Crush Prevention Systems: Protecting Your Family
2023-12-28 7 min read
# Crush Prevention Systems: Protecting Your Family
Garage doors are the largest moving objects in most homes, weighing anywhere from 150 to 400+ pounds. Without proper safety systems, they can pose serious risks. Here's what you need to know about crush prevention systems.
How Crush Prevention Works
Modern garage door systems use multiple safety features:
1. Photo-Eye Sensors
Mounted 4-6 inches above the floor on either side of the door, these sensors project an invisible beam. If anything breaks the beam while the door is closing, it immediately reverses.
2. Mechanical Auto-Reverse
The opener monitors the force required to close the door. If it encounters resistance (like a child, pet, or object), it reverses direction.
3. Timer-to-Close Safety
If using auto-close features, the system warns with lights and sounds before closing, giving time to clear the area.
Testing Your Safety Systems
Photo-Eye Test
1. Close the door 2. Start closing the door 3. Wave a broomstick through the sensor beam 4. The door should immediately reverse
Force Test
1. Start closing the door 2. Hold the bottom edge with your hands 3. Apply light upward pressure 4. The door should reverse with minimal force
If either test fails, stop using the door and <a href="/contact">call for service immediately</a>.
Common Safety Issues
Sensor Misalignment
Symptoms: - Door won't close, Lights blinking on opener, Door reverses immediately
Solution: Clean sensors and check alignment. Both sensor lights should be solid (not blinking).
Force Setting Too High
Symptoms: - Door doesn't reverse when meeting resistance, Takes significant force to trigger reverse
Solution: Call a professional to adjust the force settings. Check our <a href="/services">repair services</a> for help.
Keeping Your Family Safe
- Never duck under a moving door - Teach children that the door is not a toy - Keep remotes away from children - Test safety features monthly - Schedule annual <a href="/services">maintenance</a>
Emergency: What to Do
If someone is trapped under a garage door: 1. Pull the emergency release cord (red handle) 2. Lift the door manually 3. Seek medical attention if needed 4. Call for professional repair
<a href="/contact">Contact Garage Door Adna</a>: (360) 919-0905, 24/7 Emergency Service