Is Your Automatic Door Not Working? Troubleshooting Tips for Businesses
Automatic doors enhance accessibility and improve traffic flow, but when they stop working, they can disrupt business operations. Common issues include:
These are among the most frequent reasons for calls requesting commercial door repair in Burlington and surrounding areas. Prompt diagnosis minimizes downtime and keeps your entrance functioning smoothly.
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An automatic door opens and closes using sensors—typically microwave, infrared, or pressure-sensitive. These systems detect when a person approaches and activate an electric motor that controls the door.
Automatic doors often include:
They’re powered by electric motors and controlled via circuit-based systems, offering energy efficiency, accessibility, and safety. Automatic doors are commonly used in commercial buildings, healthcare facilities, public transit stations, and retail environments.
Today: The IBC (International Building Code) mandates automatic doors at most public building entrances.
Before working on any automatic door system, take these precautions:
In short: Prioritize safety. If in doubt, call a professional.
Start with a visual check:
A quick inspection can often identify the problem and save on an unnecessary service call.
Start with the basics:
If the breaker trips repeatedly, this suggests a deeper electrical issue. For locations prone to outages, consider a backup power supply (UPS or generator) to maintain door function during emergencies.
Power supply issues are one of the most common root causes of commercial door repair calls in Burlington and nearby areas.
Sensor malfunctions often cause failure to detect motion. Start by:
If issues persist after cleaning and testing, professional recalibration may be required.
Even minor misalignment can cause friction or resistance. Ensure the door panels sit correctly within the frame.
Inspect for anything physically blocking the door’s path—ice, debris, or objects near the threshold.
Look for wear, cracking, or damage. These components must operate smoothly for consistent performance.
Clean the track regularly and inspect for dents, buildup, or damage.
If mechanical issues continue, seek commercial door repair services in Burlington and surrounding areas to prevent further damage and ensure proper function.
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The control system coordinates sensors, motors, and safety features. Malfunctions here may appear as:
Most control systems include a reset function on the panel. You may also try disconnecting and reconnecting power. If issues persist, this may indicate a component fault that requires professional attention.
While basic troubleshooting may resolve minor issues, the following problems require expert service:
Attempting repairs without proper training can cause further damage and void warranties. For businesses in Burlington and surrounding areas, it’s best to work with qualified commercial door repair technicians who have the tools and expertise to safely restore your system.
Check the circuit breaker, power cord, and any emergency shut-off switches. Confirm that power is being supplied and that there hasn’t been a recent outage. A disconnected or inactive power source is one of the most common causes of automatic door failure.
Dust, debris, or even direct sunlight can interfere with sensor performance. Clean both lenses and ensure the beam path is clear to avoid false triggers or the door remaining open.
Inspect the track for dirt, debris, or foreign objects. Any blockage can cause binding or restrict the rollers, preventing smooth movement.
Check whether the emergency break-out or manual release feature has been triggered. If so, reset the mechanism to return the door to automatic operation.
If the door doesn’t attempt to move, it may indicate a power supply failure or a control system fault. Partial movement points to a mechanical or sensor-related issue.
Environmental conditions can impact automatic doors. Wind pressure, ice buildup, or water infiltration can affect sensor performance, alignment, or mechanical components.
Grinding, squealing, or banging sounds often point to issues with the rollers, hinges, track, or drive operator. These should be inspected promptly to prevent further damage.
Preventative maintenance helps avoid unexpected breakdowns. If the door hasn’t been serviced recently, accumulated wear may be contributing to the problem.