It’s happened to all of us at some point. We come home from a long day at work, click our garage door remotes expecting to gain access, and the garage door fails to open. When this occurs, it often means your garage door remote not working.
Garage door remote failures can be annoying, but the good news is that most issues can be fixed easily. This article will tell you what to do when your garage remote not working and how to fix the garage door opener remote.
Common Reasons Why Your Garage Door Remote May Stop Working
Dead Batteries
Dead batteries are the most common reason for garage door remotes not working. Batteries typically last about two years. If it’s been two years or more since your batteries were last changed, you may need new ones.
Most remotes require lithium-ion batteries. However, older models may use 9 volts. Determine which batteries your remote requires and switch them out.
Disrupted Signal
If you replaced your batteries and your remote is still not working, you may be dealing with a disrupted signal. Signal disruptions may be caused by an obstruction or a broken antenna, or you may be out of range.
Make sure you are within at least 20 feet of your door before attempting to open it. If you are close enough and the door still won’t open, remove any objects in your way.
The antenna should be pointed toward your door and should be free of debris. If the antenna is broken, you may require a professional repair.
Your Lock Button is On
Your remote will not work if the lock button on your garage door’s control panel is engaged. The lock button will prevent your garage door from moving or responding to controls.
You can disengage the lock by pressing the lock button on the control panel. The remote should signal the door to move up or down. This response will tell you you’ve solved the issue.
You should also press the wall control panel after disengaging the lock to ensure it is still working.
Remote Requires Reprogramming
A broken garage door remote may be linked to programming issues. Your remote can become deprogrammed with regular use or if it gets knocked around.
Here is a guide for reprogramming your remote:
- Locate the Learn button on your control panel and press it for 30 seconds.
- Find the Learn button on your remote control and hold it for three seconds. You should see the light on your remote flash.
- Try the remote to ensure your door opens.
Door Wiring Issues
A garage remote not working could be caused by an issue in your door’s wiring. A power surge can cause a malfunction. If this is the case, you must call in a professional to look at the door’s wiring.
A professional will look at your opener and inspect your wiring. They will disconnect and reconnect the wires on your control panel and motor and clear the memory. They will reprogram the remote and ensure everything is in working order.
Blocked or Damaged Photo Eyes
Photo eyes are sensors that ensure your garage door stops moving if anything comes into its path while it’s closing. If the photo eyes are blocked or misaligned, it could interfere with your remote’s functionality. The issue will also affect the garage door’s auto-reverse features.
Inspect your safety eyes to ensure they are not obstructed. Adjust them to improve their alignment. Check the wiring for signs of damage.
If your photo eyes are still not working, you may need to contact a professional.
I Can’t Figure It Out. Can Raynor Door Authority Help?
If you have tried everything and are still wondering how to fix your garage door opener remote, Raynor Door Authority can help. Raynor Door Authority provides garage door repair, installation, parts, and service. We will get your remote back to full functionality and address any related issues.
Contact us for garage door service you can trust.