Are you aware of the risks involved with garage springs? These vital components of your garage door system may seem harmless, but they can pose a significant danger if not handled properly. In this blog post, we will discuss the potential dangers associated with garage springs and how to minimize the risks involved.
What are garage springs?
Garage springs are responsible for lifting and lowering your garage door. They come in two types: torsion springs and extension springs. Torsion springs are located above the garage door, while extension springs are placed beside the door. Both types of springs are under extreme tension, which enables them to lift the heavy garage door.
Understanding the Danger
While garage springs are essential for the operation of your garage door, they can be dangerous if not handled correctly. The tension in the springs can cause them to snap or break, which can result in serious injury or even death. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, garage door accidents account for over 30,000 injuries each year.
What Causes Garage Springs to Fail?
There are several reasons why garage springs may fail. One of the most common causes is wear and tear. Over time, the springs can become worn out and lose their tension. This can cause them to break or snap unexpectedly. Another cause of garage spring failure is incorrect installation. If the springs are not installed correctly, they may not be able to handle the weight of the garage door, which can cause them to fail.
Signs of Garage Spring Failure
It is essential to recognize the signs of garage spring failure to prevent accidents. Some common signs of garage spring failure include:
– The garage door is difficult to open or close
– The garage door is crooked or uneven
– There is a loud noise when opening or closing the garage door
– The garage door falls quickly when closing
If you notice any of these signs, it is crucial to contact a professional garage door technician immediately.
How to Minimize the Risks
There are several steps you can take to minimize the risks associated with garage springs. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
– Regular maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance checks with a professional garage door technician. They can inspect your garage door system for any signs of wear and tear and replace any parts that need it.
– Don’t attempt DIY repairs: Garage spring repair is not a DIY project. Attempting to repair or replace garage springs without the proper training and equipment can be dangerous. Always contact a professional garage door technician for repairs.
– Use caution when opening and closing the garage door: Pay attention when opening and closing the garage door. Never stand under the garage door or walk near it when it is opening or closing.
– Keep children and pets away from the garage door: Children and pets may not understand the dangers associated with garage doors. Keep them away from the garage door and teach them never to play near it.
Conclusion
Garage springs may seem like a small component of your garage door system, but they play a vital role in its operation. Understanding the risks involved with garage springs can help you take the necessary steps to minimize the risks and prevent accidents. Remember to schedule regular maintenance checks, avoid DIY repairs, use caution when opening and closing the garage door, and keep children and pets away from the garage door.
**People also ask:**
– **How often should garage springs be replaced?
** Garage springs should be replaced every 10,000 cycles, or approximately every 7-10 years.
– **Can I replace garage springs myself?
** Garage spring replacement is not a DIY project. It is essential to contact a professional garage door technician for repairs.
– **What happens if a garage spring breaks?
** If a garage spring breaks, it can cause the garage door to fall quickly and unexpectedly. This can result in serious injury or even death.
– **How much does it cost to replace garage springs?
** The cost of replacing garage springs varies depending on the type of springs and the location. Generally, it can cost anywhere from $200 to $400 for a professional garage door technician to replace garage springs.