Garage door sensors are a critical safety feature in any automatic garage door system, especially in bustling Seattle neighborhoods. They prevent the door from closing if an object or person is in the way. Over time, these sensors may become misaligned, causing the garage door to malfunction. This article offers a simple, easy-to-follow guide on how to align garage door sensors, ensuring the safety and functionality of your garage door. At the end, we’ll introduce you to CHS Garage Repair of Seattle, your trusted partner in garage door maintenance.
Understanding Garage Door Sensors
Garage door sensors are usually located at the bottom of the door tracks, about six inches above the ground. They work by sending an invisible beam across the door’s path. If this beam is interrupted, the door won’t close. Proper alignment of these sensors is crucial for them to function correctly.
Signs of Misaligned Sensors
Before adjusting your sensors, it’s important to identify signs of misalignment:
- Garage door reverses: If your door opens but reverses when you try to close it, it could be a sensor issue.
- Flashing lights: Most sensors have lights that flash when they are not aligned properly.
- Door won’t close: If the door doesn’t close at all, it’s a clear sign that the sensors may be misaligned.
Steps to Align Garage Door Sensors
- Safety First: Disconnect the power to your garage door opener to prevent accidental operation while you work.
- Locate the Sensors: Find the two sensors at the bottom of the door tracks.
- Loosen the Sensors: Gently loosen the screws or wingnuts that hold the sensors in place, but do not remove them.
- Adjust the Sensors: Align the sensors so they are facing each other directly across the door opening.
- Check the Lights: Most sensors have indicator lights. Aim to get a steady light, which indicates proper alignment.
- Tighten the Sensors: Once aligned, tighten the screws or wingnuts to secure the sensors in place.
- Test the Door: Reconnect the power and test the door to ensure it closes properly and the sensors are working.
Enhancing Sensor Longevity Through Preventative Measures
To augment the longevity of garage door sensors, preventative maintenance is indispensable. Regularly inspecting the alignment, cleaning the sensor lenses to remove any accumulated debris, and ensuring there are no obstructions in their line of sight can significantly mitigate the risk of malfunction.
Table: Troubleshooting Common Sensor Problems
| Problem | Solution |
| Sensors not aligned | Adjust position until lights steady |
| Lights keep blinking | Check for obstructions or dirt |
| Door still not closing | Recheck alignment, ensure no damage |
Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is key to ensuring your garage door sensors function properly. This includes cleaning the lenses and checking for any obstructions. Also, make sure there are no loose wires.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’ve tried aligning your sensors and the door still doesn’t function properly, it might be time to call in the professionals. Sometimes, sensor issues can indicate a bigger problem with the garage door system.
Experience the Best with CHS Garage Repair Of Seattle
We specialize in all aspects of garage door maintenance and repair. Our team of experienced professionals understands the importance of a fully functional garage door system. We’re here to provide expert services, from sensor alignment to complete door overhauls, ensuring your garage door operates smoothly and safely.
The Last Word
Aligning your garage door sensors is a simple yet crucial task that can be done with minimal tools and effort. Regular maintenance and timely adjustments can prevent many common garage door issues. For any garage door repair or maintenance needs, remember that CHS Garage Repair of Seattle is just a call away, ready to provide top-notch service.
