Installing a garage door opener makes it easier and more convenient to use your garage. However, openers have many moving parts that require preventative maintenance and repairs as the garage door ages. The garage door limit switch is a crucial component that may require adjustment from time to time.
If your garage door won’t completely open or close, or the door reverses upon reaching the ground, then the limit switch is one of the first things our garage door repair teams evaluate. Here, we’ll explore limit switches and how to tell if yours needs resetting.
What Does a Limit Switch Do?
The limit switches on your garage door are mechanical switches designed to send a signal to your garage door opener that the limit of travel has been reached when opening and closing.
As the garage door motor turns, it turns the limit shaft, which moves the limit nuts up/down the shaft. When the limit nuts reach the switch, it trips the signal and stops the motor.
The purpose of the limit switch is to help protect the garage door, motor and other components from damage during operation. While some garage doors have one switch, most have two (one for the open, and one for the closed position).
Common Limit Switch Issues & How To Fix Them
Malfunctioning limit switches are a common issue that requires immediate attention. Left unresolved, there’s a risk of severe injury and property damage. And, if the door is open when it fails, there’s always the potential for heat loss/gain and theft.
If your door won’t open or close, these are some simple DIY fixes we recommend. However, if you’re not comfortable performing these, or if doing so would endanger your health or safety, it’s always best to contact our garage door repair team. We have the tools and training to safely and promptly complete these adjustments.
Incomplete Opening
If the door won’t open completely, open the garage door and use a tape measure to measure the distance between the bottom of the door to the top of the door opening.
Next, locate the limit switch adjuster, which is usually on the side of the garage door opener. Using a screwdriver, adjust the “up” limit switch, turning it clockwise roughly one turn for every three inches of additional travel required.
Then, test the door and repeat the same steps until the desired result is achieved.
Incomplete Closing
If the garage door won’t close completely, close the door and measure the distance from the bottom of the garage door to the ground. Next, locate the limit switch adjuster and use a screwdriver to turn the screw counterclockwise. Again, roughly one turn for every three inches of travel.
Test the door to confirm the desired result, and repeat and readjust if necessary.
The Garage Door Closes, Then Opens Again
If the door closes and immediately opens, you’ll need to adjust the “down” limit switch adjuster. When this happens, it has too much travel, so you’ll want to restrict it by turning the screw clockwise and repeating this until the desired limit is achieved.
Expert Garage Door Repair in Leesburg, IN
At Mike’s Garage Door, our team can help you enjoy the safe, reliable operation of your garage doors. Since 1990, we’ve proudly served the Leesburg community, and it’s our pleasure to help you enjoy the comfort and convenience you deserve.
When your garage door limit switch fails, our experts will promptly identify the cause and perform the required adjustments.
As a proud member of the Installed Building Products (IBP) Family of Companies, you can count on the expertise, experience and dedication of our team. We guarantee we’ll always provide the top-notch services and superior products you deserve.
Contact Mike’s Garage Door at (574) 253-0279 to schedule garage door service in Leesburg, IN, today.
