Garage Door Sensor Alignment

Garage door photo eye sensors are critical safety features required on all garage door openers manufactured since 1993. These sensors create an invisible beam across your garage door opening. If anything breaks this beam while the door is closing, the door immediately reverses, preventing accidents and injuries.

Sensors must be precisely aligned to function correctly. They're mounted on either side of your garage door opening, typically 4-6 inches above the floor, and must face each other directly. Even slight misalignment prevents the beam from connecting, causing your door to malfunction. When sensors aren't aligned, your garage door's most important safety feature isn't working—putting your family and pets at risk.

Many Portland homeowners don't realize their sensors are misaligned until their door won't close or operates erratically. Don't ignore sensor problems—they indicate your safety system isn't working correctly. Professional sensor alignment ensures your garage door operates safely and reliably, providing peace of mind that your family is protected.

We begin sensor service by testing current sensor function. We check indicator lights, test the beam by interrupting it during door operation, and verify the door reverses immediately when the beam is broken. We inspect sensor mounting brackets for looseness or damage and examine wiring for problems.

We clean sensor lenses—dirt, spider webs, or moisture can block the beam even when sensors are aligned. We adjust sensor position for precise alignment, ensuring both sensors face each other directly and the beam connects properly. We tighten mounting brackets to prevent future misalignment from vibration.

We test thoroughly after alignment, verifying indicator lights show proper connection and the door reverses immediately when we interrupt the beam. We check operation from various positions to ensure consistent function. If sensors are damaged or malfunctioning beyond alignment issues, we recommend replacement and can install new sensors immediately if you approve.

Prevent sensor misalignment by being careful around sensor areas—avoid bumping sensors with vehicles, lawn equipment, or other objects. Keep sensor lenses clean and free of spider webs, especially common in Portland garages. Test sensors monthly by placing an object in the door's path while closing—the door should reverse immediately.

If you notice sensor lights blinking or door operation changes, check alignment immediately. Don't ignore sensor problems or try to bypass them—sensors are critical safety features that protect your family. If DIY alignment doesn't resolve issues, call for professional service. We have the expertise and tools to diagnose and fix sensor problems quickly, restoring safe operation to your garage door.