How to Open Your Garage Door Manually During a Power Outage

How to Open Your Garage Door When the Power’s Out (Safely!)

A power outage doesn’t just cut the lights—it can leave your vehicle trapped inside your garage.

Whether you're rushing to work or just trying to get groceries, knowing how to manually open your garage door is essential for Calgary homeowners. But do it wrong, and you risk injury or serious damage to your door or opener.

At C Town Doors, we’ve seen it all. So here’s our expert, step-by-step guide on how to safely open your garage door during a power outage, plus a few pro tips to keep your door in top shape year-round.

First, Know This Before You Start

If your garage door was already partially open when the power went out, do not attempt to operate it manually unless you’re absolutely sure the tension springs are intact. A sudden drop could damage the door or hurt someone nearby.

Also: If your garage door shakes, sticks, or feels off balance, that’s a red flag. Check out our Garage Door Spring Repair Calgary page to learn more or book a safety inspection.

Step-by-Step: How to Open Your Garage Door Manually

1. Ensure the Door Is Fully Closed (If Possible)

• Trying to disengage the door when it's partially open is dangerous.
• If it's stuck mid-way, call a professional—you could be dealing with spring tension issues.

2. Disconnect the Opener with the Emergency Release

• Look for the red cord hanging from the garage door opener rail (usually near the center).
• Pull down firmly on the cord. This disconnects the door from the opener trolley, allowing manual operation.

Tip: Only pull this when the door is fully closed to avoid the door slamming down.

3. Lift the Door Manually

• Grip the door with both hands and lift straight up with a smooth motion.
• It should move easily if springs and tracks are in good shape.
• If it’s heavy or jerky, stop. You may need Garage Door Parts like rollers or springs replaced.

4. Secure the Door Open (If Needed)

• If you’re leaving the garage open, brace it with a locking mechanism or temporary block to avoid sudden closure due to spring issues or wind.

5. Reconnect the Opener Once Power Returns

• Pull the red cord again (in the opposite direction or straight down and toward the opener) to re-engage the opener.
• Then, activate the garage door opener button — it should catch and begin operating automatically again.

Safety Tips from Our Calgary Garage Door Experts

• Don’t force the door. If it’s jammed, the issue could be a broken spring or bent track.
• Avoid DIY repairs during outages. Without power, you lose the safety backup of sensors and lights.
• Keep your manual locked. Many homeowners forget how to use the manual release—check your garage door opener’s guide once a year.
• Schedule a winter tune-up. Power outages are more common during storms. Prevent surprises with a garage door maintenance visit.

Upgrade Tip: Battery Backup Garage Door Openers

Want to avoid this situation altogether? Consider upgrading to a garage door opener with battery backup. These systems automatically switch to battery power when electricity goes out, giving you uninterrupted access.

Learn more on our Garage Door Opener Installation page or contact us for a quote.

Final Word: Don’t Risk It If Something Feels Off

Manual garage door operation is a helpful feature—but only if your system is functioning properly. If your door feels heavy, grinds while moving, or won’t stay open, it could be time for garage door repairs in Calgary.

At C Town Doors, we’re here to help with:

• Emergency garage door repairs
• Spring replacement
• Garage door opener upgrades
• Winter-ready garage door tune-ups