How to Test the Balance of Your Garage Door

Your garage door probably opens and closes multiple times a day—but when was the last time you checked if it’s properly balanced?

Most homeowners in Lincoln don’t think about garage door balance until something goes wrong. But catching a small imbalance early can help you avoid more serious problems later—like worn-out openers, broken springs, or even a door that won’t open at all.

Luckily, testing your garage door’s balance is quick, easy, and totally doable without calling in a pro—yet.

Let’s walk through how to do it safely.

Why Balance Matters

A balanced garage door lifts evenly and stays in place when you open it halfway. If it’s unbalanced, you’ll likely notice:

• The door feels heavier than normal
• It starts to close on its own
• It jerks or moves unevenly
• Your opener sounds like it’s straining

These are subtle red flags that your springs may be worn out or your system is working harder than it should.

Step-by-Step: How to Test the Balance

Step 1: Close the garage door fully.

Make sure it’s completely shut before starting. Don’t try this test when the door is partially open.

Step 2: Disconnect the opener.

Pull the red emergency release cord to disconnect the opener from the door. This allows you to lift it manually.

Step 3: Lift the door halfway.

Use both hands to lift the door manually until it’s about waist-high (roughly halfway open). Then let go gently.

What should happen:

• If the door stays in place, the balance is fine.
• If it starts to fall or rise quickly, it’s likely out of balance.
• If it slams down or is too heavy to lift at all, stop and call a technician.

What Causes Balance Issues?

Most balance problems come from aging springs or cables. These parts handle a lot of tension and can wear down over time—especially with frequent use or seasonal weather changes like those we get in Lincoln.

When to Call a Pro

If your door is out of balance, don’t try to adjust the springs or cables yourself—they’re under high tension and can be dangerous without the right tools and training.

Instead, schedule a service call. A pro can safely rebalance the system, adjust spring tension, and spot any worn parts before they break.

Final Thoughts

A simple balance check a couple of times a year can make a huge difference in how long your garage door lasts—and how safe it is to use.

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