A garage door is one of those household items that we often take for granted. It silently serves its purpose, opening and closing day in and day out. 

But what if one day it refuses to budge? One of the common culprits behind a non-operational garage door is a burned-out motor. If you’re in Fairfield, CA, and you’re wondering if your garage door motor has given up, here are some telltale signs to look for.

1. Unusual Noises

Garage doors can be noisy, but if you start hearing grinding, humming, or buzzing sounds that weren’t there before, it could be a sign of motor trouble. A functioning motor will produce a consistent hum; however, abrupt or irregular sounds might indicate it’s on its last legs.

2. No Movement, But Lights Are On

If you press the remote or the wall switch and notice that the garage door lights are functioning, but the door isn’t moving, there’s a high chance that the motor is burned out. The lights show that the unit is getting power, but the lack of movement points to a motor problem.

3. The Door Only Moves Partially

Sometimes, a dying motor will still show signs of life. Your garage door might open or close partially but then stop abruptly. This inconsistent movement can be frustrating and is a clear signal that the motor isn’t operating at full capacity.

4. Overheating

Like any other motor, a garage door motor can overheat. If you touch the motor (carefully!) after attempting to operate the door and it’s too hot to handle, it could be burned out. Remember, motors are designed to handle the task of lifting and lowering doors, so if they’re struggling, they’ll naturally generate more heat.

5. Age and Wear

Nothing lasts forever. If your garage door motor has been serving you well for over a decade, it might just be showing signs of natural wear and tear. Age can make the motor more susceptible to issues and burnouts.

6. Frequent Stops and Starts

A motor that’s on its way out might stop and start multiple times during a single operation cycle. If your door isn’t moving smoothly and keeps halting in its tracks, it might be time to inspect the motor.

Preventive Measures: Keeping Your Garage Door Motor in Top Shape

Before we wrap up, it’s worth emphasizing the importance of preventive care for your garage door motor. Often, regular garage door maintenance can help you avoid the hassle of a burned-out motor and prolong the lifespan of your entire garage door system.

Regular Lubrication:

Motors and the moving parts of your garage door benefit from periodic lubrication. Using a high-quality lubricant can reduce friction, ensuring smoother operation and reducing the wear and tear on the motor.

Keep the Tracks Clean:

Debris, dirt, or any obstruction on the tracks can put added strain on the motor. By regularly cleaning the tracks and ensuring they’re free from obstructions, you can minimize the unnecessary load on your motor.

Balance the Door:

An imbalanced door can force the motor to work harder than it should. You can check the balance by disconnecting the garage door opener and manually moving the door up to the halfway point. If it doesn’t stay put, it might be off-balance, indicating it’s time for a professional adjustment.

What To Do Next?

If you’ve recognized any of the above symptoms in your garage door motor, it’s essential to act promptly. Continued use of a faulty motor can lead to further damage and potential safety hazards.

When it comes to getting garage door repair in Fairfield, CA, GoPro Garage Doors is your best bet. From reliable diagnostics to expert repairs, GoPro Garage Doors boasts a team of seasoned professionals ready to address your needs. 

With a reputation built on trust, timely service, and top-notch workmanship, we have become a go-to for many Fairfield residents. Understanding the intricacies of garage door motors and being equipped with the latest tools, our technicians ensure that your garage door is back to optimal performance in no time. 

Conclusion

A malfunctioning garage door motor can be a source of stress. Fortunately, if you’re in or around Fairfield, CA, GoPro Garage Doors are here to help. Our skilled technicians are experts at diagnosing and fixing all garage door-related issues. 

So, if you suspect your motor might be burned out, don’t hesitate to reach out to us! We offer maintenance, installation, replacement, and garage door repair services in Fairfield.

Our other service areas include:

• Tracy, CA
• Stockton, CA
• San Jose, CA
• Fremont, CA
• Dorado Hills, CA
• Antioch, CA
• Rocklin, CA