Why Your Garage Door Won’t Close (And How to Fix It): Arizona Homeowner Guide

By Open Sesame Garage Doors – 30+ Years Serving Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa & Queen Creek

If your garage door won’t close, you’re not alone — this is one of the most common issues we see in Arizona homes. From misaligned sensors to heat-damaged components, your garage door needs everything working perfectly to close safely.

Here’s a simple guide to help you troubleshoot before calling a technician.

1. Check the Safety Sensors (Photo Eyes)

These sensors sit on both sides of the bottom of your garage door. They must be aligned for the door to close.

Check for:• Blinking lights• Uneven height• Dirt or dust on the lenses• Sunlight interference (VERY common in Arizona)

Fix:Gently clean the sensors and point them directly at each other until both lights stay solid.

2. Clear Objects Blocking the Door

Even something small (like a broom, toy, or debris) can prevent the door from closing.

Look around the tracks and threshold line for anything in the way.

3. Check the Opener Lights or Error Codes

Some openers will blink multiple times to indicate the issue.For example:• 1–2 blinks = sensor issue• 4–5 blinks = motor overheating

If the opener runs but the door doesn’t move, skip to #5.

4. Verify the Door Isn’t Locked

Some garage doors have a manual lock or slide bar inside. If engaged, the opener will not close the door.

Make sure it’s fully retracted.

5. Inspect for Broken Springs or Cables

If the door tries to close and immediately reverses — or slams shut too fast — you may have a damaged spring or cable.

Warning:Do not attempt to close or lift the door manually. Springs are under extreme tension.

Call a professional immediately.

6. Arizona Heat & Sensor Issues

Our extreme temperatures can warp metal, misalign sensors, and cause electronics to fail temporarily.

If your garage faces direct sunlight, sensors may trigger false alarms.

Shade, realignment, or protective covers often solve this.

When to Call Open Sesame Garage Doors

Call us if:

• The door won’t close even after realigning sensors• Springs or cables look damaged• The door is crooked• The opener flashes errors• You hear grinding, popping, or scraping sounds• You need same-day repair

We offer fast, honest service across Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, and Queen Creek.

Call or Text: (480) 245-6735