We’re so dependent on our gadgets – no wonder we’re discombobulated when they don’t perform. Of course, some gadgets are more crucial than others. When your garage door keypad’s not working right, it’s important to get the device functioning normally again ASAP.  

To help you out, here’s a list of (reasonably) quick fixes for common causes of a garage door keypad not working as it should. Troubleshoot them yourself, or call a garage door repair service for help.

1. Check Compatibility. Are you using a universal garage door keypad, rather than the model made specifically for your garage door type? Even so-called “universal keypads” may not work with all models.
   
   
2. Check You’re Within Range. Because keypads have a limited range, they will work only when you’re within less than 30-50 feet of your garage door. (That’s about the length of 2 or 3 cars... or 5-8 social distancing measures.)
   
   
3. Verify PIN. Double-check you’re entering the correct PIN code. It’s easy to make a mistake when you use a single keypad, programmed with assorted PINs for several garage door openers.
   When you’re able to close the garage door – but not open it – with your wireless entry system, you may be inputting a temporary PIN number that has now expired. If this is the case, you’ll need to clear the keypad’s memory and reprogram it.
   
   
4. Replace Battery

Signs that you might have a low (or dead) battery include:

• Keypad does not work at all
• Remote does not work
• Keypad won’t light up
• You have to input PIN more than once

Buy a replacement battery – usually a 9-volt for newer models, although some older ones take a 12-volt. You can easily replace the battery yourself. No need to take the keypad down from its mounting; just open the cover at the bottom.

TIP: A lithium battery is a good choice if you live in a region with cold winters.

5. Check The Wires

Check both your garage door keypad and your remote for any frayed wires or loose connections. If either of those is the issue, detach the wires and reattach them securely.

6. Reboot The System

Rebooting the system when your garage door keypad is not working has a similar effect to clearing your computer cache of stored memory – it’s a simple fix that often gets things going again. First, turn off the garage door opener; then unplug it completely. Wait about 5 minutes before reinserting the plug and starting the system up again.

7. Reprogram Keypad

Press “Reset” for the keypad or change the code per manufacturer’s instructions for your particular model. Just keep in mind that If you change the keypad code, you will also have to reprogram the remote.

8. Check For Button Malfunction

If you have gotten this far and still your garage door keypad’s not working, try changing the code once again. This time, though, be sure to input only digits not currently in use.

EXAMPLE: Say your PIN is 7201. Choose a new number which does not contain any of those figures, such as 9364. If this works, it shows that one or more of your keypad buttons is malfunctioning – usually because it’s clogged with dirt.

To clean the buttons, use an alcohol wipe or compressed air spray.

9. Check For Surface Interference

When a new garage door keypad is not working, the metal surface that it is mounted on may be interfering with its wireless function. Try taking the keypad down. If your PIN now works, that indicates you will need to insert a wood or plastic buffer between the device and your mounting surface.

10. Replace Keypad

Even a good garage keypad can “go bad.” Although the keypad is usually mounted in a sheltered spot on the garage door frame, it’s still outdoors, exposed to sun, wind, rain, salt air, and/or snow. These weather conditions can shorten the keypad’s life substantially.

Average cost to replace a garage door keypad is about $30 to $60.

TIP: Program the new keypad before mounting. Place at least 5 feet above the ground, out of reach of small children.

Laura Firszt writes for networx.com.