frequently asked questions
The Garage Door Details
Here is a list of some common questions we get from our customers. Click on a question card below to learn more.
Garage Door Opener FAQs
- Locate the "Learn" button on the back of the motor unit, or on the inside wall control. The "Learn" button on the motor unit will usually be purple, red-orange, green, or yellow. On wall-mounted jackshaft openers, lift up the access door on the motor to find the "Learn" button. NOTE: Most newer operators after 2012 have a "Learn" button on the inside wall control, may be under the flip-up cover. On LCD wall control models, you have to go in the Menu features to find the "program remote" feature.
- Press the "Learn" button momentarily. If the "Learn" button is on the wall control, you will have to press this "Learn" button TWICE. When the unit is in "Learn" mode, the small LED light next to the button will be solidly lit.
- Within 30 seconds, press and hold the remote button for a couple seconds. This will program that button into that motor. The next push of the remote button will operate the door.
- Repeat the steps above for any additional remotes for that door.
- If the remote has multiple buttons, the other buttons can be programmed to other door motors using the same procedure.
- Follow Steps #1 and #2 above.
- Within 30 seconds, press a 4-digit number into the keypad and then immediately press and hold the "Enter" button for a couple seconds. This programs the new 4-digit code to that motor and erases any previously programmed code for that door.
- A different 4-digit code can be used to program other door motors by following the same procedure. One keypad can operate multiple doors.
- Press and hold the "Learn" button for about 8 seconds until the LED light next to the button goes off. All remotes and keypads will be erased on that motor.
- Reprogram devices per above instructions.
- If multiple doors/motors are programmed with a keypad (a different 4-digit code must be used for each door), one press of the "Enter" button on the keypad will close all open doors.
- If the door reverses when going down, it is most likely the safety eye sensors at the bottom of the door. Make sure they are clean and pointed at each other, no objects are blocking them, and all the wires are connected.
- Whenever a remote button or keypad "Enter" button is pressed, the device is sending out the radio signal. Holding the remote or "Enter" button down for a few seconds will increase the range and effectiveness of the signal.
- The keypad "Enter" button may have to be pressed twice sometimes to send out a good signal.
- Changing batteries will not erase the programmed codes.
Garage Door FAQs
Yes, you can repaint your C.H.I. door if necessary. You can download painting instructions here.
Use a mild detergent to wash your door; do not use abrasive cleansers. Check for scratches that can be reasonably repaired. If bare metal is exposed, treat with a zinc-based primer. Avoid excessive touch-up; post-applied panting will not match original factory finish.
DASMA and IDA have jointly issued a national consumer alert to warn the public about a nationwide garage door repair scam. Click here to see the four videos on how to avoid garage door scams.
Standard for Safety Door, Drapery, Gate, Louver, and Window Operators and Systems. To protect your family, pets, visitors, and property, we use only UL 325-compliant products and follow the installation safety standards set forth in the Underwriters Laboratories 325 2020.
A garage door opening represents a large opening in your home's thermal barrier. An insulated garage door will help to reduce the amount of outside temperature that enters your garage, thus reducing the amount of energy required to cool or heat your home. Insulated doors also reduce noise from the exterior of your home.
While we suggest a certified professional undertake any major repairs, there are some steps you can take to maintain your door. They are:
- Periodically lubricate your garage or overhead door track. Just give us a call to help you determine the best methods for lubricating your specific door.
- Clean the frame's weather stripping with vinyl cleaner and lubricate it once every other month with an appropriate product to keep the stripping pliable.
- Inspect the rollers every six months and replace any that are worn or broken, or call us and have us replace them.
- If you have painted the door, periodically paint the exterior to help protect it from the elements.
Garage Door Springs
A "cycle" is one full opening and closing action. Garage door torsion springs are rated by cycle life, with 10,000 cycles as the industry standard minimum. Upgrades are available to around 100,000 cycles. The average spring breaks about every 7 to 12 years with average usage for the recommended product. If a garage door has two or more springs and one breaks, all springs should be replaced to maintain proper balance.
Garage Door Failure
The leading causes of garage door failure and/or replacement include lack of maintenance and being hit by vehicles. A proper maintenance schedule for a garage door includes lubrication of the rollers, bearings, pulleys, and springs once a year; washing painted steel surfaces several times a year; painting or refinishing wood surfaces as necessary; and making proper adjustments to the counter balance system as necessary to maintain door balance. A properly balanced garage door should be able to be stopped mid-travel without drifting down or up when operated manually.
DO NOT let children (or adults) play "beat the door." It is dangerous and can result in serious injury or death. Adults should set a good example. Know how to use the emergency release, in case someone is pinned by the door.
DO NOT let children play with or use transmitters or remote controls. Always place and store them out of the reach of children.
The push button wall control should be out of the reach of children (at least 5 feet from the floor) and away from all moving parts. Mount and use the button where you can clearly see the moving garage door.
Provided by International Door Association www.doors.org
