1. The safety sensors are blocked or misaligned
Every modern opener has two small sensors (photo eyes) near the floor on each side of the door. If anything breaks the invisible beam between them, the door won't close or will reverse. Check for a box, a broom, leaves, or even a spider web in the way.
Look at the small lights on each sensor. If one is off or blinking, the sensors are probably knocked out of alignment. Loosen the wing nut, gently point them at each other until both lights are solid, and tighten it back.
2. Dirty sensor lenses or direct sunlight
Dust and grime on the lenses can block the beam. Wipe them with a soft cloth. In Denver, low morning or evening sun shining straight into a sensor can also confuse it. If the problem only happens at a certain time of day, that's a strong clue.
3. The close-limit or force setting is off
The opener has settings that tell it how far to travel and how much force to use. If they drift, the door may stop short or reverse as soon as it touches the floor. These can be adjusted, but setting them too high removes an important safety margin, so if you're not sure, have a pro do it.
4. Something in the track
Check both vertical tracks for objects, dents, or bends. A roller that hits a bent spot can make the door bind and reverse. Don't hammer a bent track with the door under tension.
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5. The remote or wall button
If the door closes from the wall button but not the remote, try new remote batteries and reprogramming. If nothing works from either, check that the opener is plugged in and the lock button on the wall panel isn't turned on.
6. A broken spring or cable
If you heard a loud bang, the door looks crooked, or it feels extremely heavy, a spring or cable may have broken. Stop using the door. Springs and cables are under high tension and should only be handled by a professional.
7. The door is off its track
If a roller has come out of the track or the door is hanging unevenly, don't try to close it. Unplug the opener, keep people and cars clear, and call for service.
How to close a stuck door in an emergency
If the springs and cables look intact and you need to close the door, you can pull the red emergency release cord to disconnect the opener and lower the door by hand. Only do this with the door fully open or fully closed, keep a firm grip, and never do it if a spring is broken.