Garage door sensors play a critical role in ensuring your garage door operates safely. These sensors detect objects or obstacles in the path of the door and prevent it from closing if something is in the way. If your garage door isn’t closing properly, or if the sensor lights are blinking, it may be time to adjust your garage door sensors. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Understand the Garage Door Sensor Setup
Most garage door systems use two sensors: one located on the left side of the door frame and the other on the right. These sensors emit an invisible beam across the door’s opening. If something blocks the beam, the door will reverse its direction. Typically, one sensor will have a green light (indicating it’s receiving a signal), while the other will have a red or amber light.
Check the Alignment of the Sensors
Misalignment is one of the most common issues with garage door sensors. If the sensors are out of alignment, the door may not close properly, or the sensors may blink. Here’s how to fix it:
Locate the Sensors: Find the sensors on both sides of the garage door, near the floor. They should be aligned with each other and mounted at the same height.
Check for Obstructions: Ensure that there are no dirt, cobwebs, or other obstructions blocking the sensors. Even a small blockage can cause misalignment.
Adjust the Sensors: Using a screwdriver, gently loosen the screws on the sensor brackets to adjust their position. Align both sensors so that their infrared beams meet without obstruction.
Test the Alignment: Once the sensors are aligned, tighten the screws and test the system by attempting to close the door. The lights on the sensors should stay solid. If they blink, the sensors are still misaligned.
Clean the Sensor Lenses
Dirt or debris on the sensor lenses can interfere with the beam and cause the door to malfunction. To clean the sensors:
Turn Off the Power: Before cleaning the sensors, turn off the garage door opener to avoid any accidents.
Use a Soft Cloth: Gently wipe the sensor lenses with a clean, dry cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could scratch the lens.
Check for Dirt or Obstructions: After cleaning, ensure the area around the sensors is free of dirt or debris that might obstruct the beam.
Adjust the Sensor Sensitivity
Some garage door openers have an adjustable sensitivity feature, allowing you to fine-tune the sensors’ response to obstacles. If the sensitivity is too low, the door may fail to detect an obstruction and close on it. If it’s too high, the door might not close properly, even without any obstruction.
Locate the Sensitivity Control: The sensitivity adjustment screw is typically found on the garage door opener motor. Refer to your owner’s manual to locate it.
Adjust the Sensitivity: Using a small screwdriver, adjust the sensitivity control to the middle setting. Test the door’s operation after each adjustment.
Check the Wiring Connections
Loose or damaged wiring can cause the sensors to malfunction. If the sensors are aligned and clean but still not working, inspect the wiring for any visible damage or loose connections.
Turn Off the Power: For safety, disconnect the power supply to the garage door opener.
Inspect the Wires: Check the wires connecting the sensors to the opener for any frays, cuts, or signs of wear. If you notice any issues, repair or replace the damaged wire.
Reconnect the Wires: Ensure the wires are securely connected to the sensors and the opener.
Test the Sensors
Once you’ve made adjustments to the sensors, it’s important to test them to ensure they’re working properly:
Close the Door: Press the garage door opener button to close the door.
Test the Sensor’s Response: Place an object (such as a box or a broom) in the door’s path to see if the sensors detect it and stop the door from closing.
Observe the Sensor Lights: Both sensor lights should be solid when aligned and functioning properly. If they blink or flicker, there may still be an issue with the alignment, sensitivity, or wiring.
Replace Faulty Sensors (If Necessary)
If the sensors are still not functioning properly after adjustments, they may be damaged and require replacement. Contact a professional to replace the sensors if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself.
Faqs
Why are my garage door sensors blinking?
The blinking lights on your garage door sensors typically indicate an alignment issue or obstruction in the sensor’s beam. Ensure the sensors are aligned properly and check for any dirt or debris blocking the lenses.
How do I align my garage door sensors?
To align your garage door sensors, loosen the screws on their brackets and adjust them so they are facing each other directly. Make sure there are no obstructions between them and tighten the screws once they are properly aligned.
Can I adjust the sensitivity of my garage door sensors?
Yes, many garage door openers have a sensitivity control. You can adjust it by locating the sensitivity screw on the opener motor and tweaking it to ensure the sensors respond correctly to obstacles without being too sensitive.
Conclusion
Adjusting garage door sensors is a simple but essential task for maintaining the safety and functionality of your garage door. By ensuring the sensors are aligned, clean, and properly wired, you can prevent accidents and ensure your garage door operates smoothly. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with the adjustments, don’t hesitate to call a professional to help.
