Garage door sensors are an important feature of your garage door system. They prevent the door from closing when an obstruction is detected in its path. This functionality protects vehicles and personal property and ensures the safety of people and pets.
Understanding how these sensors work and knowing how to troubleshoot them when issues arise is essential for maintaining a functional, safe garage door system.
In this blog post, the garage door experts at Overhead Door Company of Concord explain how garage door sensors work, the signs that indicate your sensor may be failing and how you can troubleshoot your garage door sensor before calling a professional for repair.
How Garage Door Sensors Work
Garage door sensors usually consist of two small units positioned on either side of the garage door near the ground. These sensors work by emitting an invisible beam of light across the width of the door. When the door is closing, the sensors communicate with each other to ensure that the beam is uninterrupted. If something breaks the beam — such as a person, pet or object — the sensors send a signal to the garage door opener to stop and reverse the door’s movement.
If the sensors malfunction, the garage door may fail to close properly, potentially leading to safety risks or damage to the door and its components. That’s why it’s critical to promptly repair or replace malfunctioning sensors to avoid accidents or further complications.
Signs There Are Issues With Your Garage Door Sensor
It’s not uncommon for garage door sensors to experience issues throughout their lifetime. Recognizing the signs of a failing system can help you correct small issues before they escalate into major emergencies. Below are a few key indications that point to a failing garage door sensor:
- Closing failure: If your garage door won’t close all the way or reverses immediately after hitting the floor, the sensors may be blocked, misaligned, or malfunctioning.
- Flashing lights: Most garage door sensors have indicator lights. If these lights begin to flash or aren’t illuminated, it could indicate the sensors are misaligned or there’s an electrical malfunction.
- Unusual noises: Grinding or clicking sounds when the garage door is in motion may indicate that the sensors are malfunctioning.
- Intermittent operation: If your garage door only closes sometimes or requires multiple attempts to close, the sensors might be experiencing intermittent failures.
- Visible obstructions: Anything that blocks the sensors, such as dirt accumulation on the lenses, can prevent the sensors from working properly.
- Always open: If the door stays open and won’t shut, even after checking for obstructions, it’s a clear sign that your sensors may be damaged or defective.
Troubleshooting Your Garage Door Sensors
If you suspect there’s a problem with your garage door sensors, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take before calling in a professional for help:
- Check for obstructions: Ensure nothing is blocking the sensors. Even a small object can prevent them from functioning properly.
- Clean the lenses: Dirt, dust and debris can accumulate on the sensor lenses over time. Wipe them clean with a soft cloth.
- Align the sensors: Ensure the sensors are properly aligned. They should be facing each other directly without any tilting.
- Inspect the wiring: Check the wires connected to the sensors for any signs of damage or wear. If you notice frayed or exposed wires, it’s best to contact a professional.
- Test the sensors: Use an object like a broom to break the sensor beam while the door is closing. If the door doesn’t stop and reverse, the sensors may need repair or replacement.
Schedule Garage Door Repair With OHD Concord
If you’ve tried troubleshooting your garage door sensors and are still experiencing issues, it’s time to call in the professionals at OHD Concord. Our team specializes in garage door repair and maintenance, quickly diagnosing and fixing any sensor-related problems to fully restore safe, efficient garage door operation.
Don’t risk your home’s safety and security — contact our team online to schedule garage door repair today.
