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Genie Garage Door Maintenance

Genie is a well-known name in automatic garage doors. While most automatic garage door systems function in the generally the same way, the Genie brand has endured for decades, since the company first started producing garage door openers in May of 1954. Genie systems should be inspected and maintained regularly to ensure proper operation.
  1. Inspection

    • Examine the garage door system weekly to verify that the door itself isn't warped or dented. The chain that supports the door should be properly aligned with the pulleys and not too loose. There should be no cracks or rust in any of the supports. Any of these issues could negatively affect the door's performance and result in problems such as the door sticking or not opening at all. If there are any rust spots, warps or dents discovered during an inspection, these issues require immediate repair because repeated operation of the door in this condition can make the problems worsen over time.

    Cleaning

    • Cleaning the Genie system is especially important if you live in an area where road salt is used during icy weather. Salt corrodes metal over time and can damage your Genie system if it is not properly removed. Rinse the garage door itself periodically with a garden hose to wash any dirt or road salt off, so it doesn't spread to the components of the door opener. If the door chain or pulleys are looking grimy, wipe them down with a damp rag. You shouldn't need detergent when doing this, but if you use some, stick with liquid dish soap, since it removes dirt without causing damage.

    Changing the Batteries in the Remote

    • Change the batteries of the Genie garage door opener annually to ensure the opener continues to operate optimally and doesn't leave you stuck outside of your garage during an inconvenient situation. You'll need to change the batteries more often if the remote experiences a lot of use, but an annual battery change guarantees the batteries are fresh for most models. In addition, batteries sometimes bleed out battery acid as they age, and this can damage the Genie remote. Regularly changing the batteries prevents this.

    Lubrication and Testing

    • Genie recommends an oil or a silicone lubricant when servicing its rollers, bearings and hinges. Apply lubricant to these areas monthly for best results because the lubricant wears off from friction each time the garage door goes up or down. Apply extra lubricant to any areas of the system that are creaking or unusually noisy. Once lubrication is applied, disconnect the drive system from the door carriage and pull down on the emergency release to operate the door manually. Lift the door 3 feet off the ground and let it go. If it moves, Genie recommends having the door professionally repaired, since it should stay in that position until you move it again manually.