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Why does my garage door opener work intermittently?

less than a minute readApr 19Lyle Weischwill
image of garage-door-opener

Radio interference from other devices, such as photoelectric sensors for security lights, can prevent a garage door opener from responding to the signal from the remote. The problem is often intermittent. To test, trigger the remote while standing close to the motor unit-if the door opens consistently from that close distance, interference is likely the problem. To solve the problem, identify the source of the radio interference and either move it or turn it off.

If the door doesn't open when you're standing close to the motor unit, follow the troubleshooting tips in our garage door opener remotes won't work video to help you fix the problem. If the garage door opener lights blink 10 times when you're trying to close the garage door, then the safety sensors may need adjustment or the sensor wiring may need to be repaired or replaced.


These repairs may help solve your garage-door-opener problem

JC-GDO-Find-and-remove-garage-door-opener-RF-interference-source

Find and remove garage door opener RF interference source

When the garage door opener works intermittently, the logic board may be experiencing radio frequency (RF) interference from nearby sources such as security lights, ham radios and some electronics. If the remote works only when held within a few feet of the motor unit, RF interference is probably the problem. Locate and eliminate the source of the RF interference. To determine the source, disconnect electrical power to suspected sources, one by one.

Find and remove garage door opener rf interference source

Find the required part specific to your product.
JC-GDO-Repair-or-replace-external-garage-door-opener-wiring

Repair or replace external garage door opener wiring

External wiring connects the wall-mounted door control and the safety sensor to the motor unit of the garage door opener. That wiring can become damaged or disconnected. Check that wires are securely attached to the sensor's photoelectric eyes (each eye has 2 wires) and the wall unit. If any wire is cut, strip insulation from the end of the wire and reattach it. Check that wires are still attached to the terminals on the back of the motor unit. Replace or repair any frayed, pinched, or exposed wires.

Repair or replace external garage door opener wiring

Find the required part specific to your product.