Can You Open a Commercial Garage Door Without Power?

April 3, 2023

Manually open the garage door with a simple call to Overhead Door Co of Puget Sound!

Do you own a commercial garage door in the Puget Sound area that won't open? Have you been trying to figure out how to get it working again but aren't sure if you can do so without power?

Many Puyallup business owners and real estate investors are faced with this same question every day. Luckily, there is an answer – yes! Read on to learn how easy it is to keep your business up and running during unexpected outages.

Intro to Commercial Garage Doors

When we think of garage doors, we often think of the ones attached to our homes. However, commercial garage doors serve a different purpose altogether.

These doors are specifically designed for commercial use in places such as warehouses, fire stations, and loading docks. Commercial garage doors come in multiple materials and sizes and offer various security features to protect the valuable contents inside.

However, their uses are not limited to just security purposes. They can also increase energy efficiency and are excellent for businesses that require constant transportation of goods. With their durability, functionality, and versatility, it's no wonder why a commercial garage door is an essential element to most industries.

The Types and Features of Commercial Garage Door Openers

When it comes to commercial garage doors, there are various types to choose from, each with its own set of features.

One popular type is rolling steel doors which offer durability, security, and flexibility in terms of custom sizing. Sectional doors, made of interchangeable panels, are ideal for businesses with limited headroom or where insulation is crucial. Another option is lightweight aluminum doors, resistant to rust and corrosion and customized with tinted glass or polycarbonate panels.

No matter which type of commercial garage door you choose, make sure to prioritize safety features such as photo-eye sensors and breakaway bottom sections. With the right type of commercial garage door, you can provide optimal protection for your business while enhancing its overall aesthetic appeal.

Reasons Why You May Need to Manually Bypass a Garage Door Opener

When it comes to running a business that relies on a commercial garage door, unexpected power outages can be a major setback. However, there are a few reasons why you may need to open that garage door manually.

For example, emergency evacuations or moving large equipment out of the way quickly might require manually opening the door. Unless you're on a hospital grid, it's common for electricity to unexpectedly shut down if rolling outages are initiated to relieve the power grid. And, of course, storms can also cause a power outage.

How to Open a Garage Door Manually With an Emergency Release Key or Cord

First, locate the emergency release kit, typically found on the inside of the garage door or on the opener itself. Insert the key and turn it to release the lock. Next, carefully lift the door manually, making sure to keep your fingers clear of any moving parts. Once the garage door is open, re-engage the automatic garage door opener by pulling the release cord towards the opener and lifting the door until it clicks back into place.

A different style of garage door opener will have a red emergency release cord hanging from the garage door motor that enables you to disengage the automatic door opener so that you can also use lift the garage door manually.

Remember to never force the garage door open if it seems too heavy or difficult, as this can cause damage to the door or injury to yourself. With a little practice, opening a manual garage or door closed with an emergency release key can become a simple and quick solution in times of need.

Tips for Preventing an Emergency Situation Where You Need to Open the Door Without Power

Emergencies can come in many forms, and being prepared can make all the difference. One example is keeping a spare key or multiple keys in an accessible location to provide a quick solution. You could also consider investing in a garage door with a manual locking mechanism or scheduling practices for team members to learn how to manually pull the emergency release cord or cable to open the garage door. By taking these small but effective steps, you can feel confident in your ability to handle any situation that comes your way.

Preparing a Backup Plan in Case Your Commercial Garage Door Loses Power

No one plans for a power outage, yet they can strike at any time. With a generator or backup power source in place, your business can keep the garage door open to continue serving customers even during an outage. Not only does this keep your revenue streams flowing, but it also helps maintain customer trust and loyalty. Plus, knowing that you have a backup plan can provide peace of mind and a sense of security for you and your employees.

Stop Opening Your Garage Door Manually – Call the Experts!

Overall, a commercial garage door opener is a great addition to any business environment, especially when there is a way to utilize the garage door system without electricity if needed. In order to get the most out of your investment, ensure you understand all the options available on the market today.

Overhead Door of Puget Sound – Your Local Garage Rescuers

If you're currently fighting with your garage door track, consider calling us your emergency release cord. We know how important it is to open a garage door and will get your commercial garage repair done for you ASAP. Call now!

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