Is Your Garage Door Motor Acting Up? Common Warning Signs

Living in sunny Florida, we rely on our garage doors for more than just parking; they are the primary entrance for many of our homes and a shield against the coastal humidity. But like any hard-working appliance, your garage door opener eventually hits its limit.

At Empire Garage Doors, we’re a local, family-run team that believes in keeping our neighborhood informed. You shouldn’t have to wait until your car is trapped inside to realize your opener is on its last legs.

Here are the most common warning signs that your garage door motor is headed for retirement.

1. The “Stutter” (Intermittent Operation)

Does your garage door not move on the first or even second time you click the remote? Or perhaps it ignores when you put your code into the keypad? This “faltering” is often a sign of failing circuit boards or an aging motor that can no longer handle the weight of the door. They typically last about 15-20 years; but could go quicker in the tropical SWFL climate.

2. Sluggish Response Time

A healthy opener should engage immediately. If you find yourself waiting several seconds after pressing the button before anything happens, the connection between the remote and the motor—or the motor itself—is likely failing. Try replacing the battery in the remote first, if this doesn’t work it very well could be the board as well.

3. It Opens, Then Reverses Automatically

While this can sometimes be a simple sensor misalignment, they can be fixed by adjusting the wingnut on the sensor bracket. To override the sensors, hold the inside button until the door drops to the ground. It’s often a sign that the safety reverse system or the internal limits of the opener are malfunctioning. In a tropical climate like ours, internal corrosion can play a role in these “phantom” movements. Call us for further assistance.

4. The Motor Doesn’t Move at All

Pressing the remote or inside button & hearing a buzzing sound? The travel module has likely seized & the motherboard inside the opener head can no longer send the necessary signals to operate the motor. This will need an entire motor replacement.

Why We Recommend LiftMaster®

When it’s time for a replacement, we don’t just install any brand. At Empire Garage Doors, we highly recommend LiftMaster.

As a local family business in Naples, Florida, we value reliability and longevity. LiftMaster stands out because:

Smart Technology: Most models integrate with the myQ® app, allowing you to monitor your garage from your phone—perfect for when you’re out at Vanderbilt Beach and can’t remember if you closed the door.
Whisper-Quiet Operation: Their belt-drive systems are legendary for being smooth and silent. Using very quiet & strong DC motors.
Durability: They are built to withstand the rigors of our Florida environment. Made with heavy-duty industrial parts, unlike other brands or one’s from a box store.

Learn more about LiftMaster 3.0, the smartest, safest, and simplest garage door technology.

Don’t Wait for a Total Breakdown

A failing opener isn’t just inconvenient; it’s a security risk. If you’ve noticed any of these red flags, it’s better to address them now rather than during a summer downpour.

Call Empire Garage Doors today, a local Trustworthy Family-Run Company. We provide excellent service and great pricing on LiftMaster motors!