What To Do When Your Garage Door Opens A Little Then Stops

Garage doors are essential to our hog and stressful. One such issue that many homeowners face is when the garage door opens a little then stops.

This problem can have various names, providing convenience and security. But when they malfunction, it can be frustrating, ranging from minor to major, and it\’s essential to identify the root cause to fix the issue. 

In this blog, we will discuss the possible reasons why your garage door is acting up and what you can do to troubleshoot the problem.

Common causes garage opens a little then stops

Here are some most common causes of the problem of a garage door opening a little then stops–

1. Obstruction 

 

The primary cause of not opening your garage door can be obstruction. If there is an obstruction in the path of the garage door, it may cause the door to open a little and then stop. This obstruction could be anything from a small object to debris or even ice.

So if there is any, sweep the area and make sure nothing is there to disturb. 

2. Broken Torsion Springs

 

Torsion springs are an essential component of garage doors, and they are responsible for counterbalancing the weight of the door. That means it has to work under intense pressure constantly. It’s obvious to be replaced more often than the rest of the parts in the system.

If one or both of the torsion springs are broken or not working the way they should, the door may open a little and then stop.

You can check this by disconnecting the cord from the opener and manually lifting it. If it’s heavy to raise, then it’s a problem with the opening springs. 

Read our article to know about types of garage door springs.

3. Limit Switch Issues 

 

A garage door has two limit switches, telling the motor when to stop and start. If the garage door starts to open and then stops, it could be due to a malfunctioning limit switch. This can be caused by debris or damage to the switch itself. 

If so, try cleaning the switch and checking for visible damage. If the problem continues, you may need to replace the limit switch altogether.

4. Track Problems

 

The garage door tracks are essential for the door\’s smooth operation. If the tracks have a problem, such as debris or damage, the door may open a little and then stop.  

Don’t forget to check if your garage door is off track. In that case, you might hear a grinding noise while opening the door. You should immediately stop using the door. Otherwise, it may worsen the damage. 

Read our article to know details about garage door panel repair.

5. Remote Problem

Your garage door opener may be having issues with its remote control. If the remote control is malfunctioning, it can cause the door to open a little and then stop.

Make sure to replace the batteries in the remote and check if the remote is working properly. If it is still not working, you should consider replacing the entire remote control unit.

Troubleshooting Steps to fix a garage door that is not opening all the way

If your garage door is not opening all the way, there are a few things you can try before calling a professional. 

First, check the tracks to make sure they are clean and clear. If they are, clean them and remove any debris. You can also check the tension on the springs and adjust them if necessary. 

Another common cause of the problem is the opener\’s limit switch, which may need to be adjusted. If none of these work, it may be time to call a professional to diagnose and fix the issue. 

Remember, garage door repairs can be dangerous, so it\’s important to take the necessary precautions and seek professional help to repair your garage door if you are unsure how to proceed.

Why Does My Garage Door Open a Little Then Stop?

If your garage door opens partially before abruptly stopping, several factors could be at play. One common issue is a misaligned or obstructed safety sensor. These sensors, located near the bottom of the door track, detect objects in the door’s path and halt its movement to prevent accidents.

Conclusion 

A garage door that opens only a little then stops can be a frustrating and potentially dangerous problem. 

With some troubleshooting and basic repairs, fixing the issue and restoring the door to proper working condition is often possible. It is important to take the necessary safety precautions and call a professional if you are uncertain about any repair steps. 

By proactively addressing the problem promptly, you can avoid expensive repairs or replacements and keep your garage door functioning fluently for years to come.

FAQ 

Why does my garage door goes up a foot then stops?

Your garage door might have safety sensors that detect obstructions in its path. The door will only open partially if an obstruction or the sensors are misaligned. Check the sensors and clear any obstructions to fix the issue.

How long do garage door openers last?

The lifespan of a garage door opener can vary depending on usage and maintenance, but typically they can last between 10-15 years. Regular maintenance can help prolong the life of the opener.

Do garage door openers need maintenance?

Yes, garage door openers require maintenance. Regular maintenance can help ensure the garage door opener functions properly and lasts longer. It is recommended to have a professional perform maintenance on the garage door opener at least once a year.

How do I know if my garage door sensor is bad?

If your garage door sensor is bad, the garage door may reverse or stop while opening or closing, the door may not close completely, the sensors\’ LED light may blink, or the door may not respond to the remote or wall switch.