Garage Door Sensors Acting Up? Here’s What’s Wrong (And How to Fix It Fast)

Close-up of the garage door safety sensor on the wooden door.

Garage doors are one of the most frequently used entry points in GTA homes, and their smooth operation depends heavily on a small but critical component: garage door sensors. These sensors are designed to prevent accidents by detecting obstructions and stopping the door from closing on people, pets, or objects. However, when sensors malfunction, it can lead to both inconvenience and safety concerns.

If your garage door won’t close properly or reverses unexpectedly, faulty sensors might be the culprit. Let’s explore why garage door sensors fail, how to troubleshoot them, and when it’s time to call for professional garage door repair in Toronto.

Top Reasons Your Garage Door Sensors Fail (And What You Can Do)

Dirty or Blocked Lenses

Infrared technology allows garage door sensors to detect objects in the door’s path. If the lenses are dirty or blocked by debris, the beam can’t reach the receiver, causing the door to malfunction. This is especially common during GTA winters when salt, snow, and grime build up.

Fix: Clean the lenses gently with a soft cloth and mild cleaner. Make sure nothing is obstructing the sensor’s path.

Misalignment

Sensors must be perfectly aligned to communicate. If one sensor is bumped or shifted—by a car tire, a broom, or even vibration—it can break the beam connection.

Fix: Reposition the sensors so they’re directly aligned and facing one another. Most models have indicator lights that turn solid when aligned correctly.

Wiring Issues

Over time, wires can become frayed, disconnected, or damaged due to wear and tear, pests, or poor installation. This can disrupt communication between the sensors and the garage door opener system.

Fix: Inspect the wires for visible damage. If you’re not comfortable handling electrical components, it’s best to call a professional.

Sunlight Interference

Direct sunlight can interfere with the infrared beam, especially in certain orientations. This is a lesser-known issue but can cause intermittent sensor failures.

Fix: Try shading the sensors or installing sun shields. If the problem persists, a technician may need to reposition or upgrade the sensors.

Faulty Sensors or Opener

Sometimes, the sensors themselves or the garage door opener’s logic board may be defective. This tends to happen more frequently with older garage door systems or following electrical disruptions like power surges.

Fix: If basic troubleshooting doesn’t work, replacement may be necessary. A certified technician can diagnose and replace faulty components quickly.

Sensor Still Not Working? It’s Time to Call the Pros

While some sensor issues are easy to fix, others require professional expertise. If your garage door:

  • still won’t close after cleaning and realignment
  • shows inconsistent behaviour
  • has damaged wiring or hardware
  • is part of an older system needing upgrades

…it’s time to call in the experts.

At Garage One, we specialize in garage door repair across Toronto and the GTA, offering same-day service, free estimates, and full warranty coverage. Our certified technicians can quickly diagnose sensor issues and restore your garage door’s safety and functionality.

Why GTA Homeowners Trust Garage One

  • Local expertise: We understand the unique challenges of Toronto homes, from harsh winters to aging infrastructure.
  • Fast response: Emergency repairs available 24/7.
  • Transparent pricing: No hidden fees—just honest service.
  • Comprehensive solutions: From sensor repairs to full garage door replacements.

Don’t Let a Small Issue Become a Big Problem—Call Garage One

A malfunctioning garage door sensor isn’t just inconvenient—it’s a safety risk. If you’re experiencing issues, don’t wait for a complete breakdown. Contact Garage One for reliable garage door repair in Toronto and get your door working like new.

Call us now at 1-866-999-9593 or request a free quote online.