1. The Garage Door Won’t Open or Close

This is one of the most frequent homeowner complaints, especially during cold Ottawa winters when mechanical parts stiffen, and electronics respond slowly.

Possible Causes

• Dead remote or keypad batteries
• Blocked sensors
• Power outage or tripped breaker
• Disconnected opener

DIY Fix

Start by replacing batteries and checking the outlet powering your opener. Ensure nothing is blocking the sensors and that both LEDs are glowing steadily. If the door still doesn’t move, it’s best to call a professional to check wiring or motor issues.

2. The Garage Door Reverses Immediately After Closing

If your door closes halfway and then suddenly pops back up, the issue is typically with the safety sensors or the opener’s close-force settings.

Possible Causes

• Misaligned photo-eye sensors
• Dirty sensor lenses
• Incorrect force or limit settings

DIY Fix

Wipe the sensors with a soft cloth and adjust them so both LED lights align. If this doesn’t work, the force settings likely need expert adjustment to prevent damage to the door or opener.

3. The Opener Makes Noise, but the Door Doesn’t Move

Hearing the motor run while the door stays still is a strong sign of mechanical failure.

Possible Causes

• Broken trolley or carriage
• Stripped gear
• Disconnected the opener from the door

DIY Fix

Check the emergency release cord to ensure it hasn’t been pulled. If the motor is running but the chain/belt isn’t moving, internal gears may be damaged—this requires a professional repair.

4. The Garage Door Opens or Closes Randomly

This can be alarming and is often tied to electrical or signal problems.

Possible Causes

• Signal interference
• Faulty wiring
• Neighbour’s remote on the same frequency (rare but possible)
• Stuck wall button

DIY Fix

Check the wall button for sticking and replace the remote batteries. If the issue continues, an Ottawa technician should inspect your opener for electrical faults or outdated frequency settings.

5. Grinding, Screeching, or Rattling Noises

Loud operation is more than an annoyance—it can indicate loose hardware or failing components.

Possible Causes

• Loose chain or belt
• Worn gears
• Roller or hinge damage

DIY Fix

Tighten any visible bolts and lubricate the chain or screw-drive rail. Avoid over-tightening, which can cause additional wear. If the noise persists, the opener’s internal mechanical assembly may need servicing.

6. The Remote or Keypad Isn’t Responding

Cold weather can affect battery performance in Ottawa, and signal issues are common.

Possible Causes

• Dead batteries
• Out-of-range remote
• Broken antenna
• Lost programming

DIY Fix

Replace the batteries and try reprogramming your remote. Ensure the antenna hanging from the opener is intact and pointing downward. If reprogramming doesn’t work, the remote or receiver may be failing.

7. The Door Moves Slowly or Struggles to Lift

If your opener sounds strained or the door moves sluggishly, the issue may not be the opener at all.

Possible Causes

• Aging garage door springs
• Lack of lubrication
• Worn rollers

DIY Fix

Homeowners should never adjust springs and cables due to the extreme tension involved. Lubricate rollers and hinges, and test the door balance by lifting it halfway. If it doesn’t stay in place, your springs need to be replaced professionally.

8. The Opener Light Isn’t Turning On

This seems minor, but it can indicate deeper wiring or safety issues.

Possible Causes

• Burnt-out light bulb
• Faulty socket
• Internal circuitry problems

DIY Fix

Replace the bulb with an opener-approved LED or halogen option. If it still won’t turn on, an electrician or technician should inspect the wiring.