Garage Door Sensors

Garage door sensors are a safety feature designed to prevent your garage door from closing down on objects that are in its path. Without working sensors, any objects or person in the vicinity of your garage door is at risk of damage or injury.

Our team of experienced professionals understand the importance of feeling protected and safe when you’re at home, this includes the operation of your garage door. This is why we offer expert garage door sensor repair and replacement services.

How Garage Door Sensors Work

Safety sensors are the most common type of sensor and are required for the safe operation of an electric garage door. These sensors emit a red beam that runs across the bottom of your garage door opening. When the beam is broken, the sensors stop your garage door from closing to prevent injury or damage to an object, like your car.

If your garage door starts closing and something suddenly blocks the beam, the door will stop closing and start to open again. This prevents your door from closing down on anything in its path.

One surefire sign that you have a broken garage door sensor is when your door only closes partially before opening again, even when there are no obstructions obstructing the beam. In some cases, your garage door may not close at all.

Other Garage Door Sensor Types

In general, all types of garage door sensors provide the same safety measure: they signal the garage door to open if something is in the path of the closing door.

Many garage doors use pressure sensors instead of safety sensors. Pressure sensors can detect an object or person in the path of the garage door based on a miniscule amount of resistance. This type of sensor is designed to prevent your door from pressing down on any objects.

Carbon dioxide sensors,although not as common, are another type of garage door sensor. They are designed to automatically open the garage door when the carbon dioxide levels in your garage get too high.

There are also monitoring sensors that can let you know how long your garage door has been open. If your garage door has been open for an extended period or has not been opened in a while, a monitoring sensor will alert you.

Common Reasons Why Sensors Malfunction

Depending on their type of sensor, frequency of maintenance, and condition, your garage door sensors can malfunction for a variety of reasons. Below are some of the possible reasons why your garage door sensors may not be working properly.

Many garage doors use pressure sensors instead of safety sensors. Pressure sensors can detect an object or person in the path of the garage door based on a miniscule amount of resistance. This type of sensor is designed to prevent your door from pressing down on any objects.

Carbon dioxide sensors,although not as common, are another type of garage door sensor. They are designed to automatically open the garage door when the carbon dioxide levels in your garage get too high.

There are also monitoring sensors that can let you know how long your garage door has been open. If your garage door has been open for an extended period or has not been opened in a while, a monitoring sensor will alert you.

Reasons for Malfunction	Safety Sensors	Pressure Sensors	CO2 Sensors	Monitoring Sensors
Signal Interference	Something is blocking the beam. Ensure all objects are out of the way.	Damaged sensors can’t accurately detect pressure. Contact a garage door professional.	False readings. Place sensors near unfiltered air flow and away from air conditioners and vents.	Other electronic devices are interfering with the signal. Move other devices away to prevent.
Faulty power supply	Check your circuit breaker or fuse box.	Check your circuit breaker or fuse box.	Check your circuit breaker or fuse box.	Check your circuit breaker or fuse box.
LED lights out	If your safety sensors’ LED lights are out, contact a garage door professional for replacement options immediately.	If your pressure sensor uses LED lights and they are no longer working, contact a garage door professional for replacement options.	If your carbon dioxide sensor uses LED lights and they are no longer working, contact a garage door professional for replacement options.	If your monitoring sensor uses LED lights and they are no longer working, contact a garage door professional for replacement options.
Excess dirt or dust	If your sensors’ lenses are dirty, they can’t transmit signals properly. To clean them, wipe with a soft cloth.	Too much dirt and debris near the sensors can send a false message that an object is nearby. To clean them, wipe with a soft cloth.	Dirt can obstruct the sensors’ openings, blocking carbon dioxide detection. To clean them, wipe with a soft cloth.	Dirt can block the sensors’ openings, minimizing sensitivity. To clean them, wipe with a soft cloth.
Misalignment	If your sensors’ eyes can’t communicate, the sensor won’t work well. Contact a garage door professional for sensor realignment.	Misaligned sensors can provide inaccurate pressure readings. Contact a garage door professional for sensor realignment.	Carbon dioxide sensors need to be properly positioned for maximum detection. Contact a garage door professional for sensor realignment.	Monitoring sensors should be aligned correctly to accurately detect the garage door area. Contact a garage door professional for sensor realignment.
Normal wear and tear	If you’ve had your sensors for years and suspect normal wear and tear is the culprit, contact a garage door professional for replacement options.	If you’ve had your sensors for years and suspect normal wear and tear is the culprit, contact a garage door professional for replacement options.	If you’ve had your sensors for years and suspect normal wear and tear is the culprit, contact a garage door professional for replacement options.	If you’ve had your sensors for years and suspect normal wear and tear is the culprit, contact a garage door professional for replacement options.

