Garage Door Won’t Close When Sun Shines on Sensor: A Comprehensive DIY Guide

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The issue of a garage door not closing when the sun shines on the sensor is a common problem caused by the interference of sunlight with the sensor’s infrared beam. This comprehensive guide will provide you with a detailed analysis of the problem, technical specifications, and a step-by-step DIY solution to help you fix this issue.

Problem Analysis

Garage door sensors use infrared beams to detect obstructions and prevent the door from closing. When sunlight hits the sensor, it can cause a false positive, making the sensor believe there is an obstruction, and preventing the door from closing. This issue is particularly prevalent during certain times of the day when the sun’s angle is directly aligned with the sensor.

Technical Specifications

garage door wont close when sun shines on sensor

The garage door sensors typically consist of an emitter and a receiver. The emitter sends out an infrared beam, and the receiver detects it. When an object interrupts the beam, the receiver sends a signal to stop the door from closing. The sensors have a range of about 6 to 15 feet, depending on the model.

Here are some key technical specifications of garage door sensors:

Specification Range
Sensor Range 6 to 15 feet
Beam Width 1 to 3 inches
Response Time Less than 1 second
Operating Temperature -20°F to 120°F
Power Consumption Less than 5 watts

The sensor’s beam width and response time are critical factors in ensuring the proper detection of obstructions and preventing the door from closing when the sun shines on the sensor.

DIY Solution

To fix the issue of the garage door not closing when the sun shines on the sensor, you can try the following steps:

1. Adjust the Sensor’s Position

Try adjusting the sensor’s position so that sunlight does not hit it directly. You can mount the sensor higher or lower or angle it away from the sun. This can help prevent the sunlight from interfering with the infrared beam and causing a false positive.

2. Use a Shading Device

You can use a shading device, such as a hood or a shade, to block sunlight from hitting the sensor. You can buy a pre-made shade or make one yourself using cardboard or plastic. This will help to create a physical barrier between the sensor and the sun’s rays.

3. Cover the Sensor with Tape

You can cover the sensor with black electrical tape or a dark cloth to reduce the amount of sunlight that hits it. Be careful not to cover the sensor completely, as it needs to detect the infrared beam. This method can be a quick and easy solution, but it may not be as effective as adjusting the sensor’s position or using a shading device.

By following these DIY steps, you can effectively address the issue of a garage door not closing when the sun shines on the sensor. Remember to test the solution thoroughly and make any necessary adjustments to ensure the proper functioning of your garage door system.

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