How to Replace a Garage Door Opener Safety Sensor

DeannaArticles

How to Replace a Garage Door Opener Safety Sensor blog post image

Instructions

  1. Disconnect the power

    Use a step ladder to access the garage door opener’s power cord and motor unit. Unplug the garage door opener.

    PHOTO: Unplug the garage door opener.

    PHOTO: Unplug the garage door opener.

     

  2. Remove the sensors

    Remove the wing nut from the safety sensor.

    Pull the sensor from the bracket.

    Cut the wires about an inch from the safety sensor, leaving enough slack in the control wire to connect the new sensor.

    Repeat the process for the other safety sensor.

    PHOTO: Remove the wing nut from the safety sensor.

    PHOTO: Remove the wing nut from the safety sensor.

     

  3. Connect the new safety sensor wires

    Separate the control wires on the new sensor.

    Connect the black-striped control wire to the black-striped safety sensor wire using the crimp wire nut.

    Connect the solid white wires the same way.

    Repeat the process for the other safety sensor.

    Tip: If you’re not using the crimp wire nuts that come with the new safety sensors, strip 1/2-inch of insulation from each wire and connect the wires using wire nuts.
    PHOTO: Connect the safety sensor wires.

    PHOTO: Connect the safety sensor wires.

     

  4. Install the new safety sensors

    Slide the safety sensor into its bracket and secure it with the wire nut.

    Repeat the process for the other safety sensor.

     

    PHOTO: Install the new safety sensors.

    PHOTO: Install the new safety sensors.

     

  5. Reconnect electrical power

    Plugin the garage door opener.

     

  6. Line up the safety sensors

    Align the safety sensors so the green indicator light on the receiving sensor glows steadily.

     

  7. Test the safety sensor

    Open the garage door.

    Place a box or similar object between the safety sensors to block the sensing beam.

    Attempt to close the garage door using a remote.

    The door should stay open and the motor unit lights should blink.

    If the garage door opener closes the door with the safety sensors blocked, replace the logic board.

    PHOTO: Test the safety sensor.

    PHOTO: Test the safety sensor.

     

    Originally posted on Sears Parts Direct