Common Garage Door Opener Problems Colorado Homeowners Can Fix Themselves
If your garage door opener suddenly stops working, it doesn’t always mean you need a full replacement. Many common garage door opener issues are simple fixes that homeowners in Aurora and across Colorado can safely troubleshoot themselves.
At Garage Genius, we service and install both LiftMaster and Genie openers every day. These are the two most common brands in Colorado homes, and many of their frequent problems are easy to diagnose.
Here’s a practical guide to the most common opener issues — and what you can try before calling for professional repair.
Photo Eye Sensors Not Aligned or Blocked
One of the most common service calls is a garage door that starts to close, then immediately reverses. In most cases, the culprit is the safety photo eye sensors near the floor. These sensors prevent the door from closing if something is in the way. Dust, bumps, or misalignment can interrupt the beam.
DIY fixes you can try:
• Wipe both sensors clean with a soft cloth
• Make sure nothing is blocking the beam
• Check that both sensors are pointed directly at each other
• Look for steady indicator lights (blinking often means misalignment)
Emergency Release Has Been Disengaged
If your opener runs but the door doesn’t move, the emergency release may have been pulled. This red cord disconnects the door from the opener so it can be operated manually during power outages.
How to reconnect it:
• Pull the emergency release toward the door to reset it
• Run the opener once to re‑engage the trolley
• You should hear a click as it reconnects
Dead Remote Batteries or Wall Control Issues
Sometimes the simplest explanation is the correct one. Dead batteries or a faulty wall control can make it seem like the opener has failed.
Quick checks:
• Replace batteries in all remotes
• Test the wall button separately
• Check the breaker or GFCI outlet powering the opener
• Make sure the opener is plugged in securely
Door Reverses or Won’t Close Fully
If the door closes partway and reverses, the opener’s force or travel limits may need adjustment. Temperature swings in Colorado can affect how doors move, especially in winter
Before adjusting anything:
• Check tracks for debris or obstructions
• Inspect rollers for visible damage
• Make sure nothing is catching along the door path
When to Call a Professional:
While these DIY steps solve many common opener problems, some issues require expert attention. Call for service if you notice grinding noises, a heavy door, broken springs, frayed cables, or intermittent electrical issues.
These problems can be dangerous to handle without proper tools and training. Garage Genius provides professional garage door opener repair and installation throughout Aurora and the Denver metro. Whether it’s a quick fix or a full upgrade to a quiet smart opener, we’re here to help keep your system safe and reliable.