Let Precision Garage Door Repair Your Sensors

Although they usually go unnoticed and are often hidden from view, your garage door sensors play an important role in protecting you and your family. If your garage door sensors are not working properly or are in need of maintenance or replacement, call the experts at your local Precision Garage Door Service. We provide prompt, reliable, and expert service because we know a garage door that is not working is more than just an inconvenience. To schedule an appointment, call today or find a Precision Garage Door Service professional near you.

This article is intended for general informational purposes only and may not be applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your home and property. Precision Garage Door Service is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of this blog content or your actions. For the most accurate guidance, contact the Precision Garage Door Service location nearest you for a comprehensive, on-site assessment.

FAQs About Garage Door Sensors

As a garage door service, repair, and installation leader renowned for integrity and dependability, all independently owned and operated Precision Garage Door Service locations are committed to safety, quality workmanship, and your satisfaction. This commitment includes using our expertise and years of experience to answer your questions. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about garage door sensors.

Can I test my garage door sensors?

To ensure your garage door sensors are functioning correctly, follow these steps:

1. Visual inspection: Check the LED lights on each sensor. A steady light typically indicates proper alignment, while a blinking or inactive light suggests misalignment or obstruction.
2. Obstruction test: Place an object in the path of the sensors and attempt to close the garage door. If the door reverses upon detecting the object, the sensors are working correctly.
3. Manual closure attempt: Try closing the door while blocking one sensor. The door should not close, indicating the sensors are detecting obstructions as intended.

When do garage door sensors need to be replaced?

Garage door sensors are designed to last for several years. Their lifespan can be affected by factors like exposure to sunlight, dust, and physical damage, but proactive maintenance can extend their lifespan and ensure consistent performance. Inspect your sensors annually for signs of wear, corrosion, or misalignment. If the sensors fail or show consistent issues, consider a garage door sensor replacement.

How do I know if my garage door sensors are malfunctioning?

These indicators may be signs that your sensors aren’t working as they should:

• Flashing LED lights: Suggests misalignment or obstruction.
• Garage door won't close: If the door starts to close but then reverses, sensors might be detecting an obstruction or are misaligned.
• Intermittent operation: Inconsistent door behavior can point to sensor issues.

A garage door professional can assess and repair garage door sensors.

How do I clean and maintain my garage door sensors?

Consistent upkeep can help you avoid the frustration of a garage door that won’t close and prevent the need for premature garage door sensor replacement.

• Cleaning: Gently wipe the sensor lenses with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and debris.
• Alignment check: Ensure both sensors are facing each other directly and are mounted at the same height.
• Secure mounting: Tighten any loose brackets or screws to maintain proper alignment.

Can I perform a garage door sensor replacement myself?

While some homeowners opt for DIY replacements, it's essential to verify that the new sensors are compatible with your garage door opener model. Always follow instructions and adhere strictly to the manufacturer's guidelines during installation. If you’re unsure about the process, consult a professional to ensure correct installation.

What causes garage door sensors to misalign?

Several factors can lead to sensor misalignment:

• Impact: Accidental bumps or knocks can shift sensor positions.
• Vibrations: Regular door operations can loosen mounts over time.
• Environment: Extreme temperatures or moisture can affect sensor stability.