Often used several times a day, the garage door is one of the most used appliances in your home. Since a defective door can make you late for work or school by preventing you from getting your car out of the garage, it is worth taking some time to maintain it.

1- Test the electric eye

The electric eye is located at either the bottom right or bottom left of the garage door. It is important to make sure that it works properly as this component is what keeps the door from closing when a car or child passes underneath. To test it, lower the garage door and wave your hand in front of the electric eye. If it is working properly, it should quickly stop the door from closing.

2- Visually inspect the door and mechanism

Once a month, take the time to inspect the garage door and opening mechanism. To do this, close the door and look at each cable, pulley and part of the mechanism and door in good lighting. You should also inspect the weather stripping and replace it as needed to lower your heating bill.

3- Open the garage door manually

If you have an automatic garage door, it is a good idea to try opening the door manually once a month. Once the door is closed, turn off the opening system, then open the door manually. It should open easily and completely. If this is not the case, the door may need to be oiled or repaired.

These tips will help prevent problems with your garage door year round, as well as delays that could arise when you cannot get your car out of the garage!