How to Check if Garage Door Sensors Are Working

Garage door openers have several safety features built in. These features need to be tested from time to time to make sure they properly operate. Malfunctioning safety features may put a homeowner and family in danger. In some cases, older garage door openers may not have these features. Testing reveals these problems.

Block of wood

Instructions

- 1
  Check the safety eye. Garage doors with openers commonly have devices mounted on each side of the opening about 6 inches off the floor. These units project infrared light across the opening. If this light beam is broken while the door is closing, the door should reverse and return to the open position. Hold a hand in front of one of the sensors while the door is closing to test it.
- 2
  Grab the door as it closes and try to hold it. The door should reverse and return to the open position if it encounters resistance while closing. Check the owner’s manual for any adjustments to the tension required to stop the door.
- 3
  Place a block of wood on the floor at the point where the door will close. If the door strikes the object, it should reverse and return to the open position.

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