When it comes to garage door repair, one of the most critical components that often goes unnoticed is the torsion spring. Though small in size, this tightly wound coil is responsible for lifting and lowering the heavy garage door with ease. When it fails, the entire system can become unsafe or unusable. Understanding the role of torsion springs is essential for homeowners looking to maintain a fully functional and safe garage door system.
What Are Torsion Springs and How Do They Work?
Torsion springs are mounted horizontally above the garage door opening. When the door is closed, these springs are under high tension, storing mechanical energy. As the door opens, the springs unwind, helping to lift the weight of the door. This mechanism significantly reduces the effort required by the opener or manual lift.
A typical garage door can weigh between 150 to 300 pounds or more, depending on its size and materials. Without the help of torsion springs, the opener motor—or a person—would struggle to move the door at all. That’s why these springs are essential to the entire operation.
Why Torsion Spring Failure Is a Major Concern
Torsion springs have a limited lifespan, usually rated for about 10,000 to 20,000 cycles (one cycle is a full open and close). Over time, the metal fatigues, and the spring can break—often with a loud snap. When this happens, the door may become very heavy, uneven, or completely stuck.
Attempting to use a garage door with a broken torsion spring is not only ineffective but also dangerous. The added strain can burn out the opener or cause cables to snap. For this reason, professionals strongly advise against DIY spring repairs due to the risk of injury from the high-tension components.
How to Prevent Problems and Ensure Safety
To extend the life of torsion springs and minimize future garage door repair costs, regular maintenance is key. Lubricate the springs twice a year, schedule routine inspections, and be alert to signs like jerky movement, unusual noises, or a door that feels heavier than usual.
In conclusion, torsion springs are a cornerstone of any garage door system. Their condition directly affects performance, safety, and repair costs. For safe and effective service, always trust experienced technicians to handle any issues involving torsion springs during your next garage door repair.