It’s estimated that in 2016, the average customer experienced a period of four hours without power during the year. Power outages are on the rise.

Even if you’ve been unaffected, it’s best to prepare for power outages with supplies and a plan of action. One thing to include on that list is how to open the garage door without power.

Instead of wondering how you’ll get your car out of the garage if an outage strikes, use these tips to be prepared and know exactly what to do.

Doing Things the Old-Fashioned Way

Automatic residential garage doors simplify daily commuting routines with easy in-and-out vehicle access, but you might be puzzled about how to open the garage door when the power is out.

Luckily, you can do things the old-fashioned way, even with an automatic garage door that’s on the fritz because of a power outage.

Trigger the Red Cord

One way to open the garage door with no power is to turn to the trusty red cord. While it’s not always red, this is an emergency cord with a handle that can be used in situations just like this.

Using a secure ladder, pull the cord handle. Make sure that you feel a locking action when you perform this step. You can usually locate the cord somewhere near the door or on the garage door opening mechanism.

Once you’ve done this, the trolley system is disengaged from the motor. Now you’re free to carefully and manually lift the door.

Tips for Safety in Manual Mode

When you open the garage door without power in this way, there are a few safety precautions to keep in mind:

• The door will be heavy, so take care to protect your back.
• Avoid carelessly releasing the door once you get it open. It isn’t attached to the motorized track, so it can fall down easily with force.
• If the door was ajar when the power went out, steer clear of tripping manual mode. Otherwise, it will come tumbling down.
• Prop it open with the help of others or with two-by-fours to remove your vehicle.
• Keep objects and people clear of the door when you’re bringing it back down.

Opening an Electric Garage Door Without Power from the Outside

Opening an electric garage door without power can also be achieved from the outside. You may need to do this if the power outage happened while you were away at work or if you’re locked out.

This process won’t be as safe or seamless as opening the garage door from inside, but you might be able to use a clothes hanger to trigger the bypass switch through the weather stripping along the top of the garage door.

Keep Your Garage Door in Great Shape With or Without Power

If you’ve been wondering how to open a garage door without power, now you have your answer. We hope you won’t find yourself in this situation, but if you need repairs or you’re interested in a new installation, contact us and we can help you get your garage door into proper working order.