Spot the signs early to avoid costly garage door problems.
1. Damage to the Door, Tracks, or Opener
Using a garage door with a broken spring can cause extra stress on the tracks, panels, and opener. This often leads to more damage and costly garage door repairs. It’s best not to open the door until a professional checks the system and makes it safe again.
2. Serious Safety Hazards
A broken spring can make the garage door fall without warning. This can hurt someone or damage anything under the door. Avoid using the door in this condition and stay clear of the area until a trained garage door technician fixes it.
3. More Wear and Tear
Trying to open the door with a broken spring puts pressure on other parts like cables, rollers, and the opener. This can lead to faster wear and more problems. The safest and smartest way is to wait for a professional to fix it.
When to Call a Professional for a Broken Garage Door Spring
While you can try DIY methods in an emergency, fixing garage door springs is unsafe. EDM Garage Doors, LLC has the right tools and skills to handle it. Call a garage door expert immediately if you see any of these signs.
- A loud “bang” when the spring breaks
- The door is crooked or won’t stay open
- Visible damage to springs, cables, or rollers
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you manually open a garage door if the spring is broken?
Yes, you can open the garage door by hand if the garage door spring is broken, but it will feel heavy. Use both hands and lift it slowly. Don’t do it alone. It’s safer to call a garage door repair expert for help.
What do you do if the garage door spring is broken?
If the garage door spring is broken, stop using the opener immediately. Pull the red release cord to switch it to manual mode. Avoid lifting the door alone. A skilled garage door technician should handle the broken spring.
Can a garage door work without a spring?
No, a garage door won’t work well without a spring. The spring helps lift the door’s weight. If the garage door spring is broken, the motor might not open the door. You have to repair the spring for the door to work properly again.
How do you manually open a garage door from the outside?
To open the new garage door from outside, find the emergency release kit in the center of the top panel. Unlock it with the key, pull the release cord inside, and slowly lift the door. If the door feels too heavy, stop and get help.
How to emergency release a garage door?
Pull the red cord hanging from the opener rail to emergency release the garage door. Do this only if the door is all the way closed. If the garage door spring is broken, the door may fall fast. Use caution and call an emergency garage door service for help.
Conclusion
A broken garage door spring can quickly ruin your day. Whether you’re leaving for work or coming home, a stuck garage door is never fun. This guide shows simple ways to open it safely without causing more damage.
Many ask, “How do I open my garage door if the spring is broken?” You can pull the red emergency release cord and lift the door slowly with help. But even if it works, it’s not always safe. It’s better to let an expert handle it before things get worse.
If you need garage door repair in Volo, EDM Garage Doors, LLC is here to help. We fix broken springs and other issues fast, so your door works like new. Call us now for reliable and friendly help to keep your garage working safely.
End Note
If your garage door spring is broken, EDM Garage Doors, LLC can help. We offer trusted garage door services, from spring replacement to complete upgrades. Visit our website for safe, lasting solutions for a smooth, reliable door.
We serve Volo, Lake Forest, and nearby areas with dependable, fast service. Our Amarr door collection and Genie openers offer strong and stylish choices. Our emergency service is always available. View all service areas to find help near you.
Learn more about our trusted team on the About Us page and get valuable tips from our blog. Stay connected with us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Read customer feedback on Yelp and reach out directly through our contact page.
EDM Garage Doors, LLC
Volo, IL 60073
+18474163036