Garage Door Repair Wheeling tackles broken torsion and extension springs, the vital components that balance your garage door. Made from high-cycle oil-tempered steel for durability, they typically last 10,000-15,000 cycles (several years). Our technicians diagnose the issue (broken spring or worn-out) and replace it with the appropriate size and type for your specific door. 
Garage Door Repair Wheeling fixes malfunctioning openers (belt-drive, screw-drive, chain-drive) from top brands (LiftMaster, Chamberlain, Genie, etc.). Lasting 7-12 years, openers can experience electrical issues or worn parts. Our technicians diagnose the problem and recommend repair or replacement with a compatible, high-quality opener for lasting performance. 
Garage Door Repair Wheeling repairs or replaces worn garage door cables. Made of high-strength galvanized steel, these cables typically last several years. Our technicians diagnose cable issues and fix them if possible. Otherwise, they replace the cables with high-quality galvanized steel to ensure smooth and safe garage door operation. 
Garage Door Repair Wheeling can fix your malfunctioning garage door sensors. These infrared sensors (universal or brand-specific) typically last 5-7 years. Our technicians diagnose the problem (misalignment, dirty lenses, damaged wiring) and fix it if possible. Otherwise, they replace them with high-quality sensors for continued safety and smooth operation of your garage door. 
Garage Door Repair Wheeling tackles noisy or malfunctioning rollers. We offer both nylon for quiet operation and steel for heavy-duty doors. Lasting 5-10 years, these rollers can wear out. Our technicians assess the problem and replace them with high-quality nylon or steel rollers, ensuring a smooth and quiet garage door operation. 
Misaligned garage door? Garage Door Repair Wheeling can fix it! Our technicians tackle bent tracks (usually galvanized steel) caused by loose brackets or impacts. They’ll diagnose the issue and realign the tracks using specialized tools, ensuring your door operates smoothly and safely again. Don’t wait – call us to prevent further damage! 
Garage Door Repair Wheeling isn’t just doors! We fix all types of gates (swing, slide, barrier) too. Common problems include malfunctioning openers, broken hinges, or faulty sensors. Our technicians diagnose & repair the issue using high-quality parts, ensuring your gate operates securely for years to come. 
Welcome to Garage Door Repair Wheeling, your trusted garage door company for all your sensor repair needs. Our team of garage door experts specializes in diagnosing and fixing garage door sensor problems, ensuring the safety and functionality of your automatic garage system. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, we’re here to keep your garage door operating smoothly and securely.
Garage door safety sensors are a critical component of your garage door system, designed to prevent accidents and ensure smooth operation. Whether you’re dealing with misaligned photo eyes, faulty wiring, or sensor lights that won’t cooperate, our skilled technicians are equipped to handle all types of garage door sensors. Don’t let a malfunctioning sensor compromise your safety or convenience – call us today at (847) 440-3547 for prompt and professional service.
Types of Garage Door Sensors
Before we delve into the specifics, let’s explore the various types of garage door sensors you might encounter:
Reed Switch Door Sensor
Reed switch door sensors are magnetic sensors that detect when a garage door is opened or closed. These sensors consist of two parts: a magnet and a reed switch, typically mounted on the door frame and the door itself. When the door is closed, the magnet aligns with the switch, completing the circuit. Reed switch sensors are simple and reliable, but they can be affected by strong magnetic fields in the vicinity. Despite this limitation, they remain a popular choice for many homeowners due to their straightforward operation and ease of installation.
Infrared Door Sensor
Infrared sensors are the most common type found in modern garage door systems. These sensors use an infrared beam between two photo eyes, typically mounted about 6 inches from the ground on either side of the garage door. If the beam is interrupted while the door is closing, it triggers the door to reverse, preventing potential accidents. This type of sensor is highly effective for ensuring safety, especially in households with children or pets. The infrared technology allows for precise detection of obstacles, making it a reliable choice for most garage door applications.
