How to Adjust a Garage Door Limit Switch

A garage door limit switch is a device that helps you set the appropriate functionality of a garage door. Over time, it may be necessary to adjust the switch to make the garage door close completely if it is not working properly. With these simple steps, you will be able to tune-up the limit switch so that your garage door recovers its optimal performance. It will also help prevent undesired accidents.

Step 1 – Identifying the Type of Switch

First, locate the limit switch. On certain garage door models, the limit switch is located on the tracks. If you can’t find it there, consult your user manual for reference. It is also possible that the limit switch is located in the opener mechanism. Use a ladder to get there and get ready to make the necessary adjustments. Generally, the switches are two white knobs that you can adjust using a flat-head screwdriver. Always make sure you take the appropriate precautions when dealing with a garage door.

Step 2 – Making the Adjustments

Once you locate the limit switch, take your flat-head screwdriver and start turning the knobs. Turn clockwise to increase the travel distance and counterclockwise to decrease the travel distance. Next, test the garage door, with the help of another person, by opening and closing it. Adjust the knobs as necessary until you achieve the desired performance. Use a source of light if necessary. Remember that when working with a garage door, weight and torsion are some elements to take into consideration.

Step 3 – Testing the Sensitivity of the Door Operation

If the garage door does not go into reverse while closing when you apply some pressure, you will need to adjust the safety force. You can test this by holding the door with your hand while the door is closing or by putting a piece of lumber under the door. To adjust the safety force, turn the down limit screw clockwise and test again. It is labeled as “Open Force” or “Close Force” and has numbered level indicators that you can use to make the changes according to the amount of force required. Continue adjusting and testing until the safety feature works properly. This might take a few minutes or could take a whole afternoon. Be aware that you will need extra time to adjust your garage door switch.

Step 4 – Adding More Features to the Garage Door

There are a large number of other options available for garage doors that vastly increase their functionality. The selection of these will depend on the level of comfort and security you want to attain. Adding a keypad to the door opener allows you to enter a code to open the garage door from outside the house or in case of an emergency. A sensitivity sensor will alert you when the vehicle is too close to the wall. These devices for your garage door opener are easy to install and best of all they require very little to no technical knowledge to implement.