How To Align Garage Door Sensor? Step-by-step Guide

Introduction

Garage door sensors play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and proper functioning of your garage door. These sensors prevent the door from closing if there is an obstruction in its path, thus avoiding accidents and damage. However, over time, these sensors can become misaligned, leading to issues with your garage door’s operation. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the steps to align your garage door sensors and keep your garage safe and functional.

Understanding Garage Door Sensors

Before we dive into the alignment process, it’s essential to understand the basic components and functioning of garage door sensors. Most modern garage door systems use two types of sensors:

Photoelectric Sensors: These sensors consist of two parts – a transmitter and a receiver. They are usually installed on either side of the garage door, near the floor. The transmitter emits an invisible beam of light towards the receiver. If this beam is interrupted by an object or obstruction, the sensors signal the garage door opener to stop or reverse its operation.

Infrared Sensors: Infrared sensors work on a similar principle but use an infrared beam instead of visible light. They are also installed on either side of the door, a few inches above the ground.

Misalignment Issues

Common problems arising from misaligned garage door sensors include:

• The garage door reverses immediately after closing or doesn’t close at all.
• The door only closes partially and then reverses.
• The opener’s light blinks continuously, indicating an issue with the sensors.

Now that you understand the basics let’s proceed with aligning your garage door sensors.

Tools You’ll Need:

• A ladder
• A tape measure
• A screwdriver
• A wrench or pliers
• A level

Step 1: Safety First

Before attempting to align your garage door sensors, make sure to unplug the garage door opener from the power source. This will prevent any accidental door movements during the alignment process.

Step 2: Identify Sensor Placement

Locate the sensors on either side of your garage door, typically near the ground and slightly above it. Ensure that there are no obstructions in the path between the sensors. Common obstructions include debris, spider webs, or even misaligned sensor brackets.

Step 3: Check Sensor Alignment

Inspect the alignment of the sensors. They should be perfectly parallel to each other and not tilted in any direction. Use a level to ensure they are straight.

Step 4: Adjust Sensor Brackets

If the sensors are misaligned, you may need to adjust their brackets. Loosen the screws holding the sensor brackets in place. Gently move the sensor until it is aligned with the opposite sensor. Use a tape measure to make precise adjustments. Once aligned, tighten the screws to secure the brackets in place.

Step 5: Verify Sensor Height

Ensure that both sensors are at the same height from the ground. Measure the distance from the ground to the bottom of each sensor. Adjust the sensors as needed to match the same height.

Step 6: Test the Alignment

Now that you’ve aligned the sensors, it’s time to test their functionality. Plug the garage door opener back into the power source and test the door by closing and opening it. If the sensors are correctly aligned, the door should close smoothly without any issues.

Step 7: Final Checks

After testing, double-check the alignment to ensure it hasn’t shifted during the test. Make any necessary adjustments and tighten the brackets securely. Remove any debris or spider webs that may accumulate on the sensors.

Conclusion

Properly aligned garage door sensors are essential for the safety and functionality of your garage door. Regularly inspect and align these sensors to ensure they work correctly. By following the steps outlined in this guide and taking the time to maintain your garage door sensors, you can enjoy a safe and hassle-free garage door operation for years to come. Remember that safety should always be a priority when working on garage door components, so exercise caution and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

A1 Garage Doors is providing maintenance and installation services related to garage doors and their parts. If you’re looking for a trustworthy service by skilled technicians you can count on, give us a call at 343-309-9964 for a free quote.