What is a Garage Door Emergency Cord?
Most days, your garage door opener functions smoothly, and you never think twice about what would happen if power were suddenly lost or your system malfunctioned. If your garage door opener malfunctions, you may need to use the release to open and close your garage door. Additionally, if the power is out and you need to leave for work or an event, you’ll need to use the emergency cord to get your car out of the garage.
A garage release cord is a safety feature that disengages your opener from your door, turning your garage door back into a manual one. You may have noticed the cord with the red handle dangling from your door but never had an occasion to use the release. The feature is actually quite easy to use and re-engage once the issue has been resolved.
How to Use the Emergency Cord on a Garage Door
Some people might be a little afraid of a manual garage door because they are so used to a machine doing the lifting. Using the red release lever is quite easy, though, and quality garage doors slide easily up and down.
Start with your door in a down position. Never disengage the door when it is in the up position — if the spring is broken, the door may fall suddenly and create a dangerous situation or cause damage to your door.
Pull the garage door’s red release cord. The trolley, which attaches to the opener mechanism will disengage from the automatic opener. This turns your door back into a manual one. You can now open and close the door. Keep in mind that functions such as the sensors that stop the door when something is in its path will not work during this time, so take the necessary precautions to avoid injury.
How to Reattach the Garage Door Emergency Pull
Once the power is restored or you’ve determined you need to repair or replace your garage door opener, you may wonder how to re-engage the garage door opener.
Again, start with the garage door in the down position. If your unit is newer, it may have an automatic reconnect feature that initiates when you hit the open button on your remote. If your garage door opener doesn’t have this ability, you’ll need to reconnect the trolley to the opener.
Pull the cord down and toward the door. This will typically reconnect the lever. You may even hear it click into place. You can tell by the spring whether the door is connected or not. When it’s disconnected, the spring is extended. When it’s engaged the spring is compressed.
Be sure not to pull on the cord too hard. If it isn’t reattaching, there may be another issue that needs addressing. Tugging too forcefully can cause damage. Test the opener by hitting the button to send your garage door open. If it works without issue, everything is reattached correctly.
When to Call for Help
If your garage door is stuck in the open position, call for help. Never use the emergency release in this position as it can cause harm to yourself, others and the door itself. If you are unable to open your door, there may be other issues that require the help of a professional to repair or replace broken parts. For service in Northern Idaho or the greater Spokane, WA area, contact Continental Door’s 24/7 emergency service.
