If your automatic door stopped working after a power outage, it may not be broken. Most automatic door operators need a manual reset before they'll function again after power is restored. In some cases, a power surge damages the controller board or motor, which requires a technician. KDL Locksmith serves Toronto and the GTA with same-day automatic door service. Call 416-303-0255 and we'll walk you through a reset over the phone first — free of charge — before sending anyone out.

Try This Before Calling a Technician

These steps resolve about 40% of post-outage door faults without a service visit:

Step 1 — Check the breaker

Go to your electrical panel and confirm the breaker for the door operator hasn't tripped. If it has, reset it and wait 30 seconds before testing the door.

Step 2 — Check the operator power light

Look at the door operator unit (usually above the door). If there's no indicator light at all, the unit isn't receiving power. Check the power supply and any fuses inside the operator housing.

Step 3 — Try a manual reset

Most operators have a reset button on the unit or control panel. Press and hold for 5–10 seconds. Some brands require you to disconnect power, wait 60 seconds, then reconnect.

Step 4 — Check the manual release

If the door needs to be operational immediately, most automatic door operators have a manual release that lets you operate the door by hand. Look for a red lever or cord near the operator unit.

Step 5 — Note any error codes

If the control panel is showing a flashing light or error code, write it down. This tells the technician exactly what failed before calling.

What Power Outages Actually Do to Automatic Door Operators

A standard power outage rarely causes permanent damage — the unit simply loses power and needs a reset when power returns. The more dangerous scenario is a power surge: a sudden spike in voltage that can blow the controller board, damage the motor windings, or wipe the operator's settings.

Signs your operator was damaged by a surge (not just the outage):

• Unit has power but door doesn't respond to any input
• Error codes that weren't there before the outage
• Burning smell near the operator unit
• Door moves erratically or only in one direction
• Push buttons stopped working entirely

If you're seeing any of these, the controller board likely needs replacement. KDL Locksmith carries boards for Dormakaba, Horton, Tormax, Besam, Micom, Ditec, Rhinotek, and Hunter.

Frequently Asked Questions

My automatic door has power but won't open after an outage — what happened?

The controller board may have lost its settings or a power surge may have damaged it. Most operators need a reset sequence after power is restored. Call 416-303-0255 — we'll walk you through it over the phone first.

How do I manually open an automatic door during a power outage?

Most automatic door operators have a manual release — typically a red lever, cord, or switch near the operator unit. Activating it disconnects the motor and lets you slide or push the door by hand. Call us and we'll guide you through it for your specific operator.

How much does it cost to repair an automatic door damaged by a power surge?

If only a reset is needed: no charge over the phone. Controller board replacement: $400–$900 CAD. Motor replacement: $300–$700. We quote before starting any work.

My door worked fine for a day after the outage and then stopped — why?

This is a common pattern with surge-damaged controller boards. The board functions briefly then fails as internal components continue to degrade. The board likely needs replacement. Call 416-303-0255.