Auto-Reverse Sensors: Protecting Your Family
December 28, 2023 7 min read
# Auto-Reverse Sensors: Protecting Your Family
Since 1993, federal law has required all garage door openers to include safety features that prevent the door from closing on people, pets, or objects. Understanding these systems can help keep your family safe.
How Auto-Reverse Sensors Work
Modern garage doors use two primary safety mechanisms:
1. Photo-Eye Sensors
These sensors are mounted about 6 inches above the floor on each side of the door. They create an invisible beam across the opening.
How they work: If anything breaks the beam while the door is closing, the door automatically stops and reverses.
What to look for: Most sensors have indicator lights. A steady light means they're aligned and working.
2. Pressure Sensors
Built into the opener motor, these detect resistance when the door encounters an obstacle.
How they work: If the door meets resistance while closing, it stops and reverses direction.
Sensitivity adjustment: Too sensitive and the door may reverse unnecessarily; not sensitive enough and it may not reverse when needed. Our opener services include proper calibration.
Testing Your Safety Features
The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends monthly testing:
Photo-Eye Test
1. Place an object (like a 2x4) in the door's path 2. Press the close button 3. The door should reverse before touching the object
Pressure Sensor Test
1. Hold a 2x4 flat on the floor under the door 2. Press the close button 3. When the door touches the wood, it should reverse
Force Test
1. While the door is closing, hold the bottom edge 2. Apply light upward pressure 3. The door should reverse
If any test fails, stop using the door and call a professional immediately. Contact our emergency service at +1 360 492 2937.
Common Sensor Problems
Misalignment
Sensors must be precisely aligned to work. Bumps, vibration, or accidental contact can knock them out of alignment.
Signs: Door reverses for no apparent reason, or lights blink on the sensors.
Fix: Gently adjust the sensors until both indicator lights are steady.
Dirty Lenses
Dust, cobwebs, or debris can block the sensor beam.
Fix: Clean lenses with a soft cloth.
Sun Interference
Direct sunlight can sometimes interfere with sensor operation.
Fix: Install sensor shades or reposition sensors slightly.
Wiring Issues
Damaged wires can cause intermittent problems. This is common in coastal areas like Ocean Shores and Westport where moisture can degrade wiring.
Signs: Inconsistent operation, especially in cold weather.
Fix: Call a professional for wire repair or replacement.
When Sensors Fail
If your safety sensors aren't working:
1. Don't use the automatic opener 2. Operate the door manually until repairs are made 3. Call a professional for diagnosis and repair
Upgrading Older Doors
If your opener was installed before 1993 or lacks modern safety features, consider upgrading. New openers include:
- Improved photo-eye sensors, Better pressure sensing, Battery backup, Smartphone connectivity, Enhanced encryption
Our new installation service includes the latest safety technology. Learn more about proper door maintenance to keep safety features working reliably.
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Concerned about your door's safety features? Call +1 360 492 2937 for a free safety inspection. Protecting your family is our priority.
Schedule an inspection or read our cable repair guide for more about keeping your garage door safe.