Inspector's check · Safety and electrical
Does the garage door reverse when it touches something?
Lay a 2x4 flat on the floor under the door and close it with the opener. It should reverse within a couple of seconds of touching the board. Then close it and wave a broom through the beam between the two sensors near the floor; it should reverse again.
Why it matters
A door that doesn't reverse can crush a child, a pet or a car. Openers made since 1993 must reverse, but the force setting and sensors drift out of adjustment.
If it's a problem
An inspector would write it up as “Garage door doesn't auto-reverse” and rate it safety first. Your options, with rough U.S. costs:
- DIY (usually best), $0 to $20: Clean and realign the photo-eye sensors, then adjust the close-force setting per the opener's manual and retest.
- Handyman, $100 to $250: Adjust or replace the sensors and test the door.
- Pro, $150 to $700: Garage door company services the opener or replaces an old one without sensors.
Get this on your own house's plan
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