Garage doors are a common and convenient feature of many homes, allowing easy access to our vehicles and storage areas. While they offer practicality and security, it’s essential to remember that garage doors can pose safety risks. This is especially true when they close unexpectedly. This is where garage door safety sensors come into play. The unsung hero of your garage door safety.
Sensors are Essentially Using an Invisible Beam of Light
Garage door safety sensors, also known as photoelectric sensors, are installed near the base of the garage door on both sides. They work as a team, with one sensor transmitting an invisible beam of light, and the other receiving it. When an object, such as a person or a pet, obstructs this beam while the door is closing, the sensor detects the interruption. It then sends a signal to the garage door opener to stop and reverse the door’s movement.
The key principle behind these sensors is to prevent accidents, particularly when a person or object is in the path of the closing door. They act as a crucial safety mechanism, ensuring that the garage door won’t close on anything in its way.
They can also be obstructed over time due to their very nature. They’re a beam of light being detected by the partner sensor. If this gets covered or can’t transmit its beam due to a mechanical failure or dirt, your garage door won’t open. The sensor will be repeatedly tripped and tell the overhead door to close every time it tries to open.
Why Garage Door Safety Sensors Are Essential
- Garage doors can be quite heavy, and an accidental closing could lead to serious injuries or damage to your home. Safety sensors significantly reduce this risk. They instantly halt the door’s movement if they detect an obstruction. If your pet or child starts running under a closing garage door or your car is still in there, it’ll stop opening immediately.
- Young children and pets may not always be aware of the garage door’s movement. Safety sensors provide an additional layer of protection, ensuring that no harm comes to them while the door is closing.
- Safety sensors don’t just protect people; they also prevent damage to your belongings. They protect vehicles, bicycles, or any objects inadvertently left in the path of the door. This protects you from not driving your car in enough and having a garage door close on your trunk. A garage door is rather heavy and can do some real damage to your vehicle.
- Many regions and building codes require the installation of garage door safety sensors. They’re necessary to ensure compliance with safety standards. Failing to have these sensors in place could result in penalties or the need for costly modifications. This is an important check on home inspections today as well. Most home inspectors will try and trip the safety sensor to make sure it’s working so keep your sensors clean and up to date.
Maintenance and Testing Is Straightforward and Easy
To ensure the effectiveness of garage door safety sensors, it’s important to regularly clean them. Here are some essential tips:
- Dust, dirt, or debris on the sensor lenses can obstruct the beam and affect their functionality. Periodically clean the sensors to keep them working correctly.
- Make sure the sensors are properly aligned with each other. Misaligned sensors may not detect obstructions accurately. You can tell if they’re not aligned by if they’re tripped immediately without anything blocking them. If you struggle to align them yourself, contact a professional garage door installer. They’ll be able to quickly assist you and keep your garage door running.
- Regularly test the sensors by blocking the beam’s path with a non-living object (never use your body or limbs). If the door doesn’t reverse when the beam is interrupted, it’s time to address the issue. You need to be able to rely on this safety issue in your everyday life. A safety sensor failing could have catastrophic effects.
Keep Your Garage Door Safety Sensors Clean and Maintained
Garage door safety sensors are indispensable for maintaining a safe and secure home environment. They provide protection against accidents. When the door is closing they ensure that you, your family, and your property are safeguarded. Regular maintenance and testing are important to keep these sensors in working condition. Be sure to include them in your home safety checklist. Your garage door’s convenience and security are best enjoyed when coupled with a strong commitment to safety.
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