G’day folks! If you’re anything like me, you probably don’t give much thought to your garage door until it makes a funny noise or outright refuses to budge. But here’s a crucial nugget of wisdom; garage doors can be dangerous if not handled (or maintained) properly. So, let’s dive into ten must-know safety tips to keep your garage door running smoothly and safely.
1. Regular Maintenance is Key
Just like your ute needs regular services, so does your garage door. Give your door a once-over every few months to make sure all is shipshape. Tighten loose nuts and bolts, inspect cables and tracks, and check the weather seal for signs of wear and tear. A little maintenance goes a long way in preventing mishaps.
2. Embrace Technology: Safety Features
Modern garage doors are packed with safety features like photo eye sensors and auto-reverse mechanisms. The sensors create a light beam across the door opening, stopping the door from closing if something (or someone) breaks the beam. This tech has been around since the early ‘90s, and it’s an absolute game-changer when it comes to preventing accidents.
3. Show Some Love to Moving Parts
Moving parts need your love and attention too. Lubricate the springs and other moving bits to keep everything running smoothly and quietly. This simple act will not only extend the life of the mechanisms but also make them safer. However, if you’re not a fan of messing around with lubricants, consider sealed rollers that don’t require any lubrication.
4. Stay Alert with the Emergency Release
Know where the emergency release handle is located and how to use it. In case of a power outage or motor failure, this handle allows you to manually open and close the garage door. Remember to reattach it once power is back to breathe life back into your automatic system.
5. Mind the Door’s Balance
The springs do the heavy lifting, not the electric opener. Properly balanced springs mean the door won’t unexpectedly slide down. How do you know if it’s balanced? The door should hover mid-air when you stop it halfway. If it doesn’t, call in a pro for a balance check.
6. Keep a Safe Distance
Here’s a golden rule – never walk or stand under a moving garage door. You never know when a malfunction might occur, causing the door to drop unexpectedly. It’s a simple precaution but one that can prevent serious injuries.
7. Educate the Kids
Kids are curious little creatures and might see the garage door as another playground feature. Teach them about the importance of staying clear of the garage door and never playing with the opener. Safety is paramount, and a little education can go a long way.
8. Maintain a Clean Surrounding
Ensure the area around your garage door is clean and free from debris. When leaves, dirt, and other gunk clogs the tracks, it can cause serious operational problems, including unexpected jams or derailing.
9. Replace Broken Parts Promptly
Don’t turn a blind eye to broken parts. Snapped cables or worn-out springs can lead to bigger troubles. Call in the experts to replace any damaged parts immediately to avoid any potential risks and ensure everything operates as it should.
10. Regularly Test Safety Features
Perform regular tests on your door’s safety features like the photo eye sensors and the auto-reverse function. Place an object in the path of the door to ensure it reverses upon contact or breaks the sensor’s beam. These features are life-savers, so keep them in check.
Following these tips not only keeps your garage door in top-notch condition but also ensures it’s safe for everyone in the household. If you find yourself a bit out of depth with any maintenance work, don’t hesitate to call the experts – that’s what we’re here for.
Leave It to the Pros
Speaking of professionals, if your garage door needs some TLC or if any of this maintenance work seems daunting, don’t fret. At Filip Garage Door, we make it our mission to ensure your garage doors are not only functional but also safe to use. Trust us to handle your garage door care – after all, that’s our bread and butter!
Remember, while a well-maintained garage door can offer peace of mind, your safety and the safety of those around you should always come first. Cheers for reaching the end! I hope you’ve learned a thing or two about keeping your garage door safe and sound.
