Aligning Garage Door Eyes

Photo Eye Sensors on Garage Doors: All you need to know
Photo eyes on your garage doors are an important safety feature. Since
1993, all garage door systems have been required to have this added
feature. Although they are an extra safety precaution, photo-eye sensors
can also be the cause for many garage door problems. It is, therefore,
crucial to understand the photo eye sensors and how exactly they work.

The primary role of photo-eye sensors is to ensure that nothing is blocking
the door’s path. Together with the auto-reverse mechanism, the photo eye
sensors make the garage doors safe and reliable. Without photo-eye sensors,
when one uses the remote to close the garage door, the door would close
regardless of whether or not there was someone or something in its path.

How do they work?
Photo-eye sensors are located on either side of your garage doors, about 6
inches from the ground. The sensors send out an invisible laser beam that
connects them. Should anything obstruct this beam so that the sensors are
not connected, the sensors signal the system to break the circuit. The
garage door will, therefore, not close.

How do I know they are broken?
Unfortunately, photo-eye sensors can easily break down. In case you notice
one or both sensors are not working well, you need to get them fixed in the
shortest time. Garage doors can cause serious injuries, especially if the
sensors aren’t working.
Here are a few telltale signs that your sensors are not in good working
condition.

A blinking light on one of the sensors, or even on your garage door opener.
The garage door opens with no problem but refuses to close.
You begin to operate the door but it reverses on its own. For example, you
may summon to open the door, but it only opens partly and then closes on
its own.

Before calling a garage door company to take a look at your sensors, you
can do so yourself. Try clearing out anything in the garage that may be
obstructing the laser beam. You may also try adjusting the sensors,
although be careful not to use too much pressure as you can break them. At
times, sunlight can affect how the sensors work. If direct sunlight is
hitting the sensors, try getting some shades to block it.

How do I maintain the photo eye sensors?
To save yourself the trouble of repairing and replacing the sensors, a
simple maintenance routine can help. But, first, consider hiring a garage door repair company.

Here are a few tips that will help you
maintain the sensors in perfect working condition.
Use a soft, damp cloth to gently wipe the sensors, while being careful not
to move them out of place.
Ensure that all debris is removed from around the area with the photo eye
sensors.
Occasionally check the wiring to ensure that neither has come loose.
Make sure kids do not play with the garage door system. They could tamper
with a lot causing the sensors not to work.
Once you are done cleaning, test the door to ensure it is working properly.