The springs on your garage door do most of the lifting. The opener just guides the door. There are two main types, and knowing which one you have helps when you call for a repair.
Torsion springs
Torsion springs sit on a metal bar above the door. They twist to store energy and turn drums that wind up the lift cables. Most newer homes in Ankeny have torsion springs.
- Smoother, more balanced lift
- Longer life on average
- Required for most wall-mount openers
Extension springs
Extension springs run along the horizontal tracks on each side of the door. They stretch as the door closes. They are common on older homes and detached garages.
- Lower part cost
- Need safety cables run through them
- Can wear unevenly from side to side
How long springs last
Standard springs are rated for about 10,000 cycles. One cycle is one open and one close. At four cycles a day, that is about seven years. High-cycle springs last longer on busy doors.
Why this is not a DIY job
Both spring types hold a lot of stored energy. Winding bars slip and springs can snap. Most injuries from garage doors come from spring work.
If your door feels heavy or a spring is broken, book a garage door spring replacement. If a cable also came loose, see cable repair.