Top 10 Best Garage Door Openers (Reviews & Buyers’ Guide 2022)
Engineer Warehouse Engineer Warehouse is an expert in professional tools and equipment for home and technical use. We recommend products and services based on unbiased research from our editorial team. We have reviewed thousands of products ranging from classic models, new releases, and innovative technologies. Our articles provide objective insights into what will make a smart investment for customers like you. We may receive compensation if you click on a link. Last updated on May 27, 2022.
- Best Garage Door Opener for sale in 2022; generally easy to install
- Connecting to myQ app unlocks a ton of remote control capabilities
- Door sensor sends low battery notifications via myQ app
- Best three-door garage door opener
- Max Lift Power system affords a 1.25 HP lifting force
- Remote uses an exclusive TriBand technology for range extension
- Garage door opener can open up to three doors
- Features a 1.25 HP Geniesense DC Motor
- Has access to multiple remote features via Aladdin Connect
- Comes with a Battery Backup to counter power interruption
- Uses a steel-reinforced belt drive for quiet operation
- Utilizes Chamberlain’s MED Lift Power System for effortless lifting operation
- Wireless keypad has Security+ 2.0 software integration
- Can accommodate 7-foot high garage doors
- Equipped with a heavy-duty chain drive system
- Can access multiple remote features via Aladdin Connect
- Relatively easy to install according to multiple users
- Has wall-mount capability to save functional space
- Has access to multiple remote features via myQ app
- Features a 5-Rail Assembly system for easy installation
- Has a self-diagnostic Safe-T Beam system for security
- Can connect to Homelink and other car systems for remote capability
- Delivers noise-free operations
- Uses soft start-and-stop technology for longer operating life
- Has a built-in 12W LED light for illumination
- Uses a powerful 0.5 HP motor for powerful lifting
- Can freely connect with Homelink for remote control
- Rugged steel construction of chain drive ensures durability
- Generally considered lightweight
- Has a sustainable 1500 Lumen-LED lightbulb to illuminate the garage
- Wireless Door Sentry alerts the user of possible intrusion
Tired of opening and closing your garage door manually? Then try bringing home a garage door opener instead. This innovative motorized device is designed to help customers mechanically lift their garage doors via a control switch.
C.G Johnson invented the first electric overhead garage door opener in 1926. Years after the invention, manufacturers started to popularize openers among homeowners with functional garages. Over the years, innovations and updates to this essential home device made is safer, intuitive, and relevant to modern settings. Notable features force sensors, improved closing speeds improved, remote control, and smartphone pairing. These technological advancements have made garage door openers a staple in modern American homes.
Engineer Warehouse has created a comprehensive product guide to help you find great options of garage door openers at great prices. Our guide features ten of the best performing models in the market and we deep-dive into their features and performance to help you decide which one works for your needs. We also included frequently asked questions to address long-running issues and enlighten you at the same time.
Our Criteria
Before listing our top selections, our seasoned experts at Engineer Warehouse took the time to individually assess the products’ performance through a series of tests and design reviews. These tests follow a set of criteria that determines their worth and ranking as well. By conducting them, we can provide a reliable and non-biased recommendation to our dear readers.
Our garage door openers have been selected and evaluated according to these four relevant criteria: Motor Size, Remote Features, Security Features, and Installation.
Motor Size: The motor size is often the standard by which garage door openers are chosen. It determines the opener’s lifting power to hoist different garage doors from a closed position. Typically, the larger the motor size, the more powerful the opener is. Evaluating its efficiency after repeated uses helps us determine the opener’s overall performance and reliability.
Remote Features: Since garage door openers are best used remotely, it is only appropriate to evaluate the features that come with the the remote control. These features enhance the user experience by letting the customers control the opener from afar. Common features include input commands, user notifications, and compatibility with common car systems.
Security Features: Garage door openers not only open and close doors but also provide essential security measures to safeguard your home. These added features further improve their overall functionality by preventing intruders from breaking in easily. Looking at these closely helps you evaluate the better purchase.
