How to Replace Broken Garage Door Spring
Start by closing the garage door and unplug the opener’s power cord.
Garage door springs are crucial components that allow the smooth operation of the garage door. Whether it's a torsion or extension system, these springs bear significant tension and counterbalance the door's weight. If one breaks, the garage door becomes unsafe and requires immediate attention. While homeowners need to understand the replacement process, replacing garage door springs is not a DIY job. The risks of injury are high, so all tasks related to spring replacement should be performed by a trained technician.
Signs of a Broken Spring
Before a garage door spring fails, it may show warning signs. Common indicators include a heavy or uneven door, a loud snap from the garage, or visible gaps in the spring. Fixing a broken garage door spring without the right tools or experience can be extremely dangerous. Knowing when to call a professional for a broken garage door spring replacement helps prevent further damage and personal injury.
Prepare for Replacement
When a technician arrives to replace a broken garage door spring, they begin by ensuring all safety protocols are in place. The garage door is closed entirely, and the automatic opener is unplugged or disconnected from power to avoid accidental activation. Any trained expert changing garage door springs will also use proper personal protective equipment and professional-grade tools.
Measure the Springs
A key step in the replacement process involves measuring the springs. The broken spring is measured and compared to the new one to ensure proper sizing. Technicians measure the length of the spring, its inside diameter, and the number of coils per inch to determine the correct wire size.
Matching the correct spring ensures balance and tension alignment, preventing premature wear or damage. Technicians avoid touching the winding cones, which are still under tension. Proper handling is essential for anyone who is replacing garage door springs safely.
Mark the Torsion Shaft
The next phase in replacing garage door springs involves marking the torsion shaft and cable drums. Professionals use a marker or file to make reference points on the shaft and drum ends to help with reassembly and alignment. This ensures that the door operates level and smoothly after installation.
Unwind the Old Springs
Unwinding a torsion spring requires caution. Technicians insert a winding bar into the cone and listen for the click as it sits. While securely holding the winding bar, they use a wrench to loosen the set screws. After each set screw is loosened, they gradually unwind the spring using a second winding bar.
This process is repeated slowly and carefully until all tension is released from the spring. Fixing garage door spring systems without following these steps can cause the bar to whip or snap, risking serious harm.
Loosen the Torsion Hardware
Once the tension is fully released, the torsion hardware is disassembled. The bolts connecting the spring cones to the center bracket are removed. The technician slides the old springs away from the shaft and toward the cable drums. They also loosen the drum set screws to release the cables.
At this stage, the technician carefully removes the spring and prepares the new one for installation. Before proceeding, it's important that all parts are clean and inspected.
Replace the Springs
When it's time to replace broken garage door spring components, the process begins with aligning the new spring on the shaft. The stationary cone end is inserted first, followed by the winding cone. Once the spring is positioned correctly, the technician attaches the cable drums and aligns them with the shaft marks.
Proper tension is applied using winding bars to adjust the spring. Depending on the size of the door and type of spring, technicians may make 30 or more quarter turns to achieve the correct tension. The set screws are tightened securely, and the spring is tested for balance.
How to Install Garage Door Springs Safely
Only trained professionals should install garage door springs correctly. They follow strict safety protocols, including using double vise grips to prevent shaft movement and placing ladders and tools in secure positions.
Any error during this process can lead to severe injury, especially if the spring snaps or slips during winding. Repairing a broken garage door spring with the wrong tools or technique can also cause door misalignment, panel warping, or damage to the opener.
Why Professional Service Matters
While guides on replacing broken garage door spring systems exist, the safest and most reliable option is to call a licensed garage door technician. Professional services not only verify safety but also provide:
Correct diagnosis and identification of the spring-type
Matching replacement springs
Precision balancing of the garage door
Inspection of related hardware
Technicians also understand how to fix a broken garage door spring within manufacturer specifications, ensuring long-term durability and smooth performance.
Repairing broken garage door spring systems involves more than just the spring itself. The torsion shaft, end bearings, cables, and opener play a role. An expert will inspect and repair broken garage door spring components and any affected parts.
Conclusion
Garage door spring failure is a serious issue that compromises the safety and functionality of the entire system. Whether you're looking into how to replace broken garage door spring components or need help repairing broken garage door spring hardware, always leave the task to qualified professionals. They have the experience, tools, and training to complete the job correctly and safely.
Changing garage door springs without the proper knowledge can be dangerous. Instead, trust a certified technician who understands the complexities of broken garage door spring replacement. That decision not only protects your property but also ensures the safety of everyone in your home.
Phoenician Garage Door & Repair specializes in efficiently accomplishing all garage door jobs, from garage door drum replacement and garage door spring replacement to garage door cable repair and replacement. We offer easy online scheduling. Call (602) 610-0112.
