This is certainly the time of year when everyone seems to be running in and out of the house, usually through the garage door. Not only has it become the standard mode of entry into your home after parking the car, but with the “busyness” of summer activities it seems to be the main area of high traffic; the ins and outs of getting the yard tools and supplies, bird feeders, pet supplies, tools for various household projects, barbeque grills, bicycles and other recreational items. Your garage door in the summer might as well be a revolving door, for you, your kids, the neighbors’ kids, and pets. So much more important, then, becomes the safety of your door.
Since January 1, 1993, to prevent doors from crushing objects in their path, all garage doors with an automatic garage door opener have been required by federal law to have optic sensors that can detect a person or object below the door, prompting it to reverse. This can be tested by placing an object directly in line with the door, which should reverse immediately upon contact or by using an object to break the electronic eye beams on either side of the door. Your garage door should also be balanced; meaning, you should be able to lift your garage door smoothly and easily with one hand. If the door is out of balance, it could be using excessive force to close, which could pose a safety hazard.
If your optic sensors are not working correctly, the automatic reverse feature or door balance seems even slightly off, it is a good idea to have your garage door inspected by your local overhead door technician. Checking these few items will ensure the safety of your garage door.
