When a garage door goes almost all the way down and then reverses back up, it is usually caused by one of the following issues:
Obstruction Detection
Most garage doors have safety sensors located near the bottom of the door tracks, close to the floor. These sensors are designed to prevent the door from closing if something is in its path. If the sensors detect an obstruction (like dirt, debris, or even misalignment), the door will reverse.
Solution: Check to ensure there is nothing blocking the path of the sensors. Clean them if necessary, and ensure they are properly aligned and facing each other.
Sensor Misalignment
If the sensors are not properly aligned, they may incorrectly signal that something is obstructing the door, causing it to reverse.
Solution: Realign the sensors so that they point directly at each other. There is usually an indicator light on the sensors that will change when they are aligned correctly.
Limit Switch Issue
The limit switch controls how far the garage door moves when opening or closing. If the settings are off, the door may think it has hit the ground when it actually hasn’t, causing it to reverse.
Solution: Adjust the limit switch settings on the garage door opener unit, typically found as screws or dials labeled “up limit” and “down limit.”
Track Issues
If the tracks are bent, misaligned, or dirty, the door may struggle to move smoothly, causing it to reverse as a safety measure.
Solution: Inspect the tracks for any bends, obstructions, or misalignment. Clean the tracks and ensure they are straight.
Garage Door Balance Problem
If the door is not properly balanced, the opener may sense excess resistance, causing it to reverse. A door that is too heavy or unbalanced can trigger the safety system.
Solution: Test the door balance by disconnecting the opener and manually opening and closing the door. If it is difficult to move or doesn’t stay in place when partially open, you may need to have the springs or balance adjusted by a professional.
Worn Rollers or Hinges
Worn-out rollers or hinges can cause the door to bind or stick while moving, which may trigger the door to reverse.
Solution: Inspect the rollers and hinges for wear and tear. Replace or lubricate as needed.
Addressing these potential causes should help resolve the issue with your garage door. If you’re unable to identify or fix the problem, it might be worth calling Garage Doors & More at 479-250-2069.
