When your garage door suddenly refuses to close, the issue is often small but important—your safety sensors. These photo-eye sensors help prevent accidents by stopping the door when something blocks its path. But in Buffalo’s unpredictable weather, things like dirt, snow, or shifting foundations can cause them to malfunction. Thankfully, fixing most sensor problems doesn’t require special tools or technical skills. This guide will walk you through common issues and what you can do to restore safe, reliable operation—especially if you use a LiftMaster system.
How Garage Door Sensors Work
Every modern garage door includes two sensors—one on each side of the opening, just a few inches above the floor. They form an invisible beam across the door’s path. If something interrupts this beam, like a person, pet, or object, the door won’t close. This feature is there for safety—but when sensors get dirty or knocked out of alignment, it can prevent the door from closing even when nothing is in the way.
Common Sensor Problems in Buffalo
1. Misalignment
If the sensors don’t point directly at each other, the signal won’t connect. This often happens when one sensor is bumped or when shifting concrete causes brackets to move slightly out of position.
2. Dirt or Debris
Buffalo winters bring snow, salt, and mud. These can build up on sensor lenses and block the signal. Even a thin layer of dust or condensation can cause issues.
3. Loose Wires or Mounting
Temperature changes can make plastic and metal expand or contract. Over time, this can cause wires to come loose or mounting brackets to shift.
Simple Fixes to Try
Wipe the Lenses: Use a clean, dry cloth to gently wipe the face of each sensor. Don’t use harsh cleaners—just remove any snow, salt, or dirt. Do this regularly, especially after storms.
Check Sensor Alignment: Look at the lights on each sensor. If one is blinking or off, the sensors may not be facing each other correctly. Gently adjust the sensor brackets until both lights are solid and steady. Then test the door again.
Inspect the Wires: Follow the sensor wires from the bracket to where they connect to the opener or the wall. Make sure they aren’t pinched, hanging loose, or damaged. If anything looks off, secure it with electrical tape or call a technician for support.
For LiftMaster Owners
LiftMaster systems are built for smooth, safe operation, but they still rely on the sensors working properly. If you’ve cleaned the lenses and realigned the sensors but the door still won’t close, try the following:
- Double-check your opener’s travel and force settings. These affect how firmly the door closes and how quickly it reverses.
- Make sure the opener isn’t set too high for winter temperatures, which can cause it to misread resistance from seals or debris.
- Keep backup batteries charged in case power issues affect sensor function.
When to Call for Help
If you’ve tried cleaning, realigning, and checking wires but your door still won’t close, it may be time for a trained technician. Some problems—like damaged wiring inside the opener or faulty sensor hardware—require tools and experience to fix safely.
In a city like Buffalo, garage door sensors work extra hard through every season. Whether it’s snow blocking the beam or shifting foundations changing alignment, small problems can create big frustration. By cleaning, checking, and adjusting your sensors regularly, you keep your garage door safe, responsive, and ready for any weather. And if you’re using a LiftMaster system, taking the time to test and fine-tune its settings can keep everything running smoothly—even in the heart of winter.
Need help with a stubborn sensor or want a professional inspection before winter hits? Contact 716 Garage Door today for reliable, local support you can trust.
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