The garage door motor is essential for smoothly opening and closing your garage door. It shouldn’t be making weird noises when working correctly. Unusual Sounds. If you hear unusual sounds, this can be a sign that something’s wrong. We must also learn to ignore these sounds as they can create a more significant problem in the future. Here are seven sounds you should listen for on your garage door motors and their meanings.
- Grinding Noise
However, at some point, there is a process of agony; we receive at least the clicks or pops and the grinding sound. Another possible sound: If you hear a grinding noise, it could result from the gears within the garage door motor wearing down. Gears can wear out and fail to perform over time. Some garage door manufacturers use sturdy materials so that the motors last longer, but like any such materials, wear and tear is inevitable. Check the motor if you hear grinding or replace broken parts.
- Squeaking or Squealing Sound
High-pitched noise, like a squeaking or squealing sound, is irritating. This noise typically occurs when components of the garage door system need to be lubricated. Whether they consist of traditional garage doors, contemporary garage doors, or carriage garage doors, they all have moving parts that need to be maintained in a well-oiled state to enhance your garage door’s lifespan and minimize friction. If you hear squeaking, try putting lubricant on the rollers, the hinges, and the tracks. If there’s ongoing noise, there could be a more significant issue, and you might need professional assistance from garage door manufacturers.
- Rattling Sound
A rattling sound refers to a repeated shaking noise. When screws, bolts, or other small parts inside the garage door motor or tracks are loose, it can cause this. And gradually, vibrations from regular use can cause these components to loosen. If the rattling happens, check all screws and bolts in the motor and the garage door system. Remember that some of these are adjusted, and tightening them may quiet them down. If the rattling doesn’t stop, the next step may be to have a professional take a look.
- Banging or Thumping Noise
Sometimes, when the garage door is out of balance, it makes a banging or thumping noise. If the door does not move evenly, it could slam into the tracks or ground. All types of garage doors should move freely and not make banging sounds. If you hear this sound, check the door’s balance by manually lifting it halfway. The springs may need to be adjusted if it does not hold there. Repairs to springs are best left to professionals, as springs are taut and dangerous.
- Clicking Sound
A clicking sound is a series of banging sounds. This sound can be expected sometimes, mainly when the motor turns on and off. If the clicking sound is continuous, and the door is not closing or opening correctly, it could indicate an electrical issue. Certain garage door motor manufacturers have motors designed with wear-out sensors and circuit boards. A clicking sound and an unresponsive door may mean you need a professional to examine the motor components and wiring.
- Humming Noise
A humming sound is a low, constant noise occurring due to the motor trying to work, but there is no garage door motion. Typically, this happens when the motor has power but is loafing. It could be a broken part in the motor, an issue with the gears, or a problem with the garage door springs. Whether it’s carriage, traditional, or contemporary garage doors, properly lifting these features relies on strong motors. If your motor runs but doesn’t move the door, power off the motor and call a pro.
- Popping Sound
The sound popped is a slight, abrupt noise. This can occur when specific components in the garage door system are misaligned, or adjustments are needed within the springs. The springs assist in raising and lowering the door quickly. When they become worn out or are broken, they can emit popping sounds. High-end garage door brands use good quality springs, but coil springs eventually wear out like all physical objects. If you notice popping, have a professional inspect the springs and other moving parts — a rapid failure with springs is best avoided.
Conclusion
You can avoid serious issues if you listen closely to your garage door motor’s sound. Grinding, squeaking, rattling, banging, clicking, humming, and popping should never be ignored if you hear them. Frequent cleaning, lubrication, and tightening down loose parts can reduce some of the sounds associated with this type of setup. However, if the sound persists, the more significant concern is to seek professional help. Whether you have standard, modern, or carriage garage doors, maintaining your garage door system will keep running smoothly and prevent expensive repairs.