Automatic garage doors have been a valuable asset since they were invented. Nowadays, instead of having to use brutal force to get the heavy door open or closed, you can simply press a button and watch your garage door glides effortlessly in either direction. It can even be operated from a distance when you’re away and not at home with the help of remote WiFi technology.
Keeping your family safe is the most important and top priority for any homeowner, and automatic garage doors made it incredibly easy and convenient.
In order to further improve safety, safety devices were mandated for all garage doors in the 1990s. These devices ensured that accidents involving people being crushed beneath the weight of a closing garage door would be less likely to occur. These devices are known as garage door sensors.
Garage Door Sensors Are There to Keep You and Your Family Safe
Garage door safety sensors work like photo-receptors, keeping an ‘eye’ on any potential obstacles that come in their way. The sensors are linked together by a IR light beam that will stop the door from fully closing if the beam is broken – meaning that if something gets in its way, it won’t cause any harm. This is another layer of protectionת especially when there are kids or pets around the house who may accidentally go under a closing garage door.
Therefore, it is essential, and even crucial that these safety features remain functional at all times in order to prevent injury or damage from occurring. If you are experiencing problems such as your garage door is not closing despite there is no visible obstacles present, this could indicate either dirt and dust build-up on the sensors or misalignment between them due to loose screws or bent brackets. If this happens, you should first try cleaning them off with a soft cloth and adjust their alignment yourself. However if it still not closing it might be the wires that connect the sensors, and in that case it is wise to contact a professional technician who can assist with the repair.
