Garage Door Torsion Spring

A garage door torsion spring is responsible for helping the door open and close smoothly. This spring works with other parts to balance the weight of the door. If your garage door is not functioning correctly, one of the most likely culprits could be the torsion spring. 

What is a Torsion Spring?

A garage door torsion spring is a tightly wound coil of metal that is placed above the door, typically mounted on a steel shaft. It lifts the heavy weight of the garage door by storing and releasing energy. When the garage door is closed, the torsion spring is wound tightly. As the door opens, the spring unwinds, counterbalancing the door’s weight and making it easier for the motor or manual effort to lift the door.

Unlike extension springs, torsion springs are known for their ability to handle higher amounts of weight and tension, making them ideal for heavy-duty garage doors. They are designed to last for many cycles of opening and closing, but over time, they may wear out or break, requiring replacement.

 

Function of Torsion Springs in Garage Doors

Garage door torsion springs provide the necessary counterbalance to the weight of the door. This counterbalance makes it possible for the door to open and close smoothly with minimal effort. The torsion spring system works by using the tension stored in the spring to lift and lower the door.

When the garage door is in the closed position, the torsion spring is under tension, creating stored energy. As the door opener is activated or the door is manually raised, the spring unwinds, and the stored energy is released, helping to lift the door. When the door is closing, the torsion spring winds back up, providing the force needed to lower the door gently and evenly.

Proper balance is essential for a garage door's smooth operation. A door that is not balanced correctly due to an issue with the torsion spring can lead to several problems, including difficulty opening or closing the door, increased wear on the opener, or even the door coming off its tracks.

Types of Torsion Springs

There are several types of torsion springs used in garage doors, with the main variations being based on size, material, and design. Understanding the different types can help you determine which spring is right for your specific garage door system.

1. Standard Torsion Springs 
   These are the most common type of torsion springs used in residential garage doors. They are typically made from high-tensile steel and are mounted above the door opening. Standard torsion springs come in various sizes, depending on the door’s weight and dimensions.
2. TorqueMaster Torsion Springs 
   These springs are a more specialized version, designed for added safety. TorqueMaster springs are contained within a steel tube and are mounted above the door in a way that minimizes the risk of injury. This design is particularly popular for residential systems where safety is a top concern.
3. EZ-Set Torsion Springs 
   EZ-Set springs are designed for ease of installation. These springs come with pre-wound tension, which reduces the effort required to install them. However, these systems are typically used on lighter garage doors and are not suitable for heavier models.
4. Commercial Torsion Springs 
   These springs are used in industrial or commercial garage doors. They are designed to handle heavier doors and more frequent usage, requiring stronger materials and designs.

How to Balance a Garage Door

Balancing a garage door is important, it allows the torsion spring system to work properly and extends the life of the opener. A balanced door will stay in place when stopped at any point during its travel. Here are the basic steps for checking and balancing your garage door:

1. Disconnect the Opener 
   Before attempting any adjustments, disconnect the garage door opener to avoid injury. This can usually be done by pulling the emergency release cord on the opener rail.
2. Test the Door 
   Manually open and close the door halfway. If the door stays in place, it is likely well-balanced. If the door moves up or down by itself, the torsion springs are either too loose or too tight.
3. Adjust the Springs 
   If the door is out of balance, adjustments to the torsion springs may be necessary. This can be done by tightening or loosening the spring's winding cone. It's important to make these adjustments gradually, as adjusting the tension too much can cause damage to the system.
4. Re-Test the Door 
   After making adjustments, test the door again by manually raising and lowering it. The door should stay in place when stopped halfway. If the door still doesn’t stay in place, further adjustments may be needed, or the springs may need to be replaced.

It’s advisable to seek the help of a professional garage door technician when attempting to balance or replace torsion springs, as this process can be dangerous due to the high tension involved. Having a comprehensive home warranty plan can provide coverage for garage door components, giving you peace of mind and potentially saving you from unexpected repair costs.

FAQs about Garage Door Torsion Springs

1. How long do garage door torsion springs last?

Torsion springs typically last between 7,000 to 15,000 cycles, with one cycle consisting of opening and closing the door. This usually translates to about 5-10 years of use, depending on the frequency of use.

2. What happens if a torsion spring breaks?

If a torsion spring breaks, the door will become much harder to open or will not open at all. It’s important to replace the spring immediately to avoid further damage to the door or opener.

3. Can I replace the torsion spring myself?

Replacing a torsion spring is dangerous due to the amount of tension it holds. It is strongly recommended that a professional technician handle the replacement for safety and proper installation.

4. How can I tell if my torsion spring is worn out?

Signs that your torsion spring may need replacing include difficulty opening the door, the door falling quickly when closing, or the door not staying in the raised position.

5. Can I use an extension spring instead of a torsion spring?

While extension springs are an alternative, torsion springs are typically preferred for heavier garage doors because they offer more balanced support and last longer.