A garage door operates through a combination of mechanical and electrical components. Here's a general overview of how a typical garage door works:
Tracks and Rollers: The garage door is mounted on a set of tracks on either side of the opening. Rollers attached to the sides of the door allow it to move smoothly along the tracks.
Springs: There are two main types of springs used in garage doors: torsion springs and extension springs. Torsion springs are mounted above the door and store energy when the door is closed. Extension springs are typically placed along the horizontal tracks on both sides of the door. The springs counterbalance the weight of the door, making it easier to open and close.
Opener: A garage door opener is an electric motorized device that assists in opening and closing the door. It is typically mounted on the ceiling of the garage. The opener is connected to the door through a drive system, which can be a belt, chain, or screw mechanism.
Sensors and Safety Features: To ensure safe operation, garage doors are equipped with sensors. These sensors are located near the bottom of the door tracks and detect any obstructions in the path of the door. If an object or person is detected, the sensors send a signal to the opener to stop or reverse the door's movement.
Controls and Remote: Garage doors can be operated using various controls. Wall-mounted buttons are usually installed near the garage entrance, allowing manual control of the door. Additionally, most garage door openers come with remote controls that enable you to operate the door from inside your vehicle.
When you press the button on the wall control or remote, the opener motor is activated. The motor then drives the drive system, which pulls or pushes the door along the tracks, either opening or closing it. The springs assist in counterbalancing the weight of the door, making it easier for the opener to operate.
It's important to note that while this overview provides a general understanding of how garage doors work, the specific mechanisms and components may vary depending on the type and model of the garage door system. It's recommended to refer to the manufacturer's instructions or consult a professional for a more detailed understanding of your specific garage door setup.