Garage door springs are under a tension equivalent to the weight of the door. Over time, the springs become weak and require maintenance. Here are a few tips perform a safety checkup. This test should only be performed by an able bodied person.
Weight of Door:
A well balanced garage door will stay in the same position at any point of travel.
To test the system you must first disconnect the door from the motor using the emergency release cord. With the door down, pull the release cord. Next, raise the door by hand 6 inches above the ground. If it doesn't fall, it passes the portion of the test. If it is heavy and does indeed fall, the springs should be replaced by a qualified technician.
Can The Garage Door Travel All the Way Up Without Being Forced?
With the door still on manual, check to see if the door will travel all the way up without having to force it. Sometimes the door goes up very easily the first 4-5 feet. If it becomes very heavy at this point that would indicate that your garage door springs have become significantly weak and should be replaced immediately.
Overview
How to Test Your Garage Door Springs
1. With the door down, pull the emergency release cord.
2. Lift the door six inches. If it falls, the springs should be replaced.
3. Check to see if the door goes all the way up. If it has to be forced,
the springs should be replaced. It should stay up by itself.
4. If the door passes both tests, you have a well balanced system.
