Learn how to change garage door springs safely with expert tips to avoid injury and complete the task correctly.
Garage door springs play a critical role in lifting and lowering the full weight of your garage door, operating under intense tension to ensure smooth performance. When these components wear out or break, it can lead to serious safety hazards and operational issues. If you’re researching how to change garage door springs, it’s essential to understand the risks involved, as incorrect handling can result in injury or further damage.
While some DIY-savvy homeowners may attempt a spring replacement themselves, it’s often best to leave this complex task to professionals. Knowing when to call an expert can save time, reduce risk, and ensure long-term reliability. For those seeking dependable service, Ascension Garage Door Service offers expert inspections and repairs tailored to your door’s specific setup. Their team provides efficient, safe solutions that restore full functionality and peace of mind.
Understanding the Role of Garage Door Springs
Garage door springs are essential for smooth door movement. There are two main types:
Torsion Springs
Torsion springs sit above the garage door and use torque to lift it smoothly and evenly. They’re ideal for heavier doors and provide better balance and durability over time.
Extension Springs
Extension springs are mounted along the sides of the garage door. They expand and contract to create lifting power, and they are commonly used in lighter doors with limited garage headroom.
Each spring type has specific uses depending on the door’s weight and design. Regardless of type, springs carry the heavy load of the garage door, typically over 150 pounds. When springs wear out or break, they can make the door inoperable, unbalanced, or unsafe.
Signs Your Garage Door Springs Need Replacement
Are your springs the issue? Look for these common signs:
Uneven Movement
If one side of your garage door rises faster or slower than the other, it could signal a worn or broken spring, which can cause imbalanced tension and unsafe operation.
Loud Noises
Snapping or grinding sounds usually point to spring tension issues when the door moves. These noises indicate stress on the system and may require immediate attention to prevent further damage.
Door Won’t Open or Slams Shut
A broken spring can cause your garage door to stay closed or fall too quickly. This creates a serious safety risk and typically requires professional repair.
Is It Safe to Change Garage Door Springs Yourself?
Replacing springs isn’t just another DIY project. Springs are under high tension, and mishandling them can result in serious injury or property damage. Homeowners without proper training risk:
- Cuts, bruises, or worse from recoiling springs
- The garage door collapses from improper balancing
- Liability issues if injury or damage occurs
Ascension Garage Door Service strongly recommends professional spring replacement unless you’re fully confident, equipped, and experienced. Their licensed technicians follow strict safety protocols and offer warranties that most DIY jobs can’t match.
Tools You’ll Need for Spring Replacement
If you’re set on learning how to change garage door springs safely, start by gathering these tools:
- Heavy-duty gloves and safety goggles
- Winding bars (never use screwdrivers)
- Vice grips or clamps to secure the door
- Socket set and wrenches
- The correct replacement springs, matched precisely to your door specs
Measuring and Ordering the Right Springs
Before replacing any spring, it’s critical to identify the exact type and size:
- Measure the inside diameter, coil length, and wire size
- Identify whether the spring is left-wound or right-wound
Incorrect spring sizing can cause imbalance, premature wear, or operational failure. To avoid guesswork, many homeowners turn to Ascension Garage Door Service for help sourcing accurate, manufacturer-approved springs.
Step-by-Step: How to Change Garage Door Springs (Torsion)
Step 1: Disconnect and Secure
Unplug the garage door opener to cut power. Clap the door to prevent movement, and lock the torsion shaft using vise grips to ensure complete safety.
Step 2: Loosen Set Screws
Carefully insert winding bars into the spring cone. Loosen the set screws and slowly unwind the old springs one-quarter turn at a time, keeping control to prevent sudden release.
Step 3: Remove Old Springs
Once all tension is released, detach the springs from the center bracket. Before proceeding, slide them off the torsion bar and inspect the shaft for damage or wear.
Step 4: Install New Springs
Slide the new springs onto the torsion bar, ensuring they’re oriented correctly. Anchor them securely, then wind to the proper tension based on your garage door’s weight and height.
Step 5: Reconnect and Test
Secure the set screws, release the clamps, and reconnect the opener. Then, test the door’s balance and smoothness.
