Automatic garage door systems feature springs, cables, safety sensors, and other components that keep them functional and accident-free. All automatic overhead doors created after 1993 are required to include sensors to maintain safety. Learn what makes the safety sensor so essential to your door’s operation, as well as tips for keeping the part in excellent condition.

What You Need to Know About Garage Door Safety Sensors

The Importance of Safety Sensors

The sensors feature two photoelectric eyes that “speak” to one another from opposite sides of the door via infrared beams. If items such as boxes, pieces of lawn equipment, vehicles, people, or animals get in the way of the beam while the door is attempting to open or close, the door automatically reverses. The ability to reverse upon beam disruption prevents injury to humans and pets, vehicular damage, or harm to equipment like tools and bikes.

Overhead doors are heavy, especially if one of their springs or cables breaks. Safety sensors detect abnormalities to keep the door from causing serious injuries and damages.

Maintenance Tips

Maintain your safety sensors with periodic tests that ensure they’re working. Try placing an empty box or another valueless item in the overhead door’s path. If you try closing the door, but it automatically reverses, the sensors are functional.

If the door does not reverse, check the sensors for obstructions that impair the sensors’ communication ability. Wipe the sensors clean of dust and debris with a slightly damp paper towel and recheck their function. If they’re still not working correctly, inspect the screws that keep the brackets in place. They may need tightening to avoid alignment problems.

If you continue to experience safety sensor issues, contact your local garage door repair service to determine whether the parts need replacing.

Keep your garage door in outstanding condition with services from Fred C. Johnson Co. They offer residential and commercial services to clients throughout Jessup, MD, and have been in business since 1964. This family-owned company features a showroom with all the top overhead door brands, including LiftMaster®, Clopay, and C.H.I. Overhead Doors. To request a repair or learn more about products and services, call (410) 792-2126. Visit Yelp for the latest reviews.