Don’t wait for the power to come back on. Learn how to open a garage door manually
We understand that technology can sometimes let us down, and that includes our trusty garage door openers. So what do you do when your garage door opener decides to take an unscheduled vacation? Don’t worry! You can still get your car in or out by opening the automatic garage door opener manually from the inside or outside, and we’re here to guide you through it.
Related Article: Self-Help Guide: How to Repair Your Garage Doors
Why Would You Need To Open Your Garage Door Manually?
First off, let’s tackle why you might need this knowledge:
- Power Outage: The most common reason people need to open their garage doors manually is because of a power outage.
- Remote Battery Dead: Sometimes, it’s as simple as needing a new battery for your remote.
- Motor Issues: If your garage door opener is on the fritz, the manual option is a handy backup.
Safety First!
Before we dive in, make sure:
- Your garage door is fully closed.
- The garage door opener is unplugged or, if hardwired, the circuit breaker is off.
- You’re wearing appropriate footwear. This isn’t a job for flip-flops!
Alright, ready? Let’s go!
Step-by-Step Guide to Opening Your Garage Door From the Inside and Outside
1. How to Get Your Garage Door Open Manually From the Inside
Step 1: Locate the Manual Release Handle
Most automatic garage doors have a manual or emergency release cord or handle, which is usually a red cord hanging down from the guide track that the opener uses to raise and lower the door. It should have a plastic handle and maybe even say, “Manual Release” or “Emergency Release.” Before starting, make sure the power cord to your garage door is disconnected as a safety precaution.
Step 2: Pull the Handle
Grab the handle of the red rope and pull the emergency release. Pulling the release cord disconnects the garage door opener drive from the door and allows you to move the door manually.
Step 3: Lift the Door
With both hands (and maybe a little elbow grease), lift the garage door. It should lift smoothly with little resistance. If it’s hard to lift, there may be an issue with the springs, and your best bet is to contact a professional for assistance.
Step 4: Secure the Door
If you need the door to stay open, make sure to prop it securely so it doesn’t fall.
2. How to Manually Open Your Garage Door From the Outside
If you’re locked out, the process is slightly different.
Step 1: Locate the Emergency Release Lock
You can find the emergency release lock along the top panel of your garage door. It allows you to disengage the garage door from the outside, which is especially helpful during unforeseen events such as a power outage. When the emergency release lock is activated, it pulls the emergency release cord and allows you to manually open and operate your garage door.
Step 2: Unlock It With a Key and Pull Out the Lock Cylinder
Unlock the mechanism with your key. Then, pull out the lock cylinder to reveal the cable attached to the lock. This will help open a garage door even when there’s no power.
Step 3: Pull the Emergency Release Cord
Afterward, pull the emergency release cord or cable. Doing so activates the emergency cord inside the garage which disengages the door from the opener. You’ll know it worked when you hear a “click” sound.
Step 4: Lift the Door
With the automatic opener disengaged, your garage door can now be opened. Lift the door and check if it glides easily. If you experience any trouble or if it opens unevenly, it may mean the emergency release wasn’t fully engaged. In this case, don’t force it, and take some time to properly engage it before proceeding.
Step 5: Keep the Door Opened or Closed
If you want to keep the door in an open position, prop it open or utilize its built-in latch. However, if you wish to put your overhead door in a closed position, simply pull it down until you have the door closed. Once safely inside, ensure it’s properly closed to protect your belongings.
Pro Tips
- If you have a side lock on your garage door that you use when you’re away for extended periods, make sure to unlock it before trying to lift your door.
- Once the power is back or the issue is fixed, you’ll need to re-engage your garage door opener. Just pull the handle toward the door to reset it. This will automatically reconnect the arm on the garage door opener track. Alternatively, you can press the remote control button to reconnect the door with its track.
Final Notes From Jolly Goat Garage Doors
And there you have it! Now you know how to open a garage door from the inside and outside. However, if you run into issues or feel uncomfortable doing it, our qualified staff will be happy to assist you. Contact us at (405) 648-0618 for efficient solutions to all your garage door needs!