Safety Tips During Replacement
- Always use two winding bars
- Never work alone
- Move slowly and double-check each step
Step-by-Step: How to Change Extension Springs
Step 1: Open and Clamp the Door
Fully open the garage door and clamp it securely to the track to prevent movement. This keeps the door stable and safe while you work on the spring system.
Step 2: Disconnect Safety Cables
Loosen and remove the safety cables connected to the old spring. Be cautious during this step, as stored tension can cause sudden movement if not handled properly and securely.
Step 3: Replace the Spring
Install the new spring, matching the original in both length and tension. Ensure it’s centered and tightly secured to maintain the door’s balance and smooth performance.
Step 4: Reconnect Cables and Brackets
Reattach the safety cables and brackets to their original positions. Double-check connections to ensure nothing is loose or misaligned before the final testing phase.
Step 5: Test the Operation
Slowly lower and raise the door by hand. Confirm the motion is smooth, the door stays in place when lifted halfway, and the spring maintains proper tension.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even well-meaning DIYers can make costly mistakes when changing garage door springs. These include:
- Using the wrong spring size or type
- Skipping safety checks
- Forgetting to test the door balance
Ascension Garage Door Service prevents these common errors by providing trained experts, high-quality parts, and thorough safety inspections.
When to Call a Professional Instead
Spring replacement isn’t for everyone. Call a professional if:
- Your door is extra heavy or has dual springs
- You spot rusted components or broken cables
- You lack the proper tools or training
Ascension Garage Door Service offers affordable, same-day spring replacements, backed by full warranty protection and expert installation.
FAQs: How to Change Garage Door Springs
How do I know if my garage door springs need replacing?
If your garage door is heavy to lift, opens unevenly, or closes too quickly, the springs may be worn out. Other signs include visible gaps in the spring, loud snapping noises, or the door not staying open. Replacing worn springs is essential for safety and proper door function.
Which direction does the wind garage door spring?
Torsion springs must be wound in the correct direction—typically upward and toward the center for proper tension. Right-wound springs go on the left side of the center bracket, and left-wound springs go on the right. Winding in the wrong direction can cause operational failure and safety risks.
Is it safe to replace garage door springs?
Replacing garage door springs can be dangerous due to their high stored tension. If not handled correctly, DIY replacement may result in injury. It’s recommended to consult a professional with the right tools and expertise to ensure the job is done safely and effectively.
How many years do garage door springs last?
Garage door springs generally last 7 to 12 years, depending on usage. Most are rated for around 10,000 cycles, each cycle consisting of one open and one close. However, high-use doors or a lack of maintenance can shorten their lifespan. Regular inspections help prevent unexpected spring failure and costly repairs.
Should I replace both garage door springs at the same time?
Yes, it’s best to replace both garage door springs simultaneously. Even if one appears functional, both springs likely have the same wear. Replacing both ensures balanced operation, reduces strain on the opener, and prevents future breakdowns, saving time and additional service costs.
Final Thoughts: Leave Spring Replacement to the Experts at Ascension Garage Door Service
Learning to change garage door springs may sound straightforward, but it often involves complex tension adjustments and real safety risks. If done incorrectly, it can lead to injury or long-term damage to your garage door system. That’s why homeowners searching for guidance on changing garage door springs are better off trusting trained professionals.
Ascension Garage Door Service offers reliable, same-day garage spring replacement you can count on. With years of hands-on experience, industry-grade tools, and a customer-first approach, their expert technicians ensure your garage door works safely and efficiently. Skip the guesswork, contact Ascension Garage Door Service today for expert support and lasting results that protect your home.
End Note
Ascension Garage Door Service delivers trusted solutions for homeowners and businesses across Colorado Springs. Whether you need urgent garage door repairs, commercial support, or a smart LiftMaster upgrade, our team is prepared to help. Visit our About Us page to see what makes our company a reliable partner in every project.You can also explore our range of garage door styles and professional gate installation services, tailored to match your property’s needs. Visit ascensiongaragedoorservice.com to explore all of our residential and commercial offerings. If you’re ready to speak with a technician or schedule service, contact us and get the support you need today.
Ascension Garage Door Service
2175 N Academy Blvd Ste 200-5, Colorado Springs, CO 80909, United States
+17196393608