Roller shutter not opening

Roller shutter not working? Trying to figure out why? Then read on to find out some common roller shutter problems and how to fix them.

Why won’t my roller shutter door open?

In this article, we’ll discuss the common issues that can cause roller shutters to not open, and provide some troubleshooting steps and DIY fixes that you can try before calling in a professional. By following the advice in this article, you’ll be able to get your roller shutter back in working order and ensure that your property remains secure.

Identifying the problem

The first step in troubleshooting a non-opening roller shutter is to identify the problem. Some common symptoms of a roller shutter that won’t open include:

• The shutter not responding to the remote control
• The motor making a humming sound but the shutter not moving
• The shutter moving slightly and then stopping
• The shutter moving up or down at an angle
• The shutter not moving at all

Once you’ve identified the symptom, the next step is to determine whether the problem is mechanical or electrical. If the motor is making a humming sound but the shutter isn’t moving, for example, it’s likely that there’s a mechanical issue. On the other hand, if the remote control isn’t working at all, it’s likely that there’s an electrical issue.

Roller shutters troubleshooting

Before attempting any fixes, it’s important to take some initial troubleshooting steps. Start by checking that the power source is working and that the remote control has fresh batteries. If these checks don’t solve the problem, try manually operating the shutter using the manual override. This will help you determine whether the issue is with the motor or with the shutter itself.

If the shutter still doesn’t open after these initial checks, you’ll need to start troubleshooting the problem in more detail. Here are some common issues that can cause roller shutters to not open and how to troubleshoot them:

• The shutter is dirty or obstructed: Dirt and debris can build up on the shutter tracks, preventing the shutter from moving. To fix this issue, clean the tracks and make sure there are no obstructions.
  
• The shutter is not lubricated: Lack of lubrication can cause the shutter to stick and not move smoothly. Apply a silicone-based lubricant to the tracks, rollers, and hinges to help the shutter move more freely.
  
• The limit settings are incorrect: Roller shutters have limit settings that tell them when to stop moving up or down. If these settings are incorrect, the shutter may not open fully. To fix this issue, adjust the limit settings according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  
• The cables or chains are loose or broken: If the cables or chains that lift and lower the shutter are loose or broken, the shutter may not move. Check for any signs of damage and tighten or replace the cables or chains as necessary.
  
• The motor is faulty: If none of the above fixes work, it’s possible that the motor is faulty. In this case, you may need to call in a professional to repair or replace the motor.

How do you fix a roller shutter that won’t open?

If you’ve identified the problem with your roller shutter and you’re comfortable working with mechanical or electrical devices, you may be able to fix the issue yourself. Here are some DIY fixes that you can try:

1. Lubricate the shutter: One common cause of non-opening roller shutters is lack of lubrication. Over time, the moving parts of the shutter can become dry and stiff, making it difficult for the shutter to open smoothly. To fix this, try lubricating the tracks, bearings, and springs with a silicone-based lubricant. This can also help fix shutters that rattle in the wind.
   
2. Tighten screws and bolts: Another cause of non-opening roller shutters is loose screws and bolts. Over time, these can become worn or loose, causing the shutter to become misaligned or unbalanced. To fix this, tighten any loose screws or bolts you can find. Be careful not to overtighten, as this can cause other problems.
   
3. Adjust limits and settings: If the shutter starts to open but then stops, it could be a problem with the limits or settings. Each roller shutter is equipped with limit switches that tell it when to stop opening and closing. If these switches become misaligned or malfunction, it can cause the shutter to stop working. Try adjusting the limits and settings to see if this solves the problem.
   
4. Check cables and chains: Another mechanical issue that can cause non-opening roller shutters is broken or damaged cables or chains. Over time, these can become worn or corroded, causing the shutter to stop working. Check for any signs of damage or wear and replace any damaged cables or chains.
   
5. Check the power source and remote control: If the shutter still won’t open, it’s time to check the power source and remote control more thoroughly. Make sure the power source is working correctly and that there are no issues with the remote control.
   

Common electric roller shutter problems

Electric roller shutters offer convenience and ease of use compared to manual ones. However, like any other electrical device, they may develop issues that could make them malfunction. Here are some common problems and solutions for electric roller shutters that will help you troubleshoot and fix the issue.

• Electric roller shutters differ from manual ones in that they have an electrical motor and control system that allows you to open and close them with a push of a button. However, this system can sometimes develop issues, and that’s when you’ll need to troubleshoot to identify the problem.
  
• The most common problem with electric roller shutters is that they stop responding to commands, and this could be due to a malfunctioning remote control, electrical wiring problems, or a damaged motor. If the remote control is the issue, try replacing the batteries or resetting it to see if that fixes the problem. If that doesn’t work, check the electrical wiring for any loose connections, frayed wires, or damaged cables that may be causing the problem.
  
• Another common issue is when the electric roller shutter stops halfway, either when opening or closing. This could be due to an obstruction in the tracks, a broken gear, or a damaged motor. Check the tracks for any debris that may be causing an obstruction, and clean them to allow smooth movement. If that doesn’t work, check the gears for any damages, and replace them if necessary.
  
• If your electric roller shutter is making strange noises, it could be due to a worn-out motor, loose connections, or damaged bearings. Check the motor for any signs of wear and tear, and replace it if necessary. Tighten any loose connections and replace any damaged bearings.

Know when to consult a professional

While some issues can be fixed with simple DIY fixes, it’s essential to know when to call a professional.

Warning signs that the problem may require professional attention include electrical faults, motor failures, and complex wiring issues. Seeking professional help is important because these problems require technical expertise and specialized equipment to fix.

Attempting to fix complex problems yourself may cause more damage or even lead to electric shock.

Conclusion

It’s essential to identify the common problems and solutions for roller shutters that aren’t working to troubleshoot and fix the issues. Regular maintenance is also crucial to prevent future problems from occurring.

However, when the issue is too complex or requires technical expertise, it’s advisable to seek professional help to avoid any risks or further damage.