How to Set a Garage Door Limit Switch to Start

Test your garage opener; the results will help you quickly make effective adjustments. Make a note of how the door behaves -- whether it reverses on the way up or down -- and locate the door remote for the opener.

Stand on a ladder beneath the motor head to access the limit switches. Usually located on the side of the motor, the dials often have an up or a down arrow icon printed above them. Do not confuse the limit dials with the force dials (see Tips).

Turn the dial marked with a down arrow counterclockwise -- with a screwdriver if necessary -- if the door does not reach the ground; turn it clockwise if the door reverses after touching the floor. Spin the dial marked with an up arrow clockwise if the door stops before it is fully open. Each complete turn of the dial represents about 5 inches of door travel added or removed.

Repeat Step 1 again using the remote; notice how the door behaves based on your changes and make any necessary adjustments. You might have to make several changes before the door movement is properly configured.