Few things feel as convenient as a working automatic sliding door, which is perhaps why they are so frustrating when they are not working. As customers approach your door they note that the door is automatic subconsciously, and begin to expect a seamless experience. Their frustration when the door isn’t working is amplified by those expectations. So, understanding what can go wrong with your automatic doors and getting the issue resolved quickly when they are not working is important. Here are common problems with automatic sliding doors.

1. Power Problems

When there’s no power, the automatic door can’t operate. It might sound silly to check the on/off switch first if you’re experiencing automatic door issues, but you would be surprised at how often it’s the cause. And, then you save yourself the hassle of calling your commercial door technicians.

Of course, a flipped switch is not the only potential cause of power problems. You may have a blown fuse. Or there may have been damage to the power lines or the electrical circuit serving your doors. For the later, you’ll need a professional’s help to check.

2. Sensor Issues

If the doors do open, just not when you expect, or at the right time but too slowly, one of the potential problems is that something is wrong with the sensors. Potentially, the sensors may not have been set right, and the door may open too slowly or quickly as a result. However, if the doors used to open properly and no longer do, then something else may be going on.

One possible issue is that dust or dirt has collected on infrared or optical sensors. The dirt interferes with the sensor’s ability to detect things and may either slow down its response or trigger an open response when it there is nothing there. Regularly cleaning the sensors can prevent this.

If you clean off the sensors and they still seem broken, the issue is likely some kind of internal problem caused by either the wear-and-tear of old age or some kind of damage. Maybe someone hit the sensor with equipment, or maybe the sensors are just too old to be consistent. Either way, the solution is to have a professional replace the sensors.

3. Broken Motor

If the doors have power and the sensors are working, then it may be the more mechanical parts of the automatic door which have broken down. The motor needs to turn on and move the door, so if it has a worn out belt or some other problem then your door may not move when triggered. A professional can fix or replace the motor in your doors.

4. Damaged Rollers

The roller is another common part of automatic doors to get damaged and stop working. At the bottom of the door, the rollers are in a prime spot to receive damage from kicking or some other force. When broken, the rollers may drag along, slowing the door down. Or they may be so broken they won’t open at all. For this issue, you’ll need a professional commercial door technician’s help.

Our experts can help with any type of installation or fixing of automatic doors in Folsom and beyond.