Troubleshooting The Liftmaster Error Code 1-1 | A Homeowner’s Guide

Is your garage door acting up and displaying the diagnostic code 1 Up 1 Down? Don’t worry; we’re here to help you understand why this error occurs, what behaviors you might observe, and how to resolve the issue. This guide will walk you through the common symptoms and their corresponding solutions based on the amber and green LED lights on your garage door opener’s safety sensors.

Understanding Diagnostic Code 1 Up 1 Down

1. Why the Error is Occurring: The error code 1-1 is displayed when there is an issue with the safety sensors. This can be due to sensor obstruction, misalignment, disconnection, or wire breakage that lasts for more than 4 seconds.

2. Behaviors of the Door/Opener: When this error occurs, you might notice the following behaviors:

• The garage door starts in the fully open or stopped position.
• When the garage door attempts to close, it reverses to the open position.
• The garage door doesn’t move and remains in the open position.
• The Garage Door Opener refuses to close, and the opener lights flash or click 10 times.
• If no lights are installed, you will hear the opener click while attempting to flash the lights.

Note: Garage door openers or replacement logic boards manufactured after February 3, 2022, might not have this feature.

Symptoms and Resolutions Based on LED Lights

To determine the appropriate resolution for your situation, observe the status of the LED lights on the Sending (Amber) and Receiving (Green) Sensors.

Amber LED off, Green LED off

• Symptoms: Sensors are not installed, or they are not wired into the opener.
• Resolution:
  • Install the Safety Sensors if they are missing.
  • Properly connect wires at the opener if they are not wired in.

Amber LED on Solid, Green LED off

• Symptoms: Sensors are obstructed, or they are not aligned.
• Resolution:
  • Remove any obstructions between the Safety Sensors.
  • Realign the Safety Sensors. The Receiving (Green) Sensor should be solid to indicate proper alignment.

Amber LED on Solid, Green LED flickering

• Symptoms: Sensors are obstructed, or they are not aligned.
• Resolution:
  • Remove any obstructions between the Safety Sensors.
  • Realign the Safety Sensors. The Receiving (Green) Sensor should be solid to indicate proper alignment.

Additional Tips

• If you suspect wire issues:
  • Ensure wires are stripped back from insulation 7/16″.
  • Perform a tug test to ensure the wires are seated properly.
  • Identify cut or broken wires and replace them if necessary.
  • Perform a short wire test by wiring the safety sensors with a foot of wire. Replace wires if the sensors work or replace the sensors themselves.

Conclusion

Don’t let a garage door error code disrupt your day. By understanding the diagnostic code 1 Up 1 Down and following the symptoms and resolutions outlined in this guide, you can troubleshoot and resolve common garage door sensor issues with ease. Remember to prioritize safety and proper sensor alignment for a smoothly functioning garage door.