We’ve all been there: standing in our driveway, remote in hand, hitting the button and wondering why on earth our garage door isn’t working. “Did I forget to replace the batteries?” you might wonder. “Is there something blocking its path?” 

But then you notice those little lights on your garage sensors. One’s green, but what about the other one? This leads to the burning question: Are both garage sensors supposed to be green? 

Role of Garage Door Sensors in Home Security

Deterrence for Intruders

A well-functioning garage door sensor can deter potential intruders. Most burglars look for easy targets, and a garage door that refuses to close because of its safety sensors can draw attention. This might make them think twice about attempting a break-in.

Integrated Home Security Systems

Many modern homes integrate garage door sensors with their overall home security system. This means that any malfunction or obstruction could trigger an alarm, notifying homeowners or security companies about potential breaches.

Protection Against Accidental Left-Open Scenarios

We’ve all had those moments of doubt, “Did I close the garage door?” A sensor that’s properly aligned and functioning ensures that your door responds and operates as it should. Some advanced garage door systems can even send alerts to your smartphone if the door remains open for an extended period, adding another layer of security.

What Are Garage Door Sensors, Anyway?

First things first, for those who might not be familiar: garage door sensors are those small devices located near the ground on either side of your garage door. Their primary purpose? Safety.

They send a beam across the length of the door’s threshold. If anything interrupts this beam—say, a child, pet, or your car—the garage door automatically reverses to prevent accidents or damage.

What is the Green Light?

Now, back to those lights. Typically, if everything’s functioning correctly and there are no obstructions, both sensors should indeed show a green light. It’s a simple and straightforward indicator that the sensors are aligned, and the safety beam is unobstructed.

However, if one of the sensors displays a red light (or no light at all), it might be signaling an issue. This could be due to:

• Misalignment: Over time, the sensors might get knocked out of place. If they’re not facing each other precisely, the beam can’t complete its path.

• Obstruction: Even if you can’t see it, there might be a tiny obstruction blocking the beam. It could be as minuscule as a buildup of dirt or a spiderweb.

• Wiring Issues: If the lights are behaving erratically, there could be a problem with the wiring connected to the sensors.

So, What Should You Do?

If one or both of your garage sensor lights aren’t green, try these quick troubleshooting steps:

• Inspect for Obstructions: Check the area between the sensors. Clear out any dirt, debris, or potential obstructions.

• Realign the Sensors: Gently adjust the sensors to make sure they’re facing each other directly. Sometimes, a simple nudge can do the trick.

• Check the Wiring: If you’re comfortable doing so, inspect the sensor’s wiring. Ensure there are no visible damages or loose connections.

However, if you’ve tried the steps above and are still seeing red, it might be time to consider professional help. Garage door sensors might seem small, but they play a critical role in your door’s safety mechanism. It’s essential to ensure they’re always in top shape.

Your Friendly Neighborhood Experts: GoPro Garage Doors

If you’re in the Rocklin area and in need of some expert advice or repair, consider GoPro Garage Doors. Specializing in garage door repair in Rocklin, CA, we’ve seen it all and can quickly diagnose and address any issues you might be experiencing. And, honestly, while there are many DIY projects homeowners can tackle, sometimes it’s best to leave the heavy lifting (or door lifting) to the pros.

Wrapping Up

So, in a nutshell, yes – both your garage sensors should ideally be green. If they aren’t, there might be a minor issue that you can quickly resolve. But, if the problem persists, remember there’s no shame in calling in the experts. Especially when it’s about ensuring the safety of your home.

Remember, a functioning garage door isn’t just a matter of convenience. It’s about safety and peace of mind. So next time you’re in need of garage door repair in Rocklin, CA, give GoPro Garage Doors a shout. 

We also offer maintenance, installation, replacement, and garage door repair services in Rocklin and all across Northern California. Contact us today for a free quote!