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Garage doors, often neglected, are complex structures. They require multiple components working together to function properly. One such crucial element is the garage door safety sensor. Understanding its role in your garage door operation can help you maintain your door and ensure its safe use.
What are Garage Door Safety Sensors?
Garage door safety sensors are designed to prevent the garage door from closing if there’s an object in its path. They are usually located on either side of the garage door, just above the ground. These sensors transmit an invisible beam across the door opening, which if interrupted, causes the door to stop and reverse its movement. These safety devices are not just a fancy add-on, they’re a mandatory feature as per federal regulations.
You can learn more about essential garage door safety features on our website.
How Do They Work?
The garage door safety sensors work using a simple yet effective mechanism. One sensor sends an infrared signal, while the other sensor receives it. If an object blocks this signal, the door either stops closing or reverses its direction. When functioning correctly, these sensors can protect your car, your belongings, and most importantly, people and pets from getting caught under a closing door.
You can read a more detailed explanation about how garage door springs work here.
Troubleshooting Garage Door Sensor Issues
Occasionally, the garage door may refuse to close, even when there’s no visible obstruction. This could indicate a problem with the safety sensors. Here are some common issues you might encounter:
- Dirty Sensors: The lens on the sensor could get dirty, obstructing the infrared beam. Regular cleaning can easily fix this issue.
- Misaligned Sensors: If the sensors are not properly aligned, the transmitted beam may not reach the receiving sensor. You may need to adjust the sensors to align them correctly.
- Wiring Problems: Faulty wires can disrupt the signal between the sensor and the garage door opener. Inspect the wires for any visible damage.
Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if needed. We have some basic DIY garage door repairs that you might find helpful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my garage door sensors not working?
If your garage door sensors aren’t working, the problem could be due to a variety of reasons, such as dirty or misaligned sensors, or faulty wiring. For a more comprehensive list of common problems, visit our common garage door repairs page.
Can I bypass the garage door safety sensors?
While technically possible, it’s highly advised not to bypass the garage door safety sensors. These sensors are a crucial safety feature designed to prevent accidents. Tampering with them could lead to serious injury. Learn more about why you shouldn’t DIY garage door repair.
Is it easy to replace garage door sensors?
Replacing garage door sensors can be a simple task for those with technical knowledge. However, it’s recommended to have a professional perform the replacement to ensure it’s done correctly. You can get more information about sensor replacements on our photo-eye sensor install blog post.
How can I maintain my garage door sensors?
Routine cleaning and checks for alignment and wiring issues can help maintain your garage door sensors. Regular annual garage door maintenance can extend the lifespan of your garage door and its components.
The Bottom Line
Garage door safety sensors are a vital part of your garage door system. They safeguard your property and loved ones from potential harm. Regular maintenance can ensure they continue to function correctly and help avoid unexpected repairs.
Remember, safety comes first. While troubleshooting minor issues can be done at home, always seek professional help for major issues and installations. If you’re located in Toronto, check out our garage door repair services.
