Overhead Door Electrical Short or Ground Fault

Garage door opener trips the circuit breaker or GFCI when operated on Overhead Door opener

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Safety Warning

This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.

If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.

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Possible Causes

Shorted motor, Damaged power cord, Water intrusion into opener, Shorted light socket or bulb

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Do not repeatedly reset a tripping breaker. This indicates a potentially dangerous fault.

  • 1. Unplug opener and reset breaker: If the breaker holds with the opener unplugged, the fault is in the opener or its wiring.
  • 2. Inspect power cord: Check for cuts, crushed sections, or exposed conductors. Replace the cord if damaged.
  • 3. Remove light bulbs: Take out the opener light bulbs and test operation. A shorted bulb or socket can trip a breaker.
  • 4. Check for moisture: Look for signs of water inside the opener housing. If present, allow to dry completely and correct the source of leaks.
  • 5. Test motor and board: If the breaker still trips when the opener is plugged in and activated, the motor or internal wiring is likely shorted. Replace the motor assembly or entire opener.
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Repair Difficulty

Hard 4/5

Required Part

Power Cord, Motor Assembly, and Light Socket
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