How to Open a Garage Door With a Broken Spring?

How to Open a Garage Door With a Broken Spring?

A broken spring is one of the most common—and most inconvenient—garage door issues. If you find yourself with a door that won't open and suspect the spring has snapped, you need to proceed with extreme caution. Here's how to approach the situation safely.

What Happens When a Spring Breaks?

Garage doors rely on torsion or extension springs to counterbalance their weight. Without a functioning spring, the door becomes extremely heavy, and attempting to open it manually or with the opener can be dangerous or damaging.

Step-by-Step Guide to Manual Opening

1. Disconnect the Opener: Pull the emergency release cord to disengage the opener.
2. Use Help: Never attempt to lift the door alone—it may weigh 150+ pounds.
3. Lift Slowly: With two people, lift the door evenly and slowly to avoid binding or jerking.
4. Secure the Door: If you must leave it open, use vice grips or a locking clamp to hold it in place on the track.

Can You Use the Opener?

No. Using the opener with a broken spring risks burning out the motor and damaging the mechanism. Always disconnect the opener until repairs are made.

Call a Professional

Replacing a spring is a job for trained professionals. The springs are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury if mishandled. Contact us for same-day service and a on-site quote.

Conclusion

Never attempt to force a garage door with a broken spring. If you must open it, do so carefully with assistance. And most importantly, get professional help immediately to restore safe and reliable operation.