Rolling Switch Door Sensor
Rolling switch sensors are mechanical sensors that detect the movement of the garage door. These sensors are attached to the garage door track and use a roller that moves along with the door. The sensor triggers when the door reaches a certain position, providing accurate information about the door’s state. Rolling switch sensors are often used in conjunction with other sensor types for added security and functionality. Their mechanical nature makes them resistant to certain types of interference that might affect electronic sensors, providing an additional layer of reliability to your garage door system.
Trusted Brands in Garage Door Sensors
When it comes to reliability and performance, these brands stand out:
- Chamberlain: Known for innovative features and compatibility with smart home systems
- Genie: Offers a wide range of sensors suitable for various garage door types
- LiftMaster: Renowned for durability and advanced safety features
- Garage Stop: Specializes in heavy-duty sensors for commercial applications
- Digi-Code: Provides cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality
Signs You Need Garage Door Sensor Repair
Recognizing the signs of a faulty garage door sensor can save you from potential accidents and costly repairs. Here are some indicators that it’s time to call a professional:
- Door reverses unexpectedly when closing
- Sensor lights are blinking or not illuminated
- Garage door won’t close unless you hold down the push bar
- Inconsistent operation of the garage door
- Visible damage to sensor lenses or wires
- Garage door opener motor runs but the door doesn’t move
If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to address the issue promptly to ensure the safety and functionality of your garage door system.
The Repair Process
Our expert technicians follow a comprehensive process to diagnose and repair your garage door sensors:
- Initial assessment: We inspect the sensors, wiring, and overall garage door system
- Diagnosis: Using specialized tools, we identify the root cause of the problem
- Cleaning: Often, a soft cloth is all that’s needed to clean sensor lenses
- Alignment: We ensure photo eyes are properly aligned to maintain the infrared beam
- Wiring check: We inspect and repair any damaged sensor wires, including white and black wires
- Power supply verification: We check the connection to the garage door opener and resolve any electrical issues
- Replacement: If necessary, we replace faulty components with high-quality parts
- Testing: We thoroughly test the system to ensure proper functionality and safety
Troubleshooting Garage Door Sensors
For minor issues, you may be able to troubleshoot your garage door sensors:
- Check for obstructions: Ensure nothing is blocking the sensor’s line of sight
- Clean the lenses: Use a soft cloth to gently clean the sensor lenses
- Check alignment: Verify that the LED lights on both sensors are steady
- Inspect wiring: Look for any obvious signs of damage to the sensor wires
- Tighten connections: Ensure all wire connections and wing nuts are secure
- Test with cardboard: Use a piece of cardboard to test if the sensors are working correctly
Remember, if these steps don’t resolve the issue, it’s best to call a professional to avoid potential safety hazards.
Why Choose Garage Door Repair Wheeling
When it comes to garage door sensor repair in Wheeling, choosing the right service provider is crucial for your safety and peace of mind. Here’s why Garage Door Repair Wheeling stands out as your best choice:
- Specialized expertise in garage door sensor repair
- Prompt, reliable service with fair prices
- Comprehensive warranty on parts and labor
- Experienced technicians with ongoing training
- 24/7 emergency repair services available
- Commitment to customer satisfaction and safety
- Use of high-quality, trusted brand components
Contact Garage Door Repair Wheeling today at (847) 440-3547 for expert sensor repair and maintenance. Our team is ready to ensure your garage door system is functioning safely and efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How often should garage door sensors be inspected? We recommend a professional inspection at least once a year, along with regular visual checks by the homeowner.
- Can I replace garage door sensors myself? While it’s possible, we advise against DIY replacement due to safety concerns and the need for precise alignment.
- How long do garage door sensors typically last? With proper maintenance, garage door sensors can last 10-15 years, but factors like weather and usage can affect lifespan.
- Will cold weather affect my garage door sensors? Extreme temperatures can impact sensor performance. Regular maintenance can help mitigate weather-related issues.
- Are garage door sensors required by law? Yes, since 1993, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has required all garage door openers to include safety sensors.