How to Properly Align Photo Eye Sensors

What Are Photo-Eye Sensors

Photo-eye sensors on a garage door(s) is a safety feature that stops the door from closing if the photo eye senses an obstruction in its pathway. This will prevent damage to vehicles, people, or pets in the path of the door.

How Photo-Eye Sensors Work

Photo-eye sensors are on each side of the garage door, typically about 6 inches above the ground. One of the sensors directs a beam towards the other, and if there’s an object interrupting that beam, the sensors prevent the garage door from closing. If they become misaligned, which happens more frequently than you’d think, your photo eye sensors will need some adjustments.

How To Align Sensors

1. Make sure there’s nothing obstructing the signal between the sensors. If there’s an item in the way, the sensors will not be able to communicate with one another.
2. Check the wires leading to the sensors, making sure they’re connected properly and aren’t damaged.
3. Make slight adjustments to your photo-eye sensors by hand until they’re realigned. Remember to be gentle when you’re making adjustments; the sensors are quite delicate. Adjust the sensor that is not lit, and once it’s in the correct position you should see the light back on. Your door should be working properly again once this is done.
4. If 1-3 does not get the sensors working properly, double-check to see if the units are dirty. Use a cloth to lightly wipe the lens of each sensor, removing any dirt or build-up.

Check Proper Operation

After making the necessary adjustments to your photo-eye sensors and ensuring that they’re clear of any obstructions and/or debris, try operating your door while checking for prompt, smooth operation. Your door should open and close as expected.

Next, test to ensure the sensors will stop the door from closing. As stated previously, this is a critical safety component, which could prevent serious injury. While the door is closing move a large object such as a trash can in front of the sensor. The door should immediately stop closing. If it does not, contact a garage door repair professional such as A1 Door Co.

If your door still refuses to function as expected, contact A1 Door Company to inspect your system and recommend repairs. We’ve been helping homeowners in Richmond, Virginia region such as Short Pump, VA with all their garage door needs for over 15 years.