Installation: Garage door openers can be quite tricky to install, especially when homeowners do not have prior experience. By gauging their installation difficulty, we can easily determine how accessible they are when it comes to technical aspects.
View the Best Garage Door Openers in the Market Below:
Key Features | Can monitor and control up to two garage doors at the same time |
Installation and programming are easy; works on both Apple and Android | |
Can access its features via myQ app | |
Can remotely open and close doors even with low Wi-Fi signal | |
Has a built-in SmartHub to receive different user notifications | |
Garage door sensors communicate with the SmartHub to send alerts | |
Batteries | 1 Lithium Metal battery required (included) |
Product Dimensions | 0.88 x 2.63 x 2.63” |
Color | White |
Best Overall Garage Door Opener
The Chamberlain MYQ-G0402 Garage-Door-Sensor easily bests competitors for the Best Garage Door Opener of 2022. The product came out on top of the best seller rankings on Amazon while also acquiring a 4.4-star rating.
The compact hardware is generally easy to install; just mount it to the inside top panel of your garage door and you’re good to go. Easy, right?
You can benefit from the product’s features by connecting it to the myQ app. The app works great on both Android and Apple, so you don’t need to worry about compatibility.
If you have the app downloaded already, open it, and access the features directly via the control panel. Otherwise, you need to download it to enjoy numerous remote capabilities.
By connecting to the app, you can take full advantage of its Smart Garage Control panel. It allows you to closely monitor door status from afar, and remotely open and close the door as you approach the garage. Even two bars of 2.4Ghz WiFi signal (according to user reviews) are already enough for consistent operation. This feature is quite handy especially during snowstorms, as you can slowly park inside the garage while it fully opens.
Smart Garage Control isn’t limited to one garage door and can be used to control a second one.
Another interesting feature of the product is its garage door sensors. They communicate with the built-in Smart Hub through Bluetooth to indicate both door operation and open/close status. Since the smart garage door opener runs on battery, these sensors can automatically send alert notifications through the myQ app whenever it drops close to 20%.
Key Features | Can control up to three doors at a time |
Has a built-in myQ technological features that can be accessed via app | |
App allows customers to receive user notifications | |
Equipped with a Battery Backup ready for a power outage | |
Powered by a proprietary Max Lift Power system with a lifting force of 1.25 HP | |
Has a reinforced steel belt drive that runs quietly during operation | |
Equipped with a Tri-Band technology to boost remote range up to 1500 feet | |
Batteries | 2 Lithium Metal batteries required (included) |
Product Dimensions | 18 x 10 x 6.5” |
Color | Blue |
Placing second on the list is also a Chamberlain product, the Chamberlain B970T Smart Garage Door Opener with Battery Backup. This smart garage door opener has been a staple in American households and boasts a 4.8-star rating on Amazon. It can control up to three doors, which makes it ideal for large garages capable of occupying at least two cars (according to multiple user reviews).
The B970T model comes with a built-in myQ technology that allows you to conveniently control it from anywhere. To fully enjoy its features, users may install the myQ app on their phones to access all configurations and controls. The app also allows the user to control door operation, receive battery notifications, and monitor door status.
Another feature of the B970T Model is its Battery Backup. It automatically reroutes the supply to its garage door opener battery to ensure a smooth transition whenever there is a power outage.
Chamberlain powers the smart garage opener with its proprietary Max Lift Power System, which allows it to deliver a lifting force equivalent to 1.25 HP. The value is the highest in the powerlifting category—optimal for extreme working conditions.
Its steel-reinforced belt drive runs discreetly during operation and is not liable to break down easily. The incorporation of high-grade materials can assure customers of reliable and smooth operations that can last for several years.
Buying the product includes two safety sensors that can be separately installed from the main unit. It is generally recommended to place it near the door since it detects incoming obstructions. They are designed to automatically retract the door before causing any further damage.
