China spring manufacturers shares how garage door springs should be installed

The garage door springs is a key component for the normal operation of the garage door. Its correct installation is not only related to the smooth operation of the garage door, but also related to the safety of the garage door user.

Types of garage door springs

Extension spring: Extension spring is a linear spring, usually installed on both sides of the garage door. It uses tension to balance the weight of the garage door and is suitable for lighter garage doors. The working principle of the tension spring is to stretch and compress as the door is lifted and lowered, so it has good flexibility and adaptability.
Torsion spring: A torsion spring is a spiral spring, usually installed on a horizontal rod above the garage door. It uses torsion to balance the weight of the garage door and is suitable for heavier garage doors. The working principle of torsion spring is to provide support through rotation, so it has high load-bearing capacity and stability.

Signs of damaged garage door springs

When a garage door springs is damaged, it will show some obvious signs. These signs can help us or maintenance personnel detect and deal with the problem in time. Below are some common signs of damaged garage door springs.

1. Abnormal sound

Spring breaking sound: When a spring breaks, it is usually accompanied by a loud cracking sound, similar to a firecracker or a Johnson & Johnson, which is a clear sign of spring failure.
Increased opening noise: If the garage door makes abnormal noise during the opening process, especially if the noise is significantly greater than usual, there may be a problem with the spring system.

2. Limited functions

The door does not open smoothly: If the garage door cannot rise smoothly or only opens a little and then closes automatically when you try to open it, the spring may have lost its elasticity or is damaged.
Difficulty with manual operation: A garage door that struggles to open easily, even when switched to manual mode, can also be a sign of damaged springs.

3. Abnormal visual inspection

Cracks in the Spring: Through visual inspection, if you find obvious cracks or cracks on the surface of the spring, this is a sign that the spring is aging and needs to be replaced.
Spring deformation: After long-term use, the spring may become deformed, such as bending or twisting, which is also a sign that it needs to be replaced.

4. Door body balance problem

Door body is unbalanced: If you find that the garage door cannot maintain balance during opening or closing, or it tilts on one side, it may be caused by uneven or damaged spring tension.

How to replace a garage door spring!

1. Preparation

Tool preparation: You will need a complete set of tools, including appropriate wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, and safety braces designed to support the garage door. Safety struts are the key to ensuring the safety of the operation process. They can prevent the door body from suddenly falling.
Purchasing springs: According to the type, size, weight of the garage door and the specifications of the original spring, accurately choose the appropriate new spring. As mentioned before, common garage door springs include tension springs and torsion springs. Be sure to distinguish them and choose the right one. At the same time, to ensure the reliable quality of new springs, you can refer to factors such as brand reputation and product certification.
Protective measures: Wear protective gloves, goggles and other personal protective equipment to avoid injury during operation.

2. Replacement steps

Release the original spring tension (taking a torsion spring as an example, a tension spring is similar but slightly different):
Use safety struts to prop up the garage door to a position slightly above half its opening height so that the door hovers stably. This step is crucial as it can effectively remove most of the load from the spring.
Locate the torsion spring’s retaining bolts or nuts, usually located on either end of the center shaft at the top of the garage door. Use a wrench to slowly loosen these connections. Pay attention to the rebound force of the spring during the process, and release the torsional energy of the spring gradually and evenly to prevent danger caused by sudden rebound.

3. Remove the old spring:

For torsion springs, after the tension is completely released, carefully remove the spring from the central axis. Pay attention to the installation direction and connection method of the spring for reference when installing a new spring later.
If it is a tension spring, first remove the hooks or rings connecting both ends of the spring to the garage door and fixed components, and then take out the spring completely. Also pay attention to the original installation details of the spring.

4. Install new spring:

Install the torsion spring:

Place the inner ring of the new spring over the center shaft at the top of the garage door, making sure it fits snugly, tapping lightly with a tool into place if necessary.
According to the installation instructions of the spring, use a torque wrench to twist the connecting arm of the spring according to the specified torque value, and preload the spring with a certain torque. This step must strictly control the torque, which is related to the subsequent working effect and life of the spring.

Install the tension spring:

Fix one end of the spring to the mounting plate on the track side of the garage door, and the hook should be firmly embedded in the slot.
Connect the other end of the tension spring to the corresponding hanging point on the garage door. At the same time, adjust the tension length of the spring to adapt it to the opening height and weight of the garage door. You can refer to the tension state of the old spring or determine it through simple calculations. Suitable length.

5. Debugging:

Do not remove the safety strut immediately after installing the new spring. Manually open and close the garage door several times, and carefully observe the operating status of the door to see if there are any problems such as jamming, abnormal noise, abnormal vibration, or abnormal opening and closing height.
If problems are found, stop the operation in time and recheck whether the spring is installed correctly and the connection parts are firm until the door runs smoothly.

6. Finishing:

After confirming that the garage door is operating normally, slowly remove the safety stay and allow the garage door to operate normally with the force of the new spring.
Properly dispose of the replaced old springs to avoid potential safety hazards.

In short, when replacing garage door springs, you need to operate with caution, strictly follow the steps, and take adequate safety precautions to successfully complete the replacement and ensure the safe and efficient operation of the garage door. Replacing a garage door springs can be dangerous if done incorrectly.

Tips for replacing garage door springs

Wear protective equipment such as gloves and goggles.
Cut off the power of the electric door opener and switch to manual mode.
Carefully release the old spring tension to avoid sudden release.
Make sure the new spring matches the old spring model.
Follow the installation instructions and install the new spring correctly.
Manually test the garage door and adjust the spring tension to balance.
If you are unfamiliar with the operation or lack experience, seek professional help.
Regularly inspect and maintain the garage door and its spring system.

Follow these simple safety precautions to ensure safety and effectiveness when replacing your garage door springs.

Regularly checking the condition of your garage door springs is an important step in keeping your garage door functioning properly and safe to use. Routine maintenance can effectively extend the life of your garage door springs.

Tips to extend the life of your garage door springs

Regular cleaning: Regularly remove dust, oil and other impurities on the surface of the spring to prevent corrosion or affect the lubrication effect.
Lubrication and maintenance: Lubricate the spring at regular intervals to reduce friction and wear. The frequency of lubrication can be adjusted according to the use environment and the state of the spring. It is generally recommended to lubricate at least once a year.
Check the status: Check the status of the spring regularly, including whether it is deformed, cracked or loose.
Avoid overuse: When operating the garage door, avoid over-stretching or compressing the spring to avoid excessive pressure on the spring.
Professional maintenance: If the garage door springs fails or needs repair, it is recommended to seek help from professional maintenance personnel.

Safety issues during the garage door springs replacement process cannot be ignored. Only by strictly following the above safety precautions and operating every step carefully can you ensure your own safety, successfully complete the spring replacement work, and ensure the safe and efficient use of the garage door.