Garage doors are a convenient amenity that make our lives easier. However, in order to ensure that they are fully functioning and safe to operate, it is important to align the garage door sensors. In this tutorial, we will guide you through the proper steps to align those sensors so that you can keep your garage door operating smoothly.
Step 1 – Determine the Need for Alignment
The first step in aligning garage door sensors is to determine whether they need it or not. Various indicators can showcase an issue that needs correction. One of the most common indicators is the garage door not closing or opening properly, or if the door starts to reverse before fully closing. These are signs that the sensors may need realignment. In this case, you’re ready to proceed to step two.
However, in other cases, your garage door may be experiencing a more severe issue. Suppose you’ve noticed that the garage door is moving randomly, or the LED lights on your sensors are not functioning correctly. In that case, it is best to contact a professional garage door repair service to fix the issue for you.
Step 2 – Check Sensor Positioning
The next step in the process is making sure that the sensors are correctly positioned. Ensure they’re mounted at exactly the same height on both sides of the garage door. If they are slightly off, it will affect the sensor’s operation. After confirming the height alignment, ensure that the sensors are also accurately placed parallel to each other, making sure they directly face each other. Misalignment can cause issues, such as incorrect trip detection or even higher chances of breakage.
If you want to make sure the sensors are parallel to each other, get a long piece of string or wire and stretch them between the two sensors. The string or wire should pass directly through the sensor eyes. In case its off, adjust the sensors as required.
Step 3 – Clean the Sensors
After ensuring that the sensors are parallel and positioned correctly, the next step is cleaning them. Dirt, spider webs, and other debris can block the sensors, leading to inaccuracies. Dirt can accumulate, making the sensors unable to detect the signal accurately. Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe off the sensors to clean them properly.
If you notice that the debris or any obstruction is too significant to remove, use a soft brush. But, whatever you do, avoid using cleaners on the sensors or inside the sensor eyes as they can damage them.
Step 4 – Adjust the Sensors
After cleaning, check the sensor’s LED lights to see if they are working correctly, and then sight down the sensors to ensure they are pointing directly at each other. Move the sensor’s beam in a direction that can detect the signal by adjusting the sensors rotated one way slightly. If this doesn’t work, try moving them the other way.
Ensure the sensors are fastened correctly after any adjustment. A loose sensor can also fail to function properly, leading to inaccurate detection of signals signals, and that is not safe.
Step 5 – Test the Sensors
After completing the alignment process, you need to test the sensors by opening and closing the garage door. Confirm that the sensors can detect each other’s signals correctly. Make sure the garage door moves smoothly and checks that the door reaches the bottom without hesitation. If not, proceed to the next step.
If the door still reverses before closing or opening, contact a professional garage door repair service. If the door opens or closes smoothly, congratulations! You’ve successfully aligned your garage door sensors.
FAQs
Question 1: Can I Do The Alignment Myself?
Aligning garage door sensors is a relatively easy task that probably doesn’t require a professional’s help. It can be done within a short period. However, if you encounter any issues or the sensors can’t be aligned, you should immediately contact a professional garage repair service as incorrectly aligning the garage door sensors can be deadly.
Question 2: Are All Sensors the Same?
All sensors are not similar. They are uniquely made, and different brands have their system of manufacture. Therefore, it’s essential to read and adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations regarding each sensor’s programming and functionality.
Conclusion
Gladly, aligning your garage door sensors is not rocket science. It’s a quick, easy task that the average homeowner can accomplish by themselves. Properly aligning your sensors will ensure your garage door is not only operating smoothly; it also ensures it’s safe for you and your family. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines when installing, programming, and when it’s time for maintenance.
