There are several reasons why your garage door opener might have stopped working. Below are some common causes and potential solutions:

1. Power Supply Issues

The most common reason for a garage door opener to stop working is a power supply issue. Check if the opener is plugged in properly and if there’s power to the outlet. If the opener is hardwired, check your circuit breaker to see if it has tripped.

2. Remote Control Problems

If the opener works manually but doesn’t respond to the remote control, the issue could be with the remote itself. This can happen if the batteries in the remote are dead or if the remote is out of range. Try replacing the batteries or reprogramming the remote.

3. Disconnected or Damaged Safety Sensors

Modern garage doors are equipped with safety sensors that prevent the door from closing if there’s an obstruction. If these sensors are misaligned or dirty, the opener may not work. Check that the sensors are aligned properly and free of dirt, cobwebs, or other obstructions.

4. Broken or Worn-out Springs

If the springs on your garage door are broken or worn out, the opener may not have enough power to lift the door. In this case, the door will often appear stuck or not move at all. If this is the case, you will need to replace the springs before the opener will work properly.

5. Faulty or Broken Motor

If the garage door opener’s motor has failed, it will stop working entirely. If you hear a humming sound but the door doesn’t move, the motor may be defective and in need of repair or replacement.

6. Worn-out or Broken Gears

The gears inside the opener can wear out over time due to frequent use. If the opener makes noise but doesn’t move the door, the gears might be damaged. Replacing the gears could fix the issue.

7. Remote or Wall Switch Malfunction

If both the remote and wall switch don’t work, there may be an issue with the opener’s internal wiring or circuit board. This can happen if the board is damaged due to a power surge or a malfunction. In such cases, a professional will need to inspect and repair the opener.

8. Misaligned or Obstructed Tracks

If the door’s tracks are bent, misaligned, or obstructed, the opener might struggle to move the door. Check the tracks for any visible issues and clear any debris blocking the path. You may also need to realign the tracks to ensure smooth operation.

9. Programming Issues

If you’ve recently installed or replaced your garage door opener, it may need to be reprogrammed. Check the manual for instructions on how to reset and program the opener to make sure it's properly synced with the door.

10. Faulty Wiring

Sometimes, the wiring in the garage door opener may become loose, frayed, or damaged, leading to a failure in operation. Inspect the wiring for any visible damage, and if necessary, have it repaired by a professional.

What Should You Do?

If the opener is not working and you can’t identify the problem yourself, it’s best to contact a professional garage door repair service. They have the expertise and tools to diagnose and fix the issue quickly and safely.

In conclusion, garage door opener issues can be caused by power problems, remote malfunctions, safety sensor issues, or mechanical failures. If basic troubleshooting doesn’t resolve the problem, it's recommended to call in a professional to avoid further damage or safety hazards.