Power outages can happen at the most inconvenient times, leaving you stuck outside (or inside) your garage. Fortunately, most garage doors are designed with a manual release function to help you open them safely and easily during a power outage. At Nova Garage Doors, we’re here to guide you through the process and keep your garage accessible, no matter the circumstances.
Step-by-Step Guide to Manually Opening Your Garage Door
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Locate the Emergency Release Cord
Find the red cord hanging from your garage door opener rail—this is the emergency release cord. It disengages the door from the automatic opener, allowing you to operate it manually. Make sure the door is fully closed before pulling it to prevent it from falling unexpectedly. -
Pull the Emergency Release Cord
Firmly pull the cord down. This disconnects the garage door from the opener’s trolley system, allowing the door to move freely. -
Manually Lift the Garage Door
Once the emergency release is activated, carefully lift the garage door using the handle or bottom edge. Be sure to lift with steady pressure and keep the door balanced to avoid injury. -
Secure the Door
If you need to keep the door open, use a clamp or block to prevent it from sliding back down. Never leave the door unsecured, as it can fall and cause damage or injury. -
Reconnect the Door
After the power is restored, reconnect the garage door to the opener by pulling the release cord toward the motor and manually sliding the door along the track until it locks back into place. Then, test the opener to ensure everything is working correctly.
Safety Tips to Keep in Mind
- Test the Emergency Release Regularly: Familiarize yourself with the emergency release cord before an outage occurs, so you’ll be ready when needed.
- Watch for Obstructions: Ensure there are no objects or debris blocking the door’s path when opening it manually.
- Seek Professional Help: If the door feels heavy, uneven, or difficult to lift, the springs or hardware may need repair. Contact a professional like Nova Garage Doors to inspect and address the issue.
Upgrade Your System for Better Convenience
Frequent power outages? Consider upgrading to a garage door opener with a battery backup. These systems automatically switch to battery power during an outage, allowing you to operate your garage door as usual. Learn more about battery backup garage door openers and how they can make power outages less stressful.
Trust Nova Garage Doors for Your Garage Door Needs
Whether you’re dealing with a power outage or need maintenance for your garage door system, Nova Garage Doors is here to help. From expert repairs to system upgrades, we provide reliable, hassle-free solutions to keep your garage doors functioning smoothly. Contact us today for service or advice on upgrading your garage door system.
Don’t let a power outage lock you out! With a little preparation and the right equipment, you can stay in control of your garage no matter what. Reach out to Nova Garage Doors for more tips and professional support to keep your doors ready for any situation.
