How to Manually Open and Close Your Garage Door During a Power Outage

When a storm strikes and the power goes out, essential tasks like opening and closing your garage door may suddenly become a challenge. Fortunately, most garage doors are equipped with a manual override system, allowing you to safely operate them without power. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure you can access your garage during a power outage, especially if you’re dealing with inclement weather.

Step 1: Ensure Safety First

Before you begin, make sure the garage door is completely closed. If the door is partially open, there’s a risk it may slam shut when you disengage the automatic opener. If you need to open it while it’s stuck halfway, be extremely cautious.

Also, keep an eye on your surroundings. Stormy weather can cause hazards like fallen debris or flooding, which could make manual operation more dangerous.

Step 2: Locate the Emergency Release Cord

Most garage doors have an emergency release cord, typically a red handle that hangs from the track of the garage door opener. This cord is usually located near the center of the garage, hanging down from the trolley (the piece that moves along the track when the door is opening and closing).

Step 3: Pull the Emergency Release Cord

Firmly grasp the red emergency release handle and pull it down. This disengages the door from the automatic opener, allowing you to operate the door manually.

Tip: Be sure to pull straight down—this will unhook the door from the opener's mechanism but leave the door on its tracks.

Step 4: Manually Lift the Garage Door

With the automatic opener disengaged, you can now lift the garage door manually. Stand in front of the door, grip it at the bottom, and carefully lift it. Garage doors are heavy, but the springs should make it easier to lift. Be cautious—if the springs are damaged, the door may be very difficult or unsafe to operate.

Step 5: Secure the Door in the Open Position (If Necessary)

If you need to keep the garage door open, it may not stay in place on its own. Use a pair of C-clamps or vice grips to lock the door’s track just below the roller, preventing it from sliding down.

Step 6: Close the Garage Door Manually

To close the door, carefully lower it by gripping the bottom panel and gently pulling it down until it is fully closed. Make sure your fingers are clear of the door’s path to avoid injury.

Step 7: Reconnect the Garage Door Opener

Once the power is restored, you’ll want to reconnect the door to the automatic opener. To do this, manually open your garage door halfway and pull the red emergency release cord again, but this time, do so at an upward angle. Once reconnected, you can test the automatic function by pressing your garage door opener button.

Step 8: Schedule a Garage Door Maintenance Check

After a power outage, especially one caused by severe weather, it’s a good idea to have your garage door system checked for any wear or damage. Storms can impact the components of your door, including springs, tracks, and the opener itself. If you notice any issues, contact DGD Garage Doors for a professional inspection and service to ensure your door operates safely and smoothly.

Stay Prepared with DGD Garage Doors

At DGD Garage Doors, we’re committed to keeping your garage doors functioning during all weather conditions. Whether you need a repair after a storm or just want to be ready for the next power outage, we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule a service or learn more about how to maintain your garage door during inclement weather.

Stay safe and prepared—trust DGD Garage Doors for all your garage door needs!

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