Is your garage door acting up, refusing to close, or reversing unexpectedly? The culprit might be faulty garage door safety sensors. At Garage Door Repair Sunnyside, our skilled technicians are experts in diagnosing and repairing all types of garage door sensor problems. With our same-day service and commitment to fair prices, you can trust us to get your automatic garage back in working order quickly and efficiently.
Types of Garage Door Sensors
There are several types of garage door sensors, each designed to ensure the safe operation of your garage door:
Reed Switch Door Sensor
Reed switch door sensors consist of a magnet and a reed switch. The magnet is attached to the garage door, while the reed switch is mounted on the door frame. When the door is closed, the magnet aligns with the reed switch, creating a closed circuit. If the door is open, the circuit is broken, and the sensor communicates this to the opener. Reed switch sensors are ideal for detecting when the garage door is fully closed and are durable and long-lasting, as there are no moving parts. However, they are not suitable for detecting obstructions in the doorway.
Infrared Door Sensor (Photo Eyes)
Infrared door sensors, also known as photo eyes, use an infrared beam to detect obstructions in the doorway. They consist of two parts: an emitter and a receiver. The emitter sends an infrared beam across the doorway to the receiver. If an object breaks the beam, the receiver signals the opener to stop or reverse the door. Infrared sensors are required by law on all garage door openers manufactured after 1993 and are mounted on either side of the doorway, typically 4-6 inches above the ground. They ensure the safety of people and objects in the doorway but require proper alignment and clean lenses to function correctly. Infrared sensors are vulnerable to damage from moisture, dirt, and physical impact.
Rolling Switch Door Sensor
Rolling switch door sensors are mounted on the garage door track and consist of a switch and a lever or wheel that rolls along the track. When the door is fully closed, the lever or wheel presses against the switch, creating a closed circuit. If the door is open, the circuit is broken, and the sensor communicates this to the opener. Rolling switch sensors detect when the garage door is fully closed and are more compact and less visible than reed switch sensors. However, they can be prone to wear and tear due to moving parts and are not suitable for detecting obstructions in the doorway.
At Garage Door Repair Sunnyside, we work with trusted brands like Chamberlain, Genie, Liftmaster, Garage Stop, and Digi-Code to ensure your garage door sensors are repaired with quality parts.
Signs You Need Garage Door Sensor Repair
If you notice any of the following signs, it’s time to call a garage door expert for sensor repair:
- Your garage door won’t close or reverse immediately after closing
- The sensor lights are flickering or not lighting up at all
- The sensors are misaligned or have visible damage
- Your garage door opener motor is running, but the door isn’t moving
The Sensor Repair Process
Our skilled technicians follow a thorough process to diagnose and repair your garage door sensors:
- Inspection: We’ll check the sensor lenses, wires, and alignment to identify the problem.
- Cleaning: Using a soft cloth, we’ll gently clean the sensor lenses to remove any dirt or debris.
- Alignment: If needed, we’ll adjust the sensors to ensure they’re properly aligned.
- Wiring: We’ll inspect the sensor wires for any damage and repair or replace them as necessary.
- Testing: After repairs are complete, we’ll test your garage door to ensure it’s working safely and smoothly.
Troubleshooting Garage Door Sensors
If you’re experiencing garage door sensor problems, there are a few things you can try before calling a professional:
- Check for any obstructions in the doorway, such as a piece of cardboard or a toy
- Make sure the sensors are properly aligned and the lenses are clean
- Check the sensor wires for any visible damage or loose connections
- Test the power supply to ensure the sensors are receiving power
If these steps don’t resolve the issue, it’s time to call in a garage door repair expert.
Why Choose Us
At Garage Door Repair Sunnyside, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional service to our customers:
- Maximum 2-hour response time
- Same-day service available
- Open on weekends and holidays
- Experienced, skilled technicians
- Fair, transparent pricing
- Quality parts from trusted brands
Book your garage door sensor repair near you now by calling 503-573-8028 or visiting our website. Experience the peace of mind that comes with a properly functioning garage door and trust the experts at Garage Door Repair Sunnyside to get the job done right.
FAQs
How often should I have my garage door sensors inspected? We recommend having your garage door sensors inspected annually as part of your regular garage door maintenance.
Can I replace just one sensor if it’s damaged? For optimal performance and safety, it’s best to replace both sensors at the same time.
How long does sensor repair usually take? Most sensor repairs can be completed in under an hour, depending on the extent of the damage.
Will I need to replace my entire garage door opener if the sensors are faulty? In most cases, no. Faulty sensors can usually be repaired or replaced without needing to replace the entire opener.
Are garage door sensor repairs covered under warranty? It depends on the age of your garage door and the specific warranty terms. Our technicians can help you determine if your repairs are covered.