Twice a year, not every weekend
Spring and fall: open the door, pull the release, and lift by hand. It should stay halfway without slamming. If it drops, the springs are tired. See how long springs last.
Wipe the photo-eye lenses. Test auto-reverse with a 2x4 on the floor. The door should hit the board and go back up. If it tries to crush the board, stop using the opener until the force and sensors are set.
Lubricate metal rollers, hinges, and the torsion spring with a garage-door lube, not WD-40. Skip nylon rollers. Wipe old grease out of the tracks instead of packing more in. Replace the bottom rubber if daylight shows under the door. That seal keeps out water and rodents in older Orange County garages.
Look at the cables. A few broken strands means replace the cable, not tape it. Same-day hardware work: garage door repair in Orange County and the city list.
- Balance test on the emergency release
- Photo-eye wipe and 2x4 reverse test
- Lube metal rollers and hinges only
- Bottom seal and cable visual check
Common questions
How often should I lubricate a garage door?
Twice a year is enough for most Orange County homes. Coastal doors near Huntington Beach or Newport can use a light coat more often on the springs. Call (949) 539-0009 if it still squeals after lube.
What lubricant should I use?
A spray made for garage doors. Not household oil, not grease in the tracks. Call (949) 539-0009 if you are unsure which rollers you have.
Is the safety reverse test required?
Yes. Federal rules require the door to reverse on an obstruction. If yours does not, stop using the opener and call (949) 539-0009.