Here are the key points for the daily maintenance of garage door springs

Here are the key points for the daily maintenance of garage door springs (Maintenance Tips for Garage Door Springs), which can help extend their service life and ensure safety:
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1. Monthly Inspection
- Visual Inspection:
- Rust or Cracks: Check the surface of the spring for rust spots, wear, or fine cracks (especially at the hooks at both ends).
- Oil Residue: If black oil stains are found, it may indicate insufficient internal lubrication causing metal friction.
- Function Test:
Manually open and close the garage door to observe if the spring extends and retracts smoothly and listen for any abnormal noises (such as creaking or metal clashing sounds).
2. Lubrication
- Recommended Products:
Use specialized garage door spring lubricants (such as WD-40 Specialist Silicone Lubricant or Liquid Wrench Garage Door Lube).
- Operation Steps:
1. Clean the surface of the spring of dust (with a dry cloth).
2. Spray the lubricant into the gaps of the spring and the bearings at both ends (avoid over-application to prevent dust accumulation).
3. Lubricate at least twice a year (increase to once every quarter in damp or high-use areas).
3. Balance Test
- Method:
1. Manually lift the garage door to a height of 1 meter and then release it.
2. If the door cannot remain stationary or falls rapidly, it indicates insufficient spring tension and professional adjustment is required.
4. Cleaning & Rust Prevention
- In Humid Environments:
Regularly wipe the springs with a dry cloth. In damp areas, spray a rust inhibitor (such as CRC Heavy Duty Corrosion Inhibitor).
- Avoid Chemical Corrosion:
Keep away from contact with chemicals such as bleach and de-icing salts.
5. Safety Precautions
- Do Not DIY Disassembly:
The spring is under high pressure. Non-professional operation may cause serious injury.
- Replacement Cycle:
The lifespan of a common steel spring is approximately 10,000 open-close cycles (about 7-10 years). Even if there is no damage, it is recommended to replace it upon expiration.
6. Professional Service
- A comprehensive inspection (including spring tension calibration, track alignment, etc.) is arranged once a year, with a cost of approximately $50 – $100.

Warning:
If a broken or severely deformed spring is found, immediately stop using the garage door and contact a certified technician (such as IDEA certified) for repair. Spring failure may cause the door to fall rapidly, leading to an accident.
Through the above maintenance, the risk of sudden failures can be significantly reduced and long-term maintenance costs can be saved!