Are Garage Door Springs Dangerous?
Are Garage Door Springs Dangerous?
Garage door springs are critical for smooth operation but can be extremely dangerous if they break or are mishandled. Tightly wound and under immense tension, a garage door spring can cause severe injury or even death if not properly handled.
What Happens When a Garage Door Spring Breaks?
1. Function: Garage door springs counterbalance the door’s weight, making it easy to open. When a spring breaks, the door's true weight is revealed, making it too heavy for manual or electric operation. Many garage doors weigh hundreds of pounds and cannot be lifted without spring assistance.
2. Torsion Springs: When these springs break, they make a loud bang, and the door becomes inoperable until new springs are installed. The sudden loss of tension can cause the door to slam shut, posing a significant hazard.
3. Extension Springs: These springs can be especially dangerous if they break, as they can turn into projectiles. Unlike torsion springs, extension springs are stretched along the sides of the garage door tracks and can cause damage or injury if they snap. Installing a safety cable can prevent extension springs from causing harm.
Why Are Garage Door Springs Dangerous?
1. Torsion Springs: These springs, when tensioned, carry hundreds of pounds of force. Attempting repairs without proper knowledge and tools can result in serious injury or death. The tension is necessary to lift the garage door with ease, but this same tension can cause severe harm if released suddenly.
2. Extension Springs: Similar to torsion springs, these also carry significant force when extended. Improper handling can turn them into dangerous projectiles, causing serious injury or damage. The force stored in the springs can be unexpectedly released if they are not handled correctly.
How Often Do Garage Door Springs Break?
Garage springs are rated by cycles (one cycle = one open and close). The average spring is rated for 8,000 to 10,000 cycles. Frequent use can quickly add up, reducing the spring’s lifespan. For instance, using your garage door multiple times a day can significantly shorten the life of the springs. Garage Door Dynasty Springs average 80,000 cycles, offering a longer lifespan.
Importance of Maintaining Your Garage Door Spring
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, there were around 2,000 garage door opener injuries in 2021. Proper maintenance is key to preventing accidents. Here’s how to ensure your garage door spring stays in good condition:
1. Lubrication: Lubricate the spring twice a year with a silicone-based lubricant. Apply it across the entire spring, allowing it to seep into the coils, then wipe off any excess. This helps reduce friction and wear, extending the spring’s life.
2. Usage: Limit opening and closing to necessary times. Springs generally last 7-9 years with regular use. Overusing the door can lead to quicker wear and a higher chance of breaking.
3. Noise: If the spring makes odd noises, call a garage door service company immediately. Never try to diagnose or repair it yourself to avoid serious injury. Odd sounds can be an early indicator of a problem, and professional inspection can prevent accidents.
Garage door springs are vital for the safe and efficient operation of your garage door, but they come with significant risks if not properly maintained or handled. Regular maintenance, proper usage, and professional inspections are crucial to ensure your garage door operates smoothly and safely. If you suspect any issues with your garage door springs, always contact a professional to handle repairs and replacements.
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Contact Garage Door Dynasty in Los Angeles for your garage door spring needs.
