Garage Door Emergency Release Cord Replacement

An emergency release cord is a vital safety feature for any garage door, allowing you to open the door manually in the event of a power outage or other emergency. If your emergency release cord is damaged or missing, it's important to replace it as soon as possible. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you do just that:

Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Materials

You will need the following tools and materials to replace your garage door emergency release cord:

New emergency release cord
Phillips head screwdriver
Step ladder
Flashlight (optional)

Step 2: Locate the Emergency Release Cord

The emergency release cord is typically located near the center of the garage door, about 6 feet off the ground. It is usually attached to a red or orange handle that hangs down from the ceiling.

Step 3: Remove the Old Emergency Release Cord

Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the two screws that hold the emergency release cord handle in place. Once the screws are removed, pull the handle down to detach it from the cord.

Step 4: Thread the New Emergency Release Cord

Take the new emergency release cord and thread it through the hole in the garage door. Make sure that the cord is long enough to reach the floor when the garage door is fully closed.

Step 5: Attach the New Emergency Release Cord Handle

Take the emergency release cord handle and insert it into the hole in the garage door. Align the holes in the handle with the holes in the bracket and insert the screws. Tighten the screws using a Phillips head screwdriver.

Step 6: Test the Emergency Release Cord

Close the garage door and pull on the emergency release cord to make sure that it works properly. The door should open smoothly and easily.

Step 7: Stow the Emergency Release Cord

Once you have tested the emergency release cord, stow it in a safe place where it can be easily accessed in the event of an emergency.

Tips

If you have a high garage door, you may need to use a step ladder to reach the emergency release cord.
If you are having difficulty removing the old emergency release cord, you may need to use a flashlight to see better.
It is a good idea to replace the emergency release cord every few years, or more often if it is damaged or frayed.