Auto-Reverse Sensors: Protecting Your Family

2023-12-28 5 min read

Your Garage Door's Guardian Angels

Every year, garage doors cause thousands of injuries in the United States. Auto-reverse sensors are designed to prevent the most serious of these incidents.

At Garage Door China Grove, safety is our top priority. We ensure every installation and repair meets the highest safety standards.

How Auto-Reverse Sensors Work

Photo-Eye System Two sensors mounted 4-6 inches above the floor on either side of the door create an invisible beam. When this beam is broken, the door immediately stops and reverses.

Pressure Sensitivity The door also responds to physical contact. If it touches an object while closing, it reverses direction.

Testing Your Sensors

Monthly Photo-Eye Test 1. Open the garage door 2. Place an object (like a box) in the door's path 3. Press the close button 4. The door should reverse before touching the object

Pressure Reverse Test 1. Open the door 2. Place a 2x4 flat on the ground in the door's path 3. Press close 4. When the door touches the wood, it should reverse

If either test fails, contact us immediately for service.

Common Sensor Problems

Misalignment Symptoms: Door won't close, lights flash Solution: Adjust sensors until indicator lights are solid

Dirty Lenses Symptoms: Intermittent operation Solution: Clean with soft cloth

Wiring Issues Symptoms: No power to sensors Solution: Check connections, call professional

Sun Interference Symptoms: Problems only at certain times Solution: Install sun shields

When Sensors Fail

If your sensors aren't working:

1. Don't bypass them - This creates serious safety hazards 2. Use manual mode carefully until repaired 3. Call a professional - Sensor issues often indicate other problems

Our technicians offer same-day repair service for safety-related issues.

Legal Requirements

Since 1993, all garage door openers must include: - Auto-reverse mechanism, External entrapment protection (photo-eyes)

Using a pre-1993 opener without these features is not only dangerous but may affect your homeowner's insurance.

Upgrading Old Systems

If your opener lacks modern safety features, it's time to upgrade. Modern openers are more: - Secure (rolling codes) - Convenient (smart features) - Safe (multiple redundant systems)

Check out our feature guide to learn about the latest opener technology.

Don't gamble with your family's safety. Contact us today for a safety inspection. We serve China Grove, Concord, Mooresville, and all surrounding areas.

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