Introduction
If your garage door opens with the remote but won’t close with the remote, it can be frustrating and inconvenient. This issue is typically caused by misaligned safety sensors, wiring problems, or an issue with the garage door opener settings. Fortunately, most of these problems can be easily diagnosed and fixed.
In this guide, we will explore the common reasons why your garage door won’t close with the remote, troubleshooting steps, and solutions to get your door working properly again.
Read too: Door and Garage Door Companies: Choosing the Right Partner for Your Needs
Why Your Garage Door Opens With Remote But Won’t Close With Remote
If your garage door opens fine but refuses to close with the remote, there are several possible reasons for this malfunction. Below are the most common causes:
1. Misaligned or Blocked Safety Sensors
Modern garage door openers have photo-eye safety sensors installed near the floor on both sides of the garage door tracks. These sensors prevent the door from closing if they detect an obstruction in the path.
If the sensors are misaligned, dirty, or blocked, the door won’t close with the remote, but it will still open properly.
How to Fix:
- Locate the safety sensors on both sides of the garage door near the ground.
- Check if the sensors are aligned properly and pointing at each other.
- Wipe the sensor lenses with a clean, dry cloth to remove dust or dirt.
- Remove any objects (e.g., leaves, debris, or spider webs) that may be blocking the sensor’s beam.
2. Safety Sensor Wiring Issues
If the safety sensors are clean and aligned but the issue persists, the problem may be in the sensor wiring. A loose or damaged wire can prevent the system from working correctly.
How to Fix:
- Inspect the wires connected to the safety sensors for any loose or disconnected connections.
- Look for frayed or damaged wires and replace them if necessary.
- If the wiring looks fine, try disconnecting and reconnecting the sensor wires to ensure a solid connection.
3. The Garage Door Opener Is in Lock Mode
Some garage door openers have a lock mode, which prevents the door from closing using the remote but allows it to open.
How to Fix:
- Check the wall-mounted garage door opener control panel.
- If you see a blinking light, the opener might be in lock mode.
- Press and hold the lock button for a few seconds to disable lock mode.
4. Dead Batteries in the Remote Control
If the garage door opens but won’t close with the remote, the remote batteries may be weak or dead.
How to Fix:
- Replace the remote’s batteries with new ones.
- Test the remote to see if it now closes the garage door.
- If the issue persists, try using a different remote to check if the original remote is faulty.
5. Dirty or Faulty Garage Door Tracks and Rollers
If the garage door sensors and remotes are working correctly, the problem might be due to dirty or stuck rollers.
How to Fix:
- Inspect the garage door tracks and remove any dirt, dust, or small obstructions.
- Lubricate the rollers using garage door lubricant to ensure smooth movement.
6. Garage Door Opener Force Settings Need Adjustment
Garage door openers have force adjustment settings that control how much power is needed to close the door. If these settings are incorrect, the door may not close properly.
How to Fix:
- Locate the force adjustment dials on the garage door opener (usually labeled “Up Force” and “Down Force”).
- Increase the Down Force slightly and test if the door closes with the remote.
- Make small adjustments until the door functions properly.
7. A Malfunctioning Logic Board or Circuit Board
If none of the above solutions work, the issue may be with the garage door opener’s circuit board or logic board.
How to Fix:
- Unplug the garage door opener and leave it unplugged for 30 seconds to reset it.
- Plug it back in and test if the issue is resolved.
- If the problem continues, the circuit board may need to be repaired or replaced by a professional.
Garage Door Opens With Remote But Won’t Close With Remote – Troubleshooting Guide
If your garage door opens but won’t close with the remote, follow these troubleshooting steps:
Step 1: Check the Safety Sensors
- Ensure the sensors are aligned and clean.
- Remove any obstructions blocking the sensor’s beam.
Step 2: Inspect the Sensor Wiring
- Look for loose, damaged, or disconnected wires and fix them.
Step 3: Disable Lock Mode
- Check if the wall-mounted opener panel has a blinking lock light.
- If so, press and hold the lock button for a few seconds to disable it.
Step 4: Replace the Remote Batteries
- Install new batteries in your garage door remote.
- If the problem persists, test with a different remote.
Step 5: Clean and Lubricate the Garage Door Tracks and Rollers
- Remove dirt and debris from the tracks.
- Lubricate the rollers to ensure smooth movement.
Step 6: Adjust the Force and Travel Settings
- Increase the Down Force slightly to help the door close properly.
Step 7: Reset the Garage Door Opener
- Unplug the opener for 30 seconds, then plug it back in.
If none of these steps work, you may need to call a professional technician to inspect the circuit board or motor.
When to Call a Professional
You should contact a garage door technician if:
- The safety sensors and remote are working, but the door still won’t close.
- You suspect a problem with the circuit board or opener motor.
- The garage door tracks, rollers, and wiring are fine, but the problem persists.
A professional can diagnose and repair complex garage door opener issues safely.
How to Prevent Future Garage Door Opener Issues
To prevent future problems with your garage door remote, follow these maintenance tips:
1. Regularly Clean and Align the Safety Sensors
Dust and debris can cause sensor misalignment. Clean them every few months.
2. Test the Remote Batteries Periodically
Replace the batteries in your remote at least once a year to avoid sudden failures.
3. Keep the Garage Door Tracks and Rollers Clean
Dirt buildup can affect door movement. Clean and lubricate them twice a year.
4. Adjust the Force Settings as Needed
If you notice the door struggling to close, adjust the force settings before it worsens.
5. Reset the Garage Door Opener Occasionally
Perform a reset every few months to clear potential system glitches.
Final Thoughts
If your garage door opens with the remote but won’t close with the remote, the most common issue is misaligned or dirty safety sensors. Checking and cleaning them is the first step in troubleshooting.
Other possible causes include wiring issues, lock mode activation, remote battery problems, and force setting adjustments. If all else fails, resetting the opener or calling a professional may be necessary.
By following the troubleshooting steps in this guide and maintaining your garage door opener regularly, you can prevent future issues and keep your system working smoothly.
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