The most common mistake is undermining the spring functionality in the garage overhead door, since all automated garage doors includes a motor opener.
What is the purpose of the spring?
It might come as a surprise to some of you, but a closer look at your overhead system reveals a relatively small HP capability on your motor.
Due to the spring tension and relaxing properties, most of the garage door weight is relayed on the spring.
Balance and correct installation will reduce the motor stress to minimum and allow the door to slide up or down on the track effortlessly.
There are two kinds of springs used in garage doors:
1. Torsion springs
Torsion springs are the ones which are mounted on a rod above the garage entrance. Those springs are installed tightly and under tremendous pressure and stress. Due to their high tension, they are the most common parts in the door to go wrong when overused or wrongfully installed.
Torsion springs installation is considered harmful and can cause serious injuries if not properly installed! Do not attempt to Perform installation unless you are absolutely sure of what you are doing!
2.Extension springs
Extension springs are the ones that are installed on either side of the door track or centered mounted depending on the design or brand of your garage door.
As their name suggests, their functionality is expanding and contracting the spring tension is the power that holds the door weight and supports the engine operation.
Extension springs installation is considered less dangerous than Torsion springs, although when wrongly installed, they as well can cause serious injury and or damage your overhead door system.
Installing and working with springs on high tension requires experience and it is recommended to use or consult an expert for the installation or repair!