When the door reverses instantly, sensors are usually to blame
Modern openers rely on infrared photo-eyes mounted six inches off the floor. If the beam is blocked, dirty, or misaligned, the door reverses to keep pets and people safe. Colorado homes get extra interference from blowing dust, snowbanks, and intense sunlight bouncing off concrete.
Quick safety checklist before troubleshooting
- Make sure nothing (tools, toys, snow shovels) is physically blocking the door
- Inspect the opener light for error flashes—most brands blink 10 times for sensor issues
- Keep the opener connected to power and avoid bypassing sensors for safety
Step-by-step sensor fixes
1 Clean the lenses
- Use a microfiber cloth to remove dust, salt spray, or sprinkler residue
- For stubborn grime, spray the cloth with glass cleaner—never spray the sensor directly
2 Check alignment
- Loosen the wingnut on each sensor bracket and gently pivot until both LEDs glow steady green
- Measure from the floor to each lens; they must match to keep the beam level
3 Inspect wiring
- Follow the low-voltage wires back to the opener; look for staples that cut the insulation or rodent bites
- Gently tug on the terminal connections to confirm they’re seated under the screw clamps
4 Shield from Colorado sun
- Afternoon sun can overpower the beam. Add a small visor made from foam pipe insulation or angle the sensor slightly inward to reduce glare
- In winter, brush away reflective snow piles under the sensors
5 Test the system
- Press the remote. If the door begins closing, wave a broom through the beam to confirm it reverses instantly
- Still failing? Most openers will close when you hold the wall button down continuously—use this only to secure the home temporarily
When to call Colorado Garage Door Fix
Sensor problems can escalate into:
- Cracked or waterlogged sensor housings
- Corroded wire splices in unheated garages
- Faulty logic boards misreading otherwise aligned sensors
Our technicians carry universal replacement photo-eyes, wiring harnesses, and surge protection to keep openers reliable even during spring storms.
Call (970) 409-1369 for same-day service across the Front Range, or book online for a full safety-system tune-up.
Keep your Colorado garage secure and compliant—working sensors are the easiest upgrade you can make today.