We’ve all left the house for an errand in a hurry and arrived back home hours later to find the garage door was wide open the whole time. Other times, homeowners might intentionally leave the garage open during yard work or a family gathering.
There’s no harm in this, right? Beyond security risks, you might be surprised to learn that there’s more that happens to the opener when you leave your garage open. This action could impair the garage door opener system. Learn why it’s best to keep the garage door closed and the impact of this habit.
Frequent Outdoor Exposure Causes Long-Term Strain
When a garage door is open for extended periods, the garage door opener—the motorized unit mounted above the door—is in a state of limbo. It’s not off or resting; depending on the system, the system could hold electrical tension or low-grade mechanical strain.
In climates with variable temperatures, such as Ames, Iowa, garage opener components may expand or contract due to changes in weather. This puts stress on the internal mechanics of the opener. Over time, the state of being open for extended periods can prematurely wear out gears, belts, or chains.
The Sensors Can Malfunction
Garage door openers rely on carefully calibrated sensors and limit switches to operate effectively. When the door is open for too long, the opener can misread its position or fail to reset properly. The next time you press the button, the door might not close, or it will attempt to open when it’s already up.
Uninvited Guests, Power Surges, and More
Leaving the door open doesn’t just put your belongings at risk; it also exposes the inside of the opener unit. Rodents or insects may find a warm, dry place to reside inside the casing, particularly if the system is old or poorly sealed.
If a sudden storm or power surge occurs while the system is live, the opener’s logic board could fry. This is an issue that demands a garage opener repair service.
Beyond that, an open garage can be a green light for opportunistic thieves. With items like tools, cars, and bikes visible, anyone could access and steal your belongings. Even worse, thieves might try to open the door and enter your home.
Give Your Garage Opener a Break
So, what happens to the opener if you leave your garage open for extended periods? The answer is more than you would expect. Long-term exposure to the elements, system errors, and mechanical stress all impact the opener’s performance and longevity.
Luckily, this issue is an easy fix. Keep the door closed when it’s not in use. If you notice any trouble, contact The Door & Fence Store in Ames, IA. Whether you need garage door opener repair, a brand-new installation, or guidance when selecting a system for your home, our expert team can help.
