Garage door sensors are essential for the safe operation of your garage door, preventing it from closing on objects, vehicles, or people. At Express Door Repair, we specialize in providing garage door repair and installation services across the Lower Mainland of BC. One of the most common problems we encounter in both residential and commercial garage doors is a faulty garage door sensor. But how can you tell if you need to replace your garage door sensor?
In this blog, we’ll guide you through the key signs to watch out for and offer professional advice on what to do when your garage door sensor starts to fail.
What Does a Garage Door Sensor Do?
Garage door sensors, also known as safety eyes or photoelectric sensors, are mounted near the base of your garage door. They are designed to detect objects or obstructions in the door’s path, preventing accidents by sending a signal to stop or reverse the door if something is detected.
Signs Your Garage Door Sensor Might Be Failing
Garage Door Won’t Close Properly
One of the most obvious signs of a sensor problem is when your garage door won’t close. If the door starts closing but reverses immediately, the sensors might be detecting an obstruction that isn’t there. Misaligned or dirty sensors are often the cause of this issue, but if cleaning or realigning doesn’t help, a replacement may be necessary.
Flickering Sensor Lights
Each garage door sensor has an indicator light. If one or both lights are flickering or not turning on, it’s a sign that the sensors may be malfunctioning. This could be due to wiring issues, alignment problems, or even sensor damage.
Unresponsive Garage Door Opener
A malfunctioning sensor can cause your garage door opener to become unresponsive. If pressing the remote doesn’t close the door or you hear clicking sounds without any movement, it could be a sensor issue.
Slow Response Time
Garage door sensors should react instantly when an obstruction is detected. If you notice a delay in the garage door stopping or reversing, this could mean the sensors are starting to fail.
Physical Damage or Wear
Over time, garage door sensors can become damaged due to weather, accidents, or general wear and tear. Inspect the sensors regularly for any cracks, dents, or corrosion. If the sensor housing is damaged, replacement is usually the best option.
Troubleshooting Common Garage Door Sensor Issues
Before replacing your garage door sensors, here are a few troubleshooting steps you can try:
Clean the Sensors:
Dust, dirt, and cobwebs can obstruct the sensor’s signal. Gently wipe the lenses with a soft cloth to clear any debris.
Check Sensor Alignment:
Garage door sensors need to be perfectly aligned. If they are bumped or misaligned, they will prevent the door from closing. Adjust the sensors so that the indicator lights are solid, not flickering.
Check for Wiring Issues:
Inspect the wiring to ensure it’s not frayed or disconnected. Electrical issues can cause the sensors to malfunction.
When to Call a Professional
If troubleshooting doesn’t resolve the issue, it’s time to call a professional. At Express Door Repair, we provide expert garage door sensor replacement and repair services throughout the Lower Mainland of BC. We specialize in both commercial and residential garage doors, ensuring that your garage door system operates safely and efficiently.
Replacing a garage door sensor might seem like a simple task, but improper installation can lead to further issues or even damage to your garage door opener system. Our team is available 24/7 to ensure your garage door is working properly, and we offer fast, reliable service to keep your home or business secure.
Why You Shouldn't Ignore a Faulty Garage Door Sensor
Ignoring a malfunctioning garage door sensor can lead to safety hazards, including:
Increased Risk of Injury:
Without functioning sensors, your garage door won’t detect objects or people in its path, leading to accidents.
Damage to Your Property:
A garage door that closes unexpectedly can damage your vehicle or other belongings.
Security Issues:
A faulty sensor may prevent your garage door from closing completely, leaving your home or business vulnerable to break-ins.
Need Garage Door Sensor Replacement? Contact Us Today!
If you’re experiencing issues with your garage door sensor, don’t wait until it leads to more serious problems. At Express Door Repair, we are committed to providing high-quality garage door services, including sensor repair and replacement. Serving the Lower Mainland of BC, our team is available around the clock to ensure your garage door is safe and functioning properly.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our garage door repair and installation services!
