Your garage door is more than just a functional part of your home—it’s a key entry point, a security feature, and a mechanism that can impact the safety of your entire household. Modern garage door systems are equipped with safety sensors, a feature that many homeowners might overlook but plays a critical role in preventing accidents and injuries.
In this blog, we’ll explore why garage door sensors are essential for keeping your family safe and how they work to protect your home.
What Are Garage Door Sensors?
Garage door sensors are small devices typically installed near the base of your garage door tracks. They use infrared light to create a “beam” across the width of the door opening. When this beam is interrupted—by a person, pet, or object—the garage door stops moving and reverses direction.
These sensors are a standard feature in modern garage door systems and are required by law in the United States under the Federal Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act.
How Garage Door Sensors Keep Your Family Safe
- Preventing Accidental Injuries
The most critical function of garage door sensors is to prevent the door from closing on a person or pet. This is a vital safety feature for families with young children or pets. Sensors ensure that even if someone accidentally triggers the garage door to close, it won’t harm anyone standing in its path. - Protecting Your Belongings
It’s not just people who benefit from sensors—your belongings do, too. Whether it’s a bicycle, a lawnmower, or a car, sensors prevent the door from closing on and damaging your valuables. - Enhanced Peace of Mind
Knowing that your garage door is equipped with sensors can give you peace of mind. Whether your kids are playing in the driveway or you’re rushing out of the house, you don’t have to worry about accidents caused by the garage door. - Compliance with Safety Standards
Garage door sensors ensure your system meets modern safety standards. Without them, you risk potential accidents and possible fines or issues when selling your home. - Improved Security
Some advanced garage door systems pair sensors with smart technology, allowing you to remotely monitor and control your garage door. This helps you ensure the door is securely closed when you’re not home, protecting your family and belongings from intruders.
Common Issues with Garage Door Sensors
While garage door sensors are highly reliable, they can encounter problems that may compromise their effectiveness:
- Misalignment: Sensors must face each other to work properly. A bump or vibration can knock them out of alignment.
- Dirt or Debris: Dust or dirt on the sensor lens can block the infrared beam.
- Wiring Issues: Loose or damaged wires can disrupt the sensor’s function.
- Sunlight Interference: Direct sunlight can sometimes confuse the sensor’s infrared beam.
If you notice that your garage door doesn’t reverse when the beam is interrupted, a professional must inspect the sensors.
Tips for Maintaining Your Garage Door Sensors
- Regular Cleaning
Use a soft cloth to wipe the sensor lenses and remove dirt or debris. - Check Alignment
Periodically check that the sensors are aligned and securely mounted. - Test the System
Place an object in the door’s path and try to close it. The sensors may need adjustment or repair if the door doesn’t reverse. - Schedule Professional Inspections
An annual inspection by a garage door technician ensures your sensors and the overall system are functioning correctly.
Precision Garage Door Repairs All Brands of Garage Door Sensors
Garage door sensors may seem like a small part of your overall garage door system, but their role in protecting your family cannot be overstated. By preventing accidents, ensuring compliance with safety standards, and enhancing home security, these sensors are an indispensable feature for any modern home. If you live in the Las Vegas area, you can depend on our licensed technicians for garage door sensor repair and replacement. We work with all brands of garage door sensors. Our fast response time means your peace of mind and safety will be restored quickly; live operators are available 24/7, and same-day service is available across The Valley. Quality of service is guaranteed, and we offer competitive pricing and free quotes. Call us today for a safety inspection or to schedule sensor repairs and upgrades!