Why the Garage Door Is Not Opening, But the Motor Is Running

Automatic garage door openers come in quite handy, especially if it’s raining, snowing, or you simply enjoy saying “open sesame.” But garage openers aren't perfect and may wear out or break down over time. Several factors could be to blame if your garage door is not opening but the motor is running. Here's what could be happening—and what to do about it.

1. The Garage Door Opener Is Damaged

When the garage door opener motor runs, but the door doesn't budge, the opener itself may have an issue. Your door opener can wear out in a few ways:

• The gear drive may break down

• The trolley carriage may break

• The circuit board may stop functioning

• There may not be enough tension in the chain

If you suspect the door opener is the problem, your best bet is to call a local garage door repair company. A repair pro can inspect the motor and accurately diagnose the issue, then let you know your options, such as repairing or replacing the opener.

2. The Safety Sensors Are Misaligned

Modern garage doors feature photo eyes, or safety sensors, located near the floor on either side of the door opening. The safety sensors play an important role—they keep the door from closing if an object or person is standing underneath it. 

But, sometimes, those sensors move out of place and stop functioning properly. The garage door opener believes something is blocking the door, so it doesn't budge. 

Readjusting the sensors is something you can do yourself, though you may need a level to do so. In some cases, a smudge of dirt or dust on the front of the sensors may block them, so all you need to do is wipe it clean with a fresh hand towel. 

Direct sunlight can also interfere with the safety sensors, causing them to do their job a little too well. If the sun shines specifically on the sensors, consider repositioning the sensors so they are in the shade. You may also install sunscreens around the sensors to help them continue operating even on the sunniest days.

3. The Garage Door Springs Are Worn Out

The average garage door spring lasts for about 10,000 cycles, or a little over a decade, if you open your garage door twice a day, every day. Eventually, the spring will wear out or break, and the door won't be able to open. That won't stop the motor from trying, though. 

If the spring is worn out or broken, it needs replacement. This isn't a DIY job, though, for a few reasons. Your garage door is heavy and you could hurt yourself if you try to move or remove it on your own. You also want to ensure the new springs are correctly installed to reduce the risk of future injury or damage to the garage door. Always call a garage pro for this task.

4. The Door Tracks Are Misaligned

Your garage door slides along rails or tracks as it opens and closes. Like other parts, those tracks are subject to wear and tear and may become misaligned or otherwise damaged. 

If you notice a track is out of alignment, you can try repositioning it yourself. With the garage door closed and the opener unplugged from its power source, loosen the screws that attach the rail to the wall or frame. Use a rubber mallet to tap the track back into place, then tighten the screws to hold it there. 

In some cases, damage to the rollers along the track can interfere with the garage door opening. Inspect the rollers to look for rust or debris buildup. You may need to replace rollers that are extensively damaged or rusty. Spraying the rollers with a lubricant like white lithium grease can extend their lives.

5. The Cable Has Snapped

The cables on your garage door support the spring, helping the door to open and close safely. Most doors have two cables, and if one snaps, it puts extra pressure on the other, not to mention additional strain on the spring. Sometimes, the door won't open if one cable has broken or is otherwise out of commission.

If you suspect a cable is broken and your garage door isn't opening, your best option is to call a garage door repair company to take a look. You don't want to risk injury or damage caused by a heavy, falling garage door.