How Do You Open an Electric Garage Door Manually?

Electric garage doors are convenient and easy to use, but what happens when there’s a power outage or the motor fails? In those situations, knowing how to open your garage door manually can save you time, stress, and maybe even an emergency call. In this blog, we’ll explain how to manually open an electric garage door safely and easily, using basic language for every homeowner to understand.

Why You Might Need to Open It Manually

There are several reasons why your garage door might stop working:

Power outage

Motor or opener failure

Remote battery died

Broken garage door springs or cables

When this happens, the motor can’t do its job, and you’ll need to manually open the garage door to get your car out or access your garage.

Important Safety Note

Before you start, always make sure the garage door is fully closed. Trying to release the door while it’s open or halfway could cause it to fall and lead to injury or damage. If you suspect a problem with the springs or cables, it’s best to call a professional right away. Garage door springs are under high tension and can be dangerous.

Step-by-Step Guide to Open Your Garage Door Manually

1. Locate the Emergency Release Cord

Every electric garage door opener has an emergency release cord. This is usually a red rope or handle hanging from the opener rail, located near the center of your garage ceiling.

2. Pull the Emergency Release Cord

Pulling the red cord will disconnect the garage door from the automatic opener. You should hear a click or pop, which means the motor is now disengaged. This allows you to move the door by hand.

3. Lift the Garage Door Manually

With the opener disengaged, gently lift the door straight up using both hands. It may take a little effort, but the door should move smoothly if the springs are in good shape.

If the door feels too heavy or is not lifting easily, the garage door springs may be broken. In that case, don’t force it—call for Garage Door Spring Repair OKC from a trusted service provider.

4. Drive Your Car Out (If Needed)

Once the door is fully open, keep it in the upright position while you drive your vehicle out. Be cautious and make sure the door stays open. Some garage doors don’t stay up without power, so you may need someone to hold it or use a clamp to keep it secure.

5. Close the Door Again Manually

When you’re ready to close the garage door, carefully lower it back down by hand. Make sure it’s fully closed before you walk away.

How to Reconnect Your Garage Door Opener

Once power is restored or the problem with the motor is fixed, you’ll want to reconnect the door to the opener.

Here’s how:

Pull the red release cord again, toward the motor unit.

Lift the door slightly until you hear it click back into place.

Or, press the garage door opener button, and it will reconnect automatically in most models.

Now your garage door should be back to normal, working with the remote or wall switch.

When to Call a Professional

If your door isn’t lifting properly or feels stuck, it may be a bigger issue like broken springs, damaged tracks, or a worn-out motor. That’s the time to call your local experts for help. A trusted service like Garage Door Services OKC can handle everything from Garage Door Spring Repair OKC to full Garage Door Replacement OKC.

Trying to fix a heavy or broken garage door on your own can be dangerous. Professionals know how to repair or replace Garage Door Springs OKC safely and get your door running smoothly again.

Final Thoughts

Opening an electric garage door manually is easier than it seems when you follow the right steps. Always be careful, check that the door is fully closed before releasing it, and don’t hesitate to call an expert if you’re unsure. A small issue now can turn into a big one later if not handled properly.

If you’re in Oklahoma City and need help with your garage door, trust Garage Door Services OKC for reliable, fast, and affordable service—whether it’s installation, spring repair, or full replacement.