Safety Sensor Repair & Alignment
Safety Sensor Repair & Alignment
Safety sensors, photo-eyes, are a pair of units that send an invisible beam across the door opening. If the beam is broken, the door won’t close or reverse. These small but essential devices are part of your door’s safety system. When it malfunctions, the opener prevents the door from closing to prevent accidents or damage.
On time and professional. The team was very up front as to what went wrong with the spring, gave me an estimate and were up front in letting me know that they might have to order the part but would make sure the garage would close. Either way, it took them an hour to replace the spring and without being pushy or overbearing told me some of the issues that might arise with the type of garage door I had (original builders). The guys saved me from a headache and I would recommend this company any time.
Jose L
Whether your sensors are dirty, misaligned, or completely unresponsive, we will identify the common issues and take steps to get them functioning again. Garage door safety sensors use a beam of invisible light to connect two photo eyes, sensors. If an object, like a toy, pet, or person, breaks this beam, the door stops and reverses automatically.
The two sensors have specific roles:
- Sending Sensor: Usually has an amber or orange light that stays on to show it has power.
- Receiving Sensor: Has a green light. This light flickers or turns off when the beam is blocked or the sensors are misaligned
Test your safety sensors by performing a block test. Place a solid object, like a roll of paper towels or a block of wood, in the middle of the doorway. Press the close button. If the sensors are working, the door will stop, reverse, and the garage lights will flash.
A Quick Checklist to Diagnose & Fix the Most Common Sensor Problems:
Check the Indicator Lights: Each sensor has a small LED light. Solid, steady lights mean the sensors are working. A blinking light or no light at all usually indicates a problem.
Look at the Alignment: The invisible beam must link the two sensors. Loosen the wingnut on the bracket and carefully adjust the sensor until both lights turn solid.
Clean the Lenses: Dust, dirt, cobwebs, and moisture can block the infrared beam. Gently wipe both lenses with a clean, dry microfiber cloth.
Inspect the Wires: Trace the thin wires running along the wall to the ceiling motor. Look for any cuts, frays, or loose staples that might be breaking the circuit.
Sunlight Interference
Bright sunlight hitting the sensor lens can interfere with the infrared beam.
Temporary failure: Try shading the sensor or waiting until the sun moves.
Permanent fix: Reposition the sensors slightly or use sensor hoods.
Faulty Sensors
Over time, sensors can fail internally, especially when exposed to harsh weather conditions.
One light always off: May indicate a sensor is no longer functioning.
Age of system: Sensors typically last 10 to 15 years.
VERY impressed with these guys. Very professional. Very courteous. Honest dudes with integrity. I used a bigger, nationwide outfit (that has a letter and a number as part of its business name) and overpaid for the service several years ago. When the garage door was damaged, I called them back out and they said that the door needed to be replaced and that I needed new tracks and a new opener. The price was going to be nearly $6,500.
Over The Top dudes came out and said they could replace the damaged panels (x2), service our door, and install the best opener made for less than a third of what the other outfit wanted. When it came to the day of service, the two owners and a helper showed up, and they were gone within 90 minutes. They answered all of my questions, the work was done correctly, and they saved me several thousand dollars. I’ll be calling you guys again.
T. Bone
Contact Us To Schedule Service or Request an Estimate.
Call us Today at (505) 450-9456
or Send us an Email
Albuquerque Over The Top Garage Doors – Albuquerque, NM 87114
Contractor’s License – NM GS14 # 391674
Call us Today at (505) 450-9456
or Send us an Email
OTTGD – Albuquerque, NM 87114
Contractor’s License – NM GS14 # 391674