If your Craftsman garage door opener is blinking, it’s a sign that something is wrong with the unit. The blinking lights can indicate various issues, from safety sensor misalignment to electrical malfunctions. Understanding what each type of blink or flash means and knowing how to troubleshoot the problem can save you time and frustration. In this guide, we’ll break down the most common causes of blinking on a Craftsman garage door opener, provide solutions to fix these issues, and offer maintenance tips to keep your opener running smoothly.
Common Reasons Why Your Craftsman Garage Door Opener Is Blinking
If you’ve noticed the Craftsman garage door opener is blinking, it could be due to several different reasons. The number of blinks can indicate the specific issue, making it easier for you to identify and address the problem.
1. Safety Sensor Misalignment
One of the most frequent reasons for blinking lights on a garage door opener is an issue with the safety sensors. These sensors are located on each side of the garage door, near the floor. They work by sending an invisible beam across the door opening; if something disrupts this beam, the door won’t close as a safety measure.
- Symptoms: The opener lights blink multiple times when you attempt to close the door.
- Solution: Check that the sensors are aligned properly. There should be a small light on each sensor – if they are properly aligned, both lights will be solid. If one or both lights are blinking, gently adjust the sensors until both lights stay on.
2. Blocked Sensors
Sometimes, even if the sensors are aligned, an object or dirt can block the beam, causing the opener to blink.
- Symptoms: Similar to misalignment, the opener blinks and refuses to close the door.
- Solution: Make sure nothing is obstructing the path between the sensors. Clean the sensors with a soft cloth to remove any dust or debris that may be blocking the beam.
3. Electrical Issue or Power Surge
A power surge or an electrical issue may cause your Craftsman garage door opener to blink, as it might need to reset.
- Symptoms: Blinking lights following a recent power outage or electrical surge.
- Solution: Unplug the garage door opener from the outlet, wait about a minute, and then plug it back in. This can reset the unit and may stop the blinking.
Read too: Craftsman 3/4 HP Garage Door Opener Parts List
Craftsman Garage Door Opener Is Blinking – Troubleshooting by Number of Flashes
Understanding how many times your Craftsman garage door opener is blinking can help you determine the specific issue. Here’s a breakdown of common blinking patterns:
Two Blinks
- Indicates: The safety sensors are misaligned or blocked.
- Solution: Realign the sensors and ensure there are no obstructions.
Four Blinks
- Indicates: The opener’s motor is overheating or overused.
- Solution: Wait about 15-30 minutes for the motor to cool down, then try operating the door again. If the problem persists, consult the Craftsman manual for guidance, as this may require professional assistance.
Five Blinks
- Indicates: An issue with the circuit board.
- Solution: A blinking light on the circuit board itself may mean a malfunction. If resetting the opener doesn’t help, it may be necessary to replace the circuit board. This can be a more technical fix and may require a professional technician.
Ten Blinks
- Indicates: The battery backup needs attention.
- Solution: Check the battery backup for any signs of wear or corrosion. If the battery is old, replace it according to Craftsman’s recommendations. Many garage door openers come with a 12-volt battery backup that should be replaced every 1-2 years.
How to Fix Common Issues When Your Craftsman Garage Door Opener Is Blinking
If you’re dealing with a blinking opener, here are some detailed steps to resolve common issues:
Check the Safety Sensors
As previously mentioned, safety sensor issues are the leading cause of blinking in garage door openers. Here’s how to carefully check and fix them:
- Inspect the Sensor Wiring: Sometimes, wiring issues may cause blinking. Ensure the wires are connected and there’s no visible damage.
- Realign the Sensors: Slightly adjust the sensors to ensure they’re facing each other. Use a level if necessary.
- Clean the Sensor Lenses: Dust or grime can affect the sensor’s performance. Wipe the lenses with a clean, soft cloth to remove any buildup.
Reset the Opener
A quick reset can often resolve minor electrical issues or clear the blinking:
- Unplug the Opener: Disconnect the opener from power for at least a minute.
- Plug Back In: Reconnect the power and test the opener to see if the blinking has stopped.
Inspect the Garage Door Tracks
If your Craftsman garage door opener is blinking but you’ve ruled out sensor issues, check the door’s tracks for any obstructions. Debris or slight warping can prevent the door from closing, triggering the opener’s safety response:
- Clean the Tracks: Use a soft cloth or a brush to remove any dirt or debris.
- Check for Alignment: If the tracks are slightly out of alignment, use a rubber mallet to gently tap them back into place.
Consult the Manual
Craftsman garage door openers come with a troubleshooting guide in the manual. If you’re unsure what the blinking indicates, refer to the guide for insights on specific blinking patterns.
Preventing Future Blinking Issues with Your Craftsman Garage Door Opener
Regular maintenance and troubleshooting can prevent future problems. Here are some tips:
1. Regularly Inspect and Clean the Sensors
Keep the sensor area clean and ensure nothing is obstructing the path. Inspect the alignment every few months.
2. Replace the Batteries Annually
If your model has a battery backup, replace the battery annually or as recommended. A weak battery can affect performance and cause unnecessary blinking.
3. Lubricate Moving Parts
Keeping the garage door’s moving parts well-lubricated helps prevent wear and tear. Lubricate the hinges, springs, and rollers every six months with a silicone-based lubricant.
4. Inspect Wiring Regularly
Loose or damaged wiring can interfere with sensor performance and cause blinking. Check the wires around the motor and sensors to ensure they’re secure and in good condition.
When to Call a Professional
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, the issue may require professional help. If you’ve followed the above steps and the blinking persists, it could be a sign of a more complex problem with the opener’s internal components. In these cases, reaching out to a certified garage door technician is advisable to avoid further damage.
Conclusion
Seeing that your Craftsman garage door opener is blinking can be frustrating, but understanding what the blinks mean and how to troubleshoot can make resolving the issue much easier. From realigning safety sensors to resetting the unit, these steps should cover most common problems. Regular maintenance, including cleaning the sensors, lubricating moving parts, and inspecting wiring, can also help prevent future blinking issues.
A Craftsman garage door opener is designed for durability, but like any appliance, it benefits from proper care. With a bit of regular maintenance and some basic troubleshooting, you can keep your garage door opener functioning reliably and smoothly.