Garage door safety checklist for homeowners
A garage door is the largest moving object in most homes. These simple checks, based on guidance from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), help catch problems before someone gets hurt or the door fails.
1. The reverse test (with a 2x4)
The CPSC recommends placing a 2x4 board flat on the floor in the path of the door and closing it with the opener. The door should reverse when it strikes the board. If it doesn't, the CPSC says the opener should be disengaged until it's adjusted, repaired or replaced (CPSC).
Openers made since January 1, 1993 are required to have this kind of entrapment protection (CPSC). The CPSC advises testing the reversing feature following your opener's instructions, every month.
2. The photo-eye check
Most openers use electric-eye sensors near the floor on each side of the door. The CPSC says they should be installed 4 to 6 inches above the floor. With the door closing, pass something (not your foot or hand) through the beam. The door should stop and reverse.
3. The 30-day balance and hardware check
Every 30 days, the CPSC suggests:
- Using the manual release to disconnect the door from the opener (with the door closed), then lifting and lowering it by hand to confirm the springs are working
- Checking that hardware keeps the door on track
A properly balanced door should stay in place when stopped partway open. If it drifts down or shoots up, or it binds or sticks, the CPSC says it should be serviced by a professional. Don't adjust springs yourself. See spring repair.
4. Kids and remotes
- Mount the wall button high, out of children's reach.
- Keep remotes away from children.
- Teach kids never to play with the door or run under a closing door.
5. Look and listen
- Frayed cables, rusted or gapped springs, loose bolts, cracked rollers
- Grinding, scraping or jerky movement
- Gaps in the weatherstrip at the bottom
Any of these is worth a call before it becomes a breakdown.
This page summarizes public CPSC guidance for general information. Follow your opener manufacturer's instructions, and call a professional for any adjustment involving springs, cables or opener force settings.