what are the open and close limits of a garage door opener?

The open and close limit on garage door openers are the settings that control how far your

garage door opens and closes when using the wall button or remote to open and close the

garage door. These limits need to be set properly to avoid damage to the garage door opener

or garage door.

The limit adjustments are found on the back or side of the garage door opener motor

depending on the manufacturer and model number. On some models the adjustments are set

using screws that are turned to increase and decrease open and close distance/limits. On other

models it is done using electronic buttons to program these limits. On many screw drive

openers the limit switches attach to the opener rail and are adjusted by moving the limit

switches forward and backward on the rail to the desired open and closed positions.

You will need to refer to the owner’s manual for your manufacturer and model number for

specific instructions for setting the open and close limits for your opener. These manuals can be

found online if you do not have a printed copy.

When setting the open limits remember you want to have a minimum of 1″ inch between the

trolley and the open stop bolt. The open stop bolt is a bolt in the rail that prevents the door

from opening too far causing damage to the opener and or garage door. In the fully open

position the bottom of the garage door should be even with the bottom of the garage door

header. The garage door header is the top of the framed out portion of the garage door

opening. If the door opens further than this, it can create issues with door causing the door to

go off track.

This off track can occur when the door opens too far and the cables can potentially

come loose from the bottom bracket.

When setting the down/closed limits, remember the door only needs to close only to the point

that the weather stripping seals against the floor. If the door closes further than this it can

cause a flexing or bending of the opener rail that can cause damage to the rail, the opener and

the garage door itself. Setting the down/closed limits too far down can also interfere with the

emergency reverse, that protects against the door closing on items, including people or pets

that are under the garage door.

If you are having problems setting the up/open or down/close limits, use our DIY section or

call a garage door service

technician for assistance. In some cases the opener limit system may be damaged and need to

be replaced or the proper programming procedures are not being followed.

If the unit is working properly you should be able to follow the instructions to set the open and

close limits. This process should only take a few minutes, but be sure to read and follow the

instructions for the manufacturer and model number of your garage door opener.