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Quick answer
If the door only refuses to close at certain times of day, sunlight may be shining straight into the receiving sensor. LiftMaster's manual says: if the receiving sensor (green LED) faces direct sunlight, switch the sensors to opposite sides of the door. Chamberlain also sells a sunblocker kit for this.
Maker parts (check your opener's manual first):
LiftMaster 041-0136 safety sensor kitChamberlain 041B0873 sunblocker kitThree fixes, cheapest first
- Realign first. LiftMaster's manual lists clearing obstructions and aligning the sensors before the sunlight fix. Follow the realign steps, aiming for a steady green LED.
- Swap the sensors. LiftMaster's manual says to switch the sending and receiving sensors to opposite sides if the green sensor faces direct sun. Turn off power to the opener first, then reconnect and realign.
- Add a sunblocker. Chamberlain's 041B0873 kit is described as shielding the sensors to prevent the door reversing when sunlight shines directly into them. Chamberlain says to check your model's manual for compatibility.
When it might not be the sun
If the door won't close at any time of day, including at night, sunlight is an unlikely cause. Check alignment, obstructions and wiring. Start with won't close, light flashes.
Don't tape over the lenses. The sensors only protect people if the beam works. LiftMaster says this required safety device must not be disabled, and the beam must be no higher than 6 inches above the floor.
How we work: the swap-sides advice is from LiftMaster's 98022 manual; the sunblocker description is from Chamberlain's product page. We don't test garage door openers ourselves. Sources are listed below.
Questions people ask
Can sunlight stop a garage door from closing?
Yes. LiftMaster says if the receiving sensor faces direct sunlight, switch the sensors to opposite sides of the door.
What is a garage door sunblocker?
Chamberlain's 041B0873 kit shields the sensors so sunlight shining directly into them doesn't reverse the door.
Can I tape over the sensor?
No. LiftMaster says the safety reversing sensor must not be disabled.
Sources
Last checked Oct 23, 2026. Details come from LiftMaster's 98022 manual and sensor kit page and Chamberlain Group support. Never disable the sensors; test them after any fix.
