Your garage door is one of the most frequently used entrances in your home—but behind its smooth operation is a small component with a big responsibility: the garage door sensor.
Garage door sensors are essential safety devices that prevent the door from closing on people, pets, or objects. If your garage door is reversing unexpectedly or refusing to close at all, there’s a good chance your sensors are to blame.
In this guide, we’ll explain:
- What garage door sensors are
- How they work
- How to test and troubleshoot them
- And when to call a garage door repair expert
If you’re in Lockport, Buffalo, Amherst, Clarence, or nearby WNY areas, the team at R&R Door offers fast, same-day service and expert garage door sensor repairs.
What Are Garage Door Sensors?
Garage door sensors are small safety devices installed on either side of your garage door, just a few inches from the ground. They create an invisible beam across the opening. If anything crosses that beam while the door is closing, the system sends a signal to reverse the door immediately—helping prevent injury or damage.
A Quick History of Overhead Door Innovation
Before the early ‘90s, garage doors operated without automatic reversal systems, leading to tragic accidents. In response, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission mandated that all residential garage door openers manufactured after January 1, 1993, must include safety reversing systems — such as sensors. This regulation has since saved countless lives and is a foundational piece of modern garage door safety.
How Do Garage Door Sensors Work?
The sensors come in pairs:
- One side emits an infrared beam
- The other receives the beam
When that beam is uninterrupted, your garage door operates normally. But if something—like a bike, pet, or child—passes through the path, the beam is blocked. This triggers the door to reverse instantly.
If your sensors are dirty, misaligned, or disconnected, your door might refuse to close or behave unpredictably. That’s why keeping them in good condition is a key part of garage door maintenance.
How to Test Your Garage Door Sensors
Testing your safety sensors is quick and easy. Here’s how:
- Close the garage door using your remote or wall button.
- As the door begins to close, wave an object (like a broom or cardboard box) in front of the sensors.
- If the sensors are working properly, the door should stop and reverse immediately. We provide a full breakdown if garage door sensors are not working.
If the door continues to close, your sensors may be malfunctioning—and it’s time for a closer look.
Common Garage Door Sensor Problems & How to Fix Them
1. Misalignment
If one sensor is out of line, the system won’t work. You might see a blinking light on one side. Gently adjust the sensors until both lights are steady.
2. Dirty Lenses
Dust, cobwebs, and debris can block the beam. Use a soft, dry cloth to clean both lenses and restore visibility.
3. Obstructions
Make sure nothing is physically blocking the sensors—like toys, rakes, leaves, or storage bins.
4. Wiring Issues
Loose, frayed, or disconnected wires can prevent sensors from communicating with the opener. Inspect the wiring if you’re comfortable, but leave repairs to a professional.
When to Call a Garage Door Company for Sensor Repairs
Some sensor issues go beyond DIY troubleshooting. Call a professional if:
- The door reverses even when the path is clear
- The sensor lights are completely off
- Your garage door still won’t close after cleaning and realigning the sensors
- The sensors look cracked, broken, or loose
- Your overhead door system is generally unreliable
Our trained technicians have the tools and experience to test your sensors, repair or replace faulty components, to ensure everything is working safely. If needed, we can even recommend an upgrade to your garage door opener for better long-term reliability.
Local Garage Door Sensor Repairs in Buffalo & Lockport, NY
Whether your sensors need cleaning, adjustment, or replacement, R&R Door is your trusted local team. We proudly serve:
- Lockport, NY
- Buffalo, NY
- Amherst
- Clarence
- North Tonawanda
- Lancaster and surrounding towns
We offer:
✅ Same-day garage door repairs
✅ Friendly, experienced technicians
✅ Honest, upfront pricing
✅ Service for all brands and models
Need Help with Your Garage Door Sensors?
Don’t let a faulty sensor leave your garage door stuck open or closed. Call R&R Door for fast, affordable garage door sensor repairs in the Lockport and Buffalo areas. Request a free estimate, Or contact us today to schedule a same-day service!
Related Blog Posts:
Top 5 Raynor Garage Door Openers for Your Home