How to Align Your Garage Door Sensors: A Complete Guide

A misaligned garage door sensor can be frustrating, especially when it stops your door from closing or affecting your personal safety. You’ve probably experienced the frustration of your garage door refusing to close.

This is a common problem caused by faulty garage door sensor alignment. When these sensors are not properly aligned, they fail to communicate correctly. Leaving you with a malfunctioning door that compromises both convenience and safety.

Whether you’re dealing with a misalignment or a more severe malfunction, this guide will provide the solutions you need to get your garage door working smoothly again.

What Are Garage Door Sensors?

Garage door sensors are small yet vital components of your garage door system. They work together to ensure that your garage door operates safely and efficiently. When working correctly, garage door sensors prevent the garage door from closing when there’s an obstruction.

The Function of Garage Door Sensors

Garage door sensors are typically located on both sides of the garage door, close to the ground. The sensors have an invisible beam, and if the beam is interrupted, the garage door will not close. This is an important safety feature that prevents the door from shutting on a car or, more importantly, a person or pet. 

The sensors detect any obstruction in the garage doorway path and instantly reverse its motion to prevent accidents. Regularly checking and maintaining the sensors is essential to ensure they function correctly. In some cases, sensor misalignment or dirt buildup can cause the system to malfunction.

Types of Sensors Used in Garage Doors

Most modern garage doors come equipped with photo-eye sensors, which are the most common type of garage door sensor. These sensors utilize infrared technology to detect interruptions in the beam. When the beam is broken, the door will automatically reverse to prevent accidents.

Another type is the safety reversing sensor, designed to automatically reverse the door if an obstruction is detected. Unlike photo-eyes, safety reversing sensors detect if an object, person, or pet is in the path of a moving door and cause the door to reverse to prevent harm.

Both of these garage door sensors work together to enhance safety and functionality, making them an essential part of your garage door system.

Signs Your Garage Door Sensors Are Misaligned

Knowing the signs of misalignment can save you time and prevent further damage to your system. One of the most obvious indicators is when your garage door refuses to close or starts to close and then reverses back up. You might also notice blinking lights on the garage door opener or hear clicking sounds. Misaligned sensors can lead to erratic behavior, making your garage door unreliable and potentially unsafe. 

Other misalignment signs may include your garage door sopping suddenly or failing to respond to controls. In some cases, you may even hear strange noises like grinding or straining sounds when the door attempts to move. This could signal that the misalignment is affecting the motor or other components. Regularly checking the alignment of your garage sensors and addressing issues early can help you avoid these complications. 

How to Align Garage Door Sensors

Aligning garage door sensors can be a simple DIY task if you follow these steps.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Aligning Sensors

  1. Breaker box: Before starting, make sure you are turning off the power to your garage door to avoid any accidents.
  2. Inspect the Sensors: Check if the sensors are visibly out of alignment, dusty, or blocked.
  3. Adjust the Sensors: Loosen the screws holding the sensors and adjust them until they face each other perfectly. Use a level to ensure they are aligned horizontally.
  4. Tighten and Test: Once aligned, tighten the screws and test the garage door to ensure it’s working properly.

Tools Needed for the Task:

  • A level
  • Screwdriver
  • Measuring tape
  • Soft cloth for cleaning
  • Electric resistant gloves

When to Call a Garage Door Professional

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, professional garage door repair is necessary. If your garage door still malfunctions after aligning the sensors, or if there are damaged wires, it’s time to call in the experts. A professional technician can conduct a thorough inspection and identify deeper issues. While having the same goal as you, that your garage door system is functioning safely and efficiently.

They have the expertise and tools to address problems that may not be apparent to the untrained eye. Attempting to fix complex issues without the proper knowledge can lead to further damage or pose safety risks. By entrusting your garage door to a professional, you can avoid unnecessary expenses and enjoy peace of mind.

Call on The Woodlands Garage Door Service

Aligning your garage door sensors is a key part of maintaining your garage door system. By recognizing the signs of misalignment, you can keep your door operating smoothly and safely

Contact Woodlands Garage Door for expert assistance. We will keep your garage door sensors in check, and keep your garage secure and hassle-free. For ongoing tips and advice, consider reaching out to us for regular maintenance and check-ups.

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