Garage door openers work frequently. The garage door is one of the most frequently used in some homes and buildings. That means the opener is always on the move. That is why the torsion spring wears and needs replacement long before the door does. This post will explain five signs showing the torsion springs is due for a replacement.

Opening the door is a struggle 

One of the most common symptoms of worn-out torsion is that the door becomes hard to open every time. It becomes heavier, and no longer opens smoothly like it used to. Sometimes it feels too heavy; it’s impossible to open. The springs may have snapped.

Makes a creaking sound 

You hear the door straining to open. It makes a creaking noise, which may indicate that the spring is about to break. This is another sign of wear.

Inability to stay in place

When you open or close the door, it does not stay in place. Sometimes, it slams shut without warning. This can be very dangerous if the door suddenly closes with someone on the way. It indicates a worn-out torsion spring.

Physical damage

If you suspect a problem with the torsion spring, you can check to determine if it is worn or damaged. If you find a crack, you need to replace the spring. It will make opening and closing the door difficult. And it could cause injury and accidents.

How long do torsion springs last?

The torsion spring’s lifespan depends on usage. Some homeowners use their garages for up to 10 years without changing the springs. But others have to replace it within 5 to 7 years. It will depend on how often you open and close the garage door. The springs work when opening and closing the door. Therefore, the more you use the garage door, the sooner it’ll wear and need replacement. The standard lifespan for a torsion spring is 10,000 cycles. For most homes with mostly used garage doors, this translates between 5 to 7 years. 

Factors that speed up torsion springs wear

In some cases, the torsion springs can need replacement after four years. The garage door itself can determine how long the torsion springs last. Some doors are heavier than others. The heavier the door, the more pressure on the springs. For such doors, you may start to see signs of wear after four years of frequent use. 

Some springs are also too big or too small for the door. A door that feels too heavy or slides up too quickly is a sign of inadequate spring size. Therefore, replace them with a different size when changing the springs. 

If you suspect something wrong with your garage door torsion springs, it is important to contact a professional. They will inspect the springs and offer professional advice and recommendations. Attempting a DIY could get dangerous. Only a trained person with the right tools should check the door and fix the new spring if necessary.