Introduction
When your garage door spring breaks, it can be a frustrating and inconvenient situation. However, knowing how to open a garage door with a broken spring can help you regain access to your garage until the spring can be repaired or replaced. In this article, we will explore different methods and precautions to safely open a garage door with a broken spring.
Understanding Garage Door Springs
Before we delve into the methods of opening a garage door with a broken spring, it is essential to understand the two types of springs commonly used in garage doors: torsion springs and extension springs.
Torsion springs are mounted horizontally above the garage door and use torque to lift the door. Extension springs, on the other hand, are located above the horizontal tracks on both sides of the door and extend when the door is closed to provide the necessary tension.
Safety First
Opening a garage door with a broken spring can be dangerous, so it is crucial to prioritize safety. Here are a few safety precautions to keep in mind:
Disconnect the power: Before attempting to open the garage door, disconnect the power to the opener to prevent any accidental activation.
Secure the door: Use clamps or locking pliers to secure the garage door in the closed position. This will prevent it from suddenly falling or opening too quickly when the spring is disconnected.
Seek professional help: While it is possible to open a garage door with a broken spring on your own, it is recommended to seek professional assistance. Garage door springs are under high tension and can cause serious injuries if mishandled.
Opening a Garage Door with a Broken Torsion Spring
If you have a torsion spring system, follow these steps to open your garage door:
1. Gather the necessary tools: You will need a sturdy ladder, a winding bar, and a pair of vice grips.
2. Locate the emergency release cord: This cord is usually red and hangs from the trolley that connects the opener to the door. Pulling this cord will disengage the opener from the door.
3. Manually lift the garage door: With the opener disengaged, you can now lift the garage door manually. Use caution and be prepared for the door to be heavy.
Opening a Garage Door with a Broken Extension Spring
If your garage door has extension springs, follow these steps to open it:
1. Gather the necessary tools: You will need a sturdy ladder and a pair of vice grips.
2. Secure the door in the closed position: Use clamps or locking pliers to keep the door securely closed.
3. Disconnect the extension spring: Locate the safety cable attached to the extension spring and remove it from the track hanger. This will release the tension on the spring.
4. Lift the garage door manually: With the tension released, you can now lift the garage door manually. Again, exercise caution as the door may be heavy.
Conclusion
While opening a garage door with a broken spring is possible, it is important to prioritize safety and consider seeking professional assistance. Garage door springs are under high tension and mishandling them can lead to serious injuries. If you are unsure or uncomfortable with the process, it is best to rely on a professional garage door repair service.
References
– doityourself.com
– garaga.com
– homestratosphere.com
