How To Identify and Fix a Misaligned Garage Door Safety Sensor
A misaligned garage door safety sensor can be frustrating, causing your garage door to stick, make noises, or even stop working altogether. The good news is that many alignment issues can be fixed without calling a garage door professional in and around Minneapolis.
Why Does My Garage Door Not Close When I Push The Button?
To figure out if the problem is with the garage door sensors, we recommend checking three quick things:
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Does the light on the opener motor blink when the door starts to reverse?
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Will the door fully close if you press and hold the wall button?
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Take a look at the safety sensors mounted on each side of the vertical track—do the small indicator lights on the back side turn on? These lights are typically green, yellow, or red depending on the brand.
If your answer to #1 or #2 is yes, chances are the sensors are either out of alignment or something’s blocking their view.
No lights on the sensors? That could mean the wiring is damaged or there's something obstructing the sensors completely.
How to Fix Garage Door Sensor Alignment
- Inspect the sensors – They’re usually mounted near the floor on either side of the door.
- Clean the lenses – Dust or spider webs can interfere with the beam.
- Align the sensors – Loosen the brackets, adjust the sensors so they face each other, and tighten them back.
- Test the door – Close the door using the wall button and see if the issue is resolved.
Safety Reversal Sensor Video
Preventing Future Problems
- Perform routine maintenance, including cleaning the tracks and lubricating moving parts.
- Check for loose bolts and tighten them as needed.
- Keep the area around the garage door clear to prevent objects from interfering with its movement.
A misaligned garage door doesn’t have to mean an expensive repair bill. With a little troubleshooting and some basic tools, you can often fix the problem yourself. Keep an eye on the signs, perform regular maintenance, and your garage door will keep working smoothly for years to come.
Ready to Tackle It Yourself?
Don’t let a noisy, stuck, or uneven garage door slow you down. With a few tools and the tips above, you can get your door rolling like new again—no pros required. Save time, skip the bill, and fix it yourself today!
When to Call a Professional
While many garage door alignment issues can be fixed with these DIY solutions, some problems require expert attention.
Call a pros at All American Door at (763) 244–1605 for same day garage door fixes in and around Minneapolis if:
- The tracks are severely bent or damaged.
- The springs or cables need replacing.
- You’ve tried these fixes and the door still won’t open or close correctly.
