How to Tell When Your Garage Door Sensor Is Failing: A Key to Your Family’s Safety
When it comes to home safety, the garage door is often an overlooked component. Yet, it plays a critical role in protecting both your property and your family. One essential part of your garage door system that helps ensure safe operation is the garage door sensor. These sensors prevent the door from closing if an object or person is in the way, reducing the risk of accidents. But when these sensors malfunction, they can cause a variety of issues. This is why it’s crucial to keep your sensors in good working condition. Here are some signs that your garage door sensor may be failing and how to address them.
Signs Your Garage Door Sensor Is Not Working
The Garage Door Won't Close Properly If your garage door refuses to close, despite there being no visible obstruction, this could indicate a sensor issue. A common symptom is the door opening but failing to close completely, or even starting to close and then reversing before hitting the ground. If this happens, the first step is to perform a simple test known as the cardboard box test. Place two cardboard boxes, each about six inches tall, directly under the garage door’s path. If the door continues to descend and hits the boxes, it confirms that the sensors need attention.
The Sensor Lights Are Off or Blinking Most garage door sensors have indicator lights: a steady green light usually means everything is functioning properly, while a blinking or unlit sensor indicates a problem. If one light blinks while the other remains steady, it may mean the sensors are misaligned. Sunlight can also interfere with the sensors, causing issues in their functionality. Installing sun shields for your sensors can help minimize this problem.
What Causes Garage Door Sensors to Stop Working?
Dirt or Debris Blocking the Sensor Over time, dust, dirt, and moisture can accumulate on the lenses of your sensors, obstructing the infrared beams and causing the system to malfunction. To prevent this, regularly clean the sensor lenses with a soft cloth. Be mindful of humidity, sprinklers, and extreme temperatures, which can freeze the sensors and render them useless.
Damaged Wiring Another common issue is damaged or frayed wiring. This can happen due to normal wear and tear, or physical damage to the wires. Check the wiring for any visible damage, and if needed, replace the damaged sections. If you're not comfortable with electrical work, it’s best to call a professional to ensure everything is reconnected properly.
Professional Garage Door Repair
Maintaining your garage door sensor is essential for the safety of your home and family. If you notice any of the signs mentioned above, it’s best to have your sensors inspected and repaired by a professional. At Fixxed Garage Doors, our expert technicians specialize in garage door repairs, including safety sensor installation and replacement. Contact us at (323) 364-6764 to schedule an appointment or learn more about how we can ensure your garage door remains safe and functional.
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