adjust garage door travel

Garage DoorSource: bing.com
Garage doors are essential in protecting your car and other belongings. However, like any other mechanical system, they require regular maintenance. One of the most important aspects of garage door maintenance is adjusting the travel. In this article, we’ll discuss how to adjust the travel of your garage door to ensure it operates smoothly and safely.

What is Garage Door Travel?

Garage Door TravelSource: bing.com
Garage door travel refers to the distance that the door moves when opening or closing. The travel is determined by the garage door opener’s settings. The opener is programmed to stop the door at a certain height, which is the travel limit. If the travel limit is not set correctly, the door may not open or close properly. This can cause the door to become damaged or even pose a safety hazard.

Why Adjust Garage Door Travel?

Adjust Garage Door TravelSource: bing.com
Adjusting the garage door travel is important for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures that the door operates smoothly and doesn’t become damaged. If the travel limit is set correctly, the door will stop at the correct height, preventing it from hitting the ceiling or floor. Secondly, adjusting the travel limit can improve the safety of the garage door. If the door stops at the correct height, it reduces the risk of the door hitting any objects or people in its path.

How to Adjust Garage Door Travel

Garage Door MaintenanceSource: bing.com
Adjusting the garage door travel is a straightforward process that can be done by following these steps:
  1. Locate the travel adjustment screw on the side of the opener. The screw will be labeled “Up” or “Open” and “Down” or “Close”.
  2. Using a screwdriver, turn the “Up” or “Open” screw clockwise to increase the travel limit and counterclockwise to decrease it.
  3. Using a screwdriver, turn the “Down” or “Close” screw clockwise to increase the travel limit and counterclockwise to decrease it.
  4. To test the travel limit, open or close the garage door all the way. If it hits the ceiling or floor, adjust the screws accordingly.

Garage Door ScrewdriverSource: bing.com
It’s important to note that the travel limit should only be adjusted by a quarter turn at a time. This will ensure that the adjustment is gradual and doesn’t cause any damage to the door or opener.

When to Adjust Garage Door Travel

Garage Door AdjustmentSource: bing.com
It’s recommended to adjust the garage door travel once a year. However, if you notice that the door is not opening or closing properly, or it’s hitting the ceiling or floor, you should adjust the travel limit immediately. Additionally, if you have installed a new garage door opener or replaced the door, you should adjust the travel limit to ensure it operates correctly.

Conclusion

Garage Door MaintenanceSource: bing.com
Adjusting the garage door travel is a crucial aspect of garage door maintenance. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your garage door operates smoothly and safely. Remember to adjust the travel limit slowly and test it after each adjustment. If you’re unsure how to adjust the travel limit, contact a professional garage door technician to assist you.
FAQ
1. How do I know if I need to adjust the garage door travel?
If your garage door is not opening or closing properly or is hitting the ceiling or floor, you should adjust the travel limit.
2. Can I adjust the garage door travel myself?
Yes, adjusting the garage door travel is a simple process that can be done by following the steps outlined in this article. However, if you’re unsure, it’s recommended to contact a professional garage door technician to assist you.
3. How often should I adjust the garage door travel?
It’s recommended to adjust the garage door travel once a year. However, if you notice any issues with the door, you should adjust the travel limit immediately.