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How to Safely Open Your Garage Door if the Power Goes Out

in Garage Maintenance by Tony M

In Elk Grove and throughout California, any garage doors installed this summer are required to have battery backup. The law that took effect in June was inspired by a Congressman whose community was affected by a power failure during an evacuation in a devastating wildfire last summer. Families couldn’t work their garage doors because of the power failure. People unfortunately died as a result. Your garage door should be a beacon of safety, not a trap.

Even if you have an older door that isn’t required to have battery backup, it’s still a good idea. Outside of an extreme emergency like a wildfire evacuation, it’s a question of convenience. If the power goes out, you still need access to your garage door. Suppose you’re returning home in the middle of a thunderstorm, or your ready to leave for work or vacation? Your garage door is central to your convenience. A garage door is the primary means of entering and leaving the house for many Americans. It needs to work for you whenever you need it to.

But what if the power goes out and you don’t have battery backup? Here’s what to do.

Tripping the Garage Door Trigger Is as Easy as Releasing the Switch

Keep in mind — if your garage door is open and you release the bypass switch, it will come crashing down. And if anything — or anyone — is under the door when it’s released, it will get crushed or the person seriously injured. Keep pets, children and guests away from your garage door area while you work. Photo eyes are worthless without power and don’t affect the force of gravity.

If the door is open when the power is out, prop it open with 2x4s or some other strong brace. Release the garage door trigger and let the door rest on the brace. Disconnect the opener and raise and lower the door just as you would without an automatic garage door opener. As well, when you’re doing any sort of DIY repair, don’t do it alone. In case of any accidents with your garage door or its components, you should have someone around to help you. 

If the garage door is already closed, simply release it from the garage door opener and operate the door manually.

Consider Installing a Garage Door Backup Battery

 If you haven’t already equipped your garage door with a backup battery, it’s a smart and proactive measure worth considering. We offer professional garage door services in the Elk Grove area and are readily available to assist you with this valuable addition. 

A Garage Door Backup Battery is an Investment in Safety

A backup battery for your garage door is not just an optional feature; it’s a crucial investment in convenience and security. Here’s why it’s a wise choice:

Uninterrupted Access: A backup battery ensures that your garage door remains operational even during power outages. You won’t have to worry about being locked in or out of your garage when the electricity goes out.

Enhanced Security: With a backup battery in place, your garage door’s security features continue to function. This means that you can rely on features like automatic locking, even during power disruptions.

Peace of Mind: Knowing that you have a backup power source for your garage door provides peace of mind. Whether it’s a sudden power outage or an emergency, you can count on your garage door to perform when needed.

A Professional Garage Door Installer Can Help You

As a provider of professional garage door services in the Elk Grove area, we specialize in installing backup batteries for garage doors. Our experienced technicians can install this essential component into your garage door system. With this upgrade, you’ll be prepared for any situation.

By considering a backup battery, you’re taking a proactive step to protect your home. You’re working to ensure the continued functionality, security, and peace of mind associated with your garage door. Contact us today to explore the options and benefits of adding this valuable feature.

Why Battery Backup Should Be On Every Overhead Garage Door

Does the overhead door on your garage have a battery backup power supply? Don’t wait for the power to go out to find out! In response to the intense wildfires in California, all garage door openers now installed are required to have battery backup. The law is designed to help in the event of evacuations during major weather events like wildfires. Regardless, a battery backup is still a good idea just for convenience sake. Power does go out, whether from a major storm, a bad transformer or a drunk driver taking out a power pole. With battery backup, you can always use your door — get to work on time, open the door at the end of a long hard day. Though it’s technically only required on newly installed openers, battery backup is still good to have. Contact your local garage door professional to look into an upgrade.