Bedford Gates & Garage Doors safety sensors play a crucial role in preventing accidents and ensuring the safe operation of your garage door. These sensors use infrared beams to detect obstacles and people in the door’s path, causing the door to reverse if an obstruction is detected. Regularly checking and maintaining these sensors is essential for the safety of your family and property.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to check your garage door safety sensors:

Materials You’ll Need:

  • Broom or similar object
  • Soft cloth
  • Cleaning solution (if needed)
  • Level (optional)
  • Tape measure (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Understand the Sensor Setup:

Garage door safety sensors are usually located on either side of the door, a few inches above the ground. They consist of a sending sensor and a receiving sensor. The sending sensor emits an infrared beam, which is received by the opposite sensor. If the beam is interrupted by an obstacle, the door will stop and reverse.

2. Visual Inspection:

  • Start by visually inspecting both safety sensors. Ensure they are properly mounted and aligned, and that there are no visible signs of damage or misalignment.
  • Check for any obstructions that may be blocking the sensors’ path, such as dirt, spider webs, or debris. Clean the sensors if needed using a soft cloth and a gentle cleaning solution.

3. Sensor Alignment:

  • The sensors must be properly aligned to function correctly. Check the alignment by looking at the indicator lights on each sensor. Most sensors have LED lights that indicate their status.
  • If the sensors are properly aligned, both indicator lights should be solid and not blinking. Blinking lights indicate misalignment or an issue.

4. Sensor Adjustment:

  • If the indicator lights are blinking, the sensors are likely misaligned. Gently adjust the sensors until both indicator lights are solid. Use a level or tape measure to ensure they are at the same height.
  • Some sensors have adjustment screws that allow you to fine-tune their alignment. Consult your garage door opener’s manual for specific instructions on adjusting the sensors.

5. Test the Sensors:

  • Close the garage door using the remote control or wall-mounted button.
  • Place an object, such as a broom, in the path of the door where it would cross the sensor’s beam.
  • Use the remote control or wall-mounted button to try to close the garage door. The door should not close if the sensors are working properly.
  • If the door reverses or doesn’t close, it indicates that the safety sensors are functioning correctly and detecting the obstacle.

6. Final Checks:

  • Remove the object from the door’s path.
  • Test the garage door’s downward motion without any obstructions to ensure it closes smoothly.

7. Regular Maintenance:

  • Regularly clean the sensors to prevent dust, dirt, and debris from interfering with their operation.
  • Check the alignment of the sensors every few months to ensure they remain properly positioned.

8. Seek Professional Help (If Necessary):

  • If you encounter persistent issues with your garage door safety sensors or if you’re unsure about their functionality, it’s recommended to seek help from a professional garage door technician. They can diagnose and resolve any complex problems.

Conclusion:

Checking your Bedford Gates & Garage Doors safety sensors is a crucial part of ensuring the safe operation of your garage door. By regularly inspecting, cleaning, aligning, and testing the sensors, you can prevent accidents and maintain the proper functioning of your garage door’s safety mechanism. If you encounter any issues that you’re unable to resolve, don’t hesitate to consult a professional for assistance.

Bedford Gates & Garage Doors

2201 Harwood Rd, Bedford, TX 76021, United States

1-817-886-3064