If your garage door isn’t closing all the way or keeps reversing, your garage door sensor might be the reason why. These small devices are a big deal when it comes to safety, and knowing how to align garage door sensors can save you time, money, and stress.
Let’s break it all down in a simple way.
What is a Garage Door Sensor?
A garage door sensor is a safety feature that stops the door from closing if something is in the way. These sensors are usually located on both sides of your garage door, just a few inches from the ground. They talk to each other using an invisible beam of light.
When the beam is broken—by a person, pet, or object—the sensor tells the garage door to stop or reverse. It’s an important part of keeping your family and property safe. Without garage door sensors, there would be a much higher risk of injury or property damage every time you close the door.
How Garage Door Sensors Work
Garage door sensors work in pairs:
- Sender sensor: Shoots an infrared beam across the garage door opening.
- Receiver sensor: Detects the beam from the sender.
If something blocks that beam, the sensors stop the door from closing. It’s a simple yet powerful safety system. Most modern garage door openers include sensors as part of the standard package. Some may even shut down entirely if the sensors are removed or not working properly.
These sensors use a low-voltage signal and don’t consume much electricity. But their role is crucial. Even slight misalignment can cause false signals that keep the door from operating correctly.
Signs Your Garage Door Sensor is Misaligned
If your sensors aren’t aligned, they can’t communicate. Here’s how to tell something’s off:
- Garage door won’t close fully.
- Garage door reverses after starting to close.
- Blinking lights on one or both sensors.
- Garage door only closes when you hold the wall button down.
A misaligned sensor can behave as if there’s something in the way—when there isn’t. That can be frustrating, especially if you’re in a rush. It can also lead to repeated wear on your garage door opener system.
How to Align Garage Door Sensors
Here’s a step-by-step way to align garage door sensors:
- Turn off the power to your garage door opener for safety.
- Loosen the screws holding the sensors in place.
- Gently move the sensors so they point directly at each other.
- Check the indicator lights – they should be solid, not blinking.
- Tighten the screws to lock the sensors in place.
- Turn the power back on and test your garage door.
If the door closes normally and the sensor lights are steady, you’ve done it right!
Pro tip: Use a string and a level. Tie the string between the sensors and make sure it’s level. This helps ensure the beam is aligned perfectly.
Quick Troubleshooting Tips
- Clean the lenses with a soft cloth. Dirt or spider webs can block the beam.
- Check for obstacles in the sensor’s path.
- Inspect wiring for damage or loose connections.
- Shield from direct sunlight, which can interfere with the infrared beam.
- Try resetting your garage door opener by unplugging it for 30 seconds.
Still having issues? Don’t wait too long to get help. Garage doors are heavy, and any safety malfunction should be fixed quickly.
Common Causes of Sensor Problems
There are a few common reasons why garage door sensors stop working correctly:
- Dirty lenses: Dust, cobwebs, or moisture can block the infrared beam.
- Sunlight interference: Bright light shining directly into the sensor can confuse it.
- Accidental bumps: A broom, car bumper, or even a curious pet can move the sensors.
- Loose mounting brackets: Over time, vibration from door movement can cause the brackets to shift.
- Worn or damaged wiring: Weather, rodents, or age can cause wires to wear out or break.
All of these can lead to the sensor beam getting blocked or misaligned.
Understanding Sensor Light Indicators
Different garage door opener brands use different color indicators. Here’s a general idea:
- Solid green or amber light: Everything’s working.
- Blinking light: Something is off—either a misalignment or an obstruction.
- No light: Sensor may not have power or could be broken.
It’s a good idea to check the manual that came with your opener for specific light code meanings.
When to Replace Garage Door Sensors
If your sensors still don’t work after cleaning and realigning, it might be time to replace them. Sensors can wear out with age, or suffer internal damage from moisture, electrical surges, or impact.
Here are signs that it’s time for new ones:
- No lights at all, even after troubleshooting
- Physical damage to the casing or lens
- Sensor lights stay off despite power being restored
- Door works when you bypass sensors but not when they’re connected
Most garage door sensors are easy to replace with basic tools. Just make sure you get ones that are compatible with your opener brand.
Preventing Future Sensor Issues
You can save yourself some headaches by doing a few easy maintenance steps:
- Clean the sensor lenses monthly.
- Inspect the wiring for signs of wear.
- Keep the area around sensors clear.
- Make sure sensor brackets are tight.
Regular checks keep your garage door running smoothly and safely.
Replacement sensors typically range from $30 to $70 for a pair. If you’re buying name-brand sensors that match your opener, expect to stay on the higher end of that range. Universal sensor kits are also available, but make sure they’re compatible with your system before purchasing.
If you need professional help, installation could add another $75 to $150, depending on your location and the complexity of the job.
Garage door sensors can last anywhere from 7 to 15 years, depending on the brand, quality, and local conditions. Sensors exposed to direct sunlight, rain, or extreme cold may wear out faster.
Keeping them clean and aligned can help them last longer.
Safety First
Garage door sensors are all about keeping people and pets safe. If they’re not working right, it’s important to fix them fast.
Still not sure what’s wrong? Give us a call! At OHD Company Puget Sound, we’re here to help. Our expert team can diagnose, fix, or replace any part of your garage door system quickly and safely.
How to tell if a garage door sensor is bad?
Your garage door won’t close, the sensor lights blink or won’t turn on, or the door only works when you hold the wall button. If cleaning or adjusting doesn’t help, the sensor might be broken.
What does a garage door sensor do?
It keeps the door from closing on people, pets, or things by using a light beam to detect if something is in the way.
Can I replace garage door sensors myself?
Yes, you can! If you follow the steps and use the right parts, it’s a quick and easy job for most people.
How do I reset my garage door sensor?
Unplug the garage opener for about 30 seconds, then plug it back in. Realign the sensors and check that the lights are solid again.
Whether you’re adjusting your garage door sensors for the first time or replacing them entirely, staying on top of this small part of your garage system goes a long way toward keeping your home safe.
Need a hand? Call us today at (253) 400-3880 or contact the team at OHD Company Puget Sound. We’ll make sure your garage door sensors are aligned, secure, and doing their job right.
Ready to fix your garage door sensors? Call Now! We’re here to help you stay safe and save money with fast, friendly service.
OHD Company Puget Sound – Keeping Your Garage Door on Track!
