The Hidden Dangers of Ignoring Misaligned Garage Door Safety Sensors

Your garage door’s safety sensors might not be something you think about often, but misaligned sensors can create big problems you don’t see coming. A misstep here can lead to risks that range from inconvenient to downright dangerous.

At Love Garage Doors, a trusted Wichita garage door company, we’ve seen firsthand how these issues can spiral if left unchecked. Misaligned sensors don’t just mess with how your door operates; they can strain your system, increase repair costs, and even jeopardize your safety.

It’s not just about keeping your door running smoothly; it’s about protecting your home, family, and wallet. Below, you’ll learn more about the hidden dangers of misaligned garage door safety sensors.

Obstructions Go Undetected

When garage door safety sensors are misaligned, there is a high possibility that certain obstructions can go unnoticed. These obstructions may include small objects such as toys or debris on the ground, which the sensors may not detect, and could get stuck under the garage door when it closes.

Small Objects Near Ground Level

When safety sensors in a garage door are misaligned, small objects near the ground, such as toys, tools, or hardware, can easily go unnoticed. The sensors are designed to emit and receive beams at a fixed height, so any misalignment may create gaps in their detection field.

Low-Profile Vehicles or Bicycles

Low-profile vehicles, such as sports cars or bicycles lying on their sides, can often fall below the compromised detection range of misaligned sensors. This lack of detection can damage property, as the garage door may close directly onto these expensive items. Such incidents highlight the importance of properly calibrating the sensors to recognize obstructions of varying heights.

Pets or Crawling Children

One of the most concerning risks of misaligned safety sensors is their inability to detect pets or young children near the ground. Unlike adults, pets and toddlers often occupy a lower vertical space that might fall outside the sensor’s improperly adjusted beam. This creates a dangerous scenario where the garage door could close without stopping, leading to injury or worse for those most vulnerable.

False Stops Waste Your Time 

When sensors are misaligned by even a tiny amount, they can mistake harmless objects for obstructions. This can cause your garage door to reverse unexpectedly, even when there’s nothing in the way. These false stops can disrupt your day, especially when you’re in a rush to leave or enter your garage. 

Our Wichita garage door company understands how frustrating this issue can be. That’s why we specialize in ensuring your garage door sensors are properly aligned and functioning as they should. We can save you time and hassle with expert maintenance and quick adjustments, giving you smooth and trouble-free operation every time. 

Damage to Garage Door Tracks

When your garage door’s sensors malfunction, the door may reverse more often than it should. This constant reversing can stress the tracks and motor each time it occurs. Tracks are designed to guide the door smoothly, but excessive strain makes them more likely to bend or misalign.

Bent or damaged tracks can interfere with the door’s movement and cause further problems. The rollers may get stuck or fail to glide properly, adding to the overall wear and tear on the system. This can also make the door noisy or prevent it from closing fully.

Regular maintenance can help prevent these issues before they get worse. Check the tracks for signs of bending or damage, and tighten loose bolts. Proper sensor alignment and regular inspections ensure your garage door operates safely and smoothly for years to come.

Poor Door Sealing Lets Weather and Pests Inside

When your garage door has poor sealing, gaps along the edges allow rainwater to seep inside. This excess moisture creates a damp environment, which can damage stored items and encourage mold growth. Protecting your belongings starts with properly sealing your garage door.

Poor sealing also allows rodents and insects to easily enter your garage. Mice, spiders, and other pests can quickly find shelter through small openings. These unwelcome guests may damage wiring, wood, or other materials stored in your space.

A poorly sealed door can also lead to energy inefficiency. Drafts and temperature leaks could make maintaining a comfortable temperature inside your home harder. Ensuring your garage door seals properly helps protect your garage and keeps unwanted elements outside where they belong.

Overworked Motor Due to Repeated Reversals

Constant reversals caused by sensor issues force the motor to exert more effort than necessary. This overuse can lead to overheating, premature burnout, and the eventual need for a motor replacement. The strain increases with each reversal, making even routine operations harder on the motor.

There are several specific ways this issue impacts motor performance and lifespan:

• Excessive Heat Build-Up: Motors generate heat during operation, and constant reversals create additional friction and energy usage. Without proper cooling, this heat can degrade internal components over time.
• Worn-Out Bearings and Components: Repeated sudden changes in direction wear out internal parts like bearings, brushes, or rotor components, requiring repairs earlier than usual.
• Higher Energy Consumption: The increased effort needed for constant reversals makes the motor draw more electricity, raising power costs and reducing the system’s overall efficiency.

Addressing these issues early is critical to extending the motor’s life. Love Garage Doors can help you identify these problems and provide solutions to keep your garage door opener running smoothly.

Electrical Shorts During Periods of High Humidity

Moisture buildup during humid weather can cause serious problems for garage door sensors. When dust and debris collect on the sensors, it creates a surface where moisture can gather. This buildup increases the chance of an electrical short, which can stop the sensors from working properly. If the sensors fail, the entire garage door opener system may stop functioning, leaving the door stuck.

Regular maintenance can prevent these issues and keep the system running smoothly. Cleaning the sensors with a soft, dry cloth removes dirt and debris, reducing the likelihood of moisture collecting. Checking for proper sensor alignment also helps the system stay in good condition. Simple upkeep can save you from costly repairs and ensure your garage door operates effectively, even during humid conditions.

Compromised Garage Door Security

Sensors that are not working correctly can cause the garage door to stay open or only close partway. This leaves your home vulnerable to unwanted visitors. A malfunctioning sensor can make it harder to secure your garage and protect your belongings.

Fixing faulty sensors quickly can help you avoid these risks and restore full security to your home. Look for signs like flashing lights on the sensor or a misaligned beam. Simple troubleshooting steps or a professional repair can fix the problem before it gets worse.

Maintaining your garage door system regularly makes a big difference. Clean the sensors and inspect the wiring to avoid future issues. Reliable sensors ensure your garage door closes completely and keeps your home secure.

Contact Our Wichita Garage Door Company For Help

Ignoring misaligned safety sensors isn’t just a small oversight; it’s a risk to your home and your loved ones. Love Garage Doors, your trusted Wichita garage door company, has the tools and expertise to fix these issues before they escalate into costly or dangerous problems. Don’t wait for a malfunction to catch you off guard; Contact us today and protect what matters most.

Key Takeaways

What happens if garage door safety sensors are misaligned?

Misaligned safety sensors may fail to detect obstructions like toys, tools, or pets near the ground. This can lead to serious damage or injuries if the door closes unexpectedly.

Can misaligned sensors cause a garage door to stop unnecessarily?

Yes, misaligned sensors can mistake harmless objects for obstructions, causing the door to reverse or stop unexpectedly. This can waste time and disrupt your routine, especially when you’re in a hurry.

How do misaligned sensors affect the garage door’s motor and tracks?

Misaligned sensors can cause repeated door reversals, putting extra strain on the motor and tracks. This can lead to overheating, bent tracks, and worn-out components that require costly repairs over time.

Can misaligned sensors impact garage security?

Yes, malfunctioning sensors may prevent the door from closing fully, leaving your home vulnerable to unwanted access. Fixing faulty sensors promptly ensures your garage door closes securely to protect your belongings.

Why do sensors fail during humid weather?

High humidity can cause dust and debris to collect on sensors, creating moisture buildup that leads to electrical shorts. Regular cleaning and alignment checks can help prevent these issues and keep the sensors functioning properly.