Garage Door Opener Not Working: Simple Checks

When a garage door opener stops responding, it is easy to assume it has failed. Often it has not. A short list of checks, done in order, can rule out the simple causes before you call anyone.

Check power first. Is the opener plugged in, and does the outlet work? Plug a lamp into the same outlet. A tripped breaker or a switched-off outlet can make an opener look dead. Check that the light on the opener unit or the wall control comes on.

Check the wall control. Many wall controls have a lock button that stops the remotes from working. If the lock is on, the remotes do nothing but the wall button still works. Press the lock button again to switch it off, and try the remote.

Check the remote. Replace the battery. If the remote still does nothing, try the wall button. If the wall button works but the remote does not, the remote may need to be reprogrammed or replaced. If neither works, the problem is likely the opener, the power or a sensor.

Check the sensors. The two small units near the floor can stop the door from closing. Wipe the lenses and make sure they face each other. Our sensor guide explains the checks in more detail.

Now test the door. With the door fully closed, pull the red release cord to disconnect the opener, and lift the door by hand. If it lifts easily and stays open at waist height, the door hardware is likely fine and the opener is the issue. If it is heavy, sticks or drops, stop. The problem is probably a spring, a cable or a track, and you should not run the opener. Do not touch the springs or cables.

If you have worked through the list, call. Your call is connected to an independent local service provider. Tell it the make of the opener if you know it, what happens when you press the button and which checks you already did. The Garage Door Opener Repair page lists more questions to ask.