How to Maintain Your Garage Door’s Photo Eyes

The safety of your garage door should be a top priority as a homeowner to ensure that it operates well and doesn’t put your family at risk each day. The photo eyes that are installed are responsible for detecting objects or people who are in the bath of the door and will cause it to reverse. There are a few important ways to maintain your garage door’s photo eyes to prevent them from malfunctioning in the future.

Block the Sun

During the warmer months of the year, the rays from the sun can cause damage to the photo eyes. It’s important to create a barrier that prevents the sensors from being exposed to the sun to ensure they operate well and can continue to detect items or objects in its path. Placing a piece of cardboard next to the sensor can block the sun without preventing it from working well. In some cases, a technician may need to perform a garage door repair in Visalia on the parts if the damage is extensive.

Check for Blinking Lights

You’ll need to perform a visual inspection of the sensors to ensure they’re not blocked. If there are issues with their alignment or any obstructions, then it will cause the garage door to close, which can lead to injuries. The sensors can become out of alignment when they’re bumped, which makes it necessary to examine the parts every few months.

Clean the Sensors

The sensors can malfunction if they have dirt or debris that has accumulated on the surface due to exposure to environmental elements. If grime has accumulated throughout the season, it will prevent the garage door sensor from seeing well. Use a soft, damp rag to gently remove any spider webs, dust or insects that are present. Place a cement block in the pathway of the door and test it out to ensure that it immediately reverses.