If it reverses before reaching the floor
The opener may be responding to an interrupted or misaligned photo-eye beam, or it may be detecting resistance. Clear objects from the doorway, gently clean the sensor lenses, and observe the indicator lights. Do not bypass the sensors.
If it reaches the floor and then reopens
The opener may be pushing after the door has already reached the floor, causing its protection system to reverse. Floor changes, debris at the threshold, or an incorrect close-travel setting can contribute.
Safe checks
- Remove people, pets, vehicles, and loose objects from the doorway.
- Check that both sensor lenses are clean and face each other without touching wiring or mounts under tension.
- Watch the exact reversal point from inside the garage.
- Check for debris, ice, or a raised threshold where the door meets the floor.
What the result means
- Before the floor, with a blinking sensor light: The safety-sensor path or alignment is the first area to address.
- Before the floor, at the same higher point: The door may be encountering resistance.
- After floor contact: Close travel or the floor interface may need evaluation.
When to stop DIY
Stop if the door binds, becomes crooked, has a loose cable, or reverses despite a clear sensor path and doorway. Do not disable reversal protection or increase force to mask resistance.
When to call a professional
Call for service when safe cleaning and obstruction checks do not resolve the behavior, or when the door, track, cable, spring, or bottom seal appears damaged.