If your garage door suddenly feels heavy, jerks while moving, or refuses to open, the issue may be with your garage door springs. While small in size, springs carry the entire load of your garage door system, and when they begin to fail, things can go wrong quickly.
For homeowners and business owners in Surprise, AZ, where garage doors get heavy use and endure intense heat, knowing the basics about spring types and maintenance can help you avoid surprise breakdowns—and expensive emergency calls.
Here’s everything you need to know about garage door spring types, their expected lifespan, and how to know when it’s time for a replacement.
1. Torsion Springs vs. Extension Springs
Garage doors use one of two spring systems: torsion or extension. Each works differently and has its own benefits.
Torsion Springs
- Installed above the door, parallel to the header
- Use torque to lift the door evenly
- More durable and smoother operation
- Typically last longer than extension springs
Torsion springs are ideal for homes in Surprise, where high heat and dust can affect moving parts. They offer better weight distribution and are generally considered safer when installed properly.
Extension Springs
- Mounted on either side of the door
- Stretch and contract to assist lifting
- Common in older or smaller garage setups
- Lower cost but require more maintenance
If your garage door uses extension springs, you may notice more bounce or uneven movement. These springs are more prone to wear and should be checked regularly.
To learn more about your current spring setup, visit our Spring Replacement Services page.
2. How Long Do Garage Door Springs Last?
Garage door springs are rated by cycle life—one cycle equals one full open-and-close operation.
- Standard torsion springs: ~10,000 cycles (7–10 years for most households)
- High-cycle springs: 20,000+ cycles (great for frequent use)
- Extension springs: ~7,000–10,000 cycles (5–8 years typical lifespan)
However, in a climate like Surprise, AZ, extreme heat and dust can reduce spring lifespan by drying out lubrication and increasing metal fatigue. Frequent use—like opening your garage multiple times per day—also wears springs faster.
Pro Tip: If your garage door is your main entry point, consider upgrading to high-cycle torsion springs for longer performance.
3. Signs Your Garage Door Springs Are Failing
Recognizing early signs of failure can prevent bigger problems. Here’s what to watch for:
- Door feels heavier than usual
- Door won’t stay open or sags at the top
- Loud bang from the garage (often a snapped spring)
- Uneven movement or jerking
- Opener struggles or stops mid-cycle
- Visible gaps in the torsion spring
If you notice any of these issues, it’s best to stop using the door and avoid disconnecting the opener manually. Tension-loaded springs are dangerous to adjust without proper tools or training.
Explore the most common issues we address on our Garage Door Repair page.
4. Why You Shouldn’t Replace Springs Yourself
Garage door springs are under hundreds of pounds of pressure. A DIY replacement can result in:
- Serious injury or equipment damage
- Stripped parts or misaligned tracks
- Voided warranties on your door or opener
- Costly mistakes that worsen the original issue
Professional spring replacement ensures the correct spring type and size is installed with the right tension. It also includes testing, balancing, and safety inspection.
Our trained techs in Surprise, AZ handle same-day spring replacement with reliable parts and expert calibration. Learn more at Spring Replacement Services.
5. How to Extend the Life of Your Springs
Routine maintenance helps your springs last longer and perform better, even in Arizona’s intense climate. Here’s how:
- Lubricate springs, hinges, and rollers every 3–6 months
- Keep dust and debris clear from tracks and moving parts
- Don’t overuse manual overrides (they bypass tension control)
- Schedule annual professional inspections to check for wear
- Replace both springs if one breaks—this ensures balanced operation
Consider signing up for a maintenance plan through a trusted local provider like Pride Garage Doors, especially if you’ve had spring issues in the past.
Final Thoughts
Garage door springs may not look like much, but they carry the weight—literally—of your entire garage system. When they fail, they can leave you stuck, locked in, or facing expensive repairs.
Understanding the differences between torsion and extension springs, their typical lifespan, and the warning signs of wear can help you stay ahead of emergencies. And if something does go wrong, always call a professional for safe, effective spring replacement.
In Surprise, AZ, where garages work hard in extreme conditions, keeping your springs in top shape is one of the smartest home maintenance steps you can take.
