Test Garage Door Safety Reverse
Test the auto-reverse safety feature to prevent injury or damage.
DIY Cost
$0
If Ignored
$500
Frequency
Once a year
Difficulty
Easy DIY
Most homeowners can handle this in under an hour with basic tools.
How to do it — step by step
Place a 2x4 flat on the floor in the path of the garage door. Press the close button — the door should reverse automatically when it contacts the board. Also wave your hand through the photoelectric sensor beam; the door should stop and reverse immediately. If either test fails, adjust the sensitivity or replace the sensors. Federal law requires these safety features on all doors since 1993, but sensors can fail or become misaligned over time.
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