As for coverage, the exclusive TriBand technology extends the remote range up to 1500 feet. With this, quicker entry times can be achieved.
Key Features | Features a 1 ¼ HP Geniesense DC motor with a reinforced steel belt drive for quiet operations |
Features a 5-Piece Rail Assembly system for quick installation | |
Lets you receive user notifications such as door status and low battery via its Aladdin Connect app | |
Alladin Connect Technology allows voice as input commands | |
Comes with a Battery Backup feature for power interruptions | |
Has two three-button remote controls for manual door operation, wireless keypad for PIN security, and a multi-function wall console with vacation lock and control button | |
Batteries | 5 Lithium Metal batteries required (included) |
Product Dimensions | 8.5 x 12 x 28” |
Color | Black/White |
The Genie Company has been mass-producing quality products for years, and it’s not surprising that its Stealth Drive Connect 7155-TKV Model made the 2022’s Best Garage Door Opener list. The heavy-duty garage door opener boasts a 4.6-star rating atop its Amazon’s Choice award.
This Genie garage door opener features a 1.25 HP Geniesense DC Motor that runs with a reinforced steel belt drive; this powerful combination allows for a quick and smooth operation of vehicular entry. The entire operation also is noise-free—perfect for garages with adjacent rooms or nearby nurseries.
Installing the garage door opener will only take up minutes, as its durable 5-Piece Rail Assembly system quickly snaps in together. Power tools are no longer needed.
The 7155-TKV model is equipped with Aladdin Connect Technology. It conveniently allows the user various capabilities such as opening and closing the garage door, monitoring door status, and receiving low battery notifications—all of which can be accessed through the Aladdin Connect app.
What’s even better is that upgrades on the Aladin Connect Technology allow voice as input commands for the garage door opener. Simply hook up any smart home system assistant such as Amazon’s Alexa or Google Home to fully operate via voice commands.
The product also comes with a Battery Backup feature. During power interruptions, it will automatically reroute the primary supply to the backup garage door opener battery allowing for 50 more cycles before completely running out.
As for the accessories, the Genie Stealthdrive Connect comes with two pre-programmed three-button remote controls for manual door control, a wireless keypad that supports PIN security, and a multi-function wall console that includes a vacation lock and light button.
Key Features | Uses a steel-reinforced belt drive for quiet operations |
Features a MED Lift Power system with ½ HP lifting power | |
Lets users connect with the myQ app to access remote features such as door status and user addition | |
Features a wireless keypad with Security 2.0+ software integration | |
Comes with an external dual-function wall panel that can only be accessed from the inside | |
Batteries | 2 Lithium Metal battery required (included) |
Product Dimensions | 18 x 10 x 6.5” |
Color | Blue |
The Chamberlain B550 Smart Garage Door Opener is another product worthy of a purchase. Coming from the famed Chamberlain brand, the B550 Model averages a rare 4.7-star rating on Amazon.
The smart garage door opener is made of high-quality materials and uses a steel-reinforced belt drive for a relatively quiet operation. The belt drive is also capable of running more than a thousand cycles without producing creaks. This alone makes it a highly recommended product for homeowners.
The B550 model is equipped with Chamberlain’s MED Lift Power System that allows for strong lifting mechanisms. The signature power system gives the model a 0.5 HP lifting power—enough for quick and effortless lifting operations.
To unlock its potential, users can pair the Chamberlain B550 garage door opener is accessible and controllable with the myQ app. The app provides access to multiple remote features which include receiving real-time notifications about door operation and inviting up to three people for additional access.
In terms of security, the B550 Model has a wireless keypad with Security+ 2.0 software integration. The 100-billion code encryption prevents unauthorized persons from hacking the garage door opener. Additionally, it also features Posi-lock anti-theft protection that blocks any attempts of forced entry.
To add another layer of security, purchasing the item gives you an external dual-function wall control panel that lets you access the door only from the inside.
Key Features | Perfect for garages with wide-open spaces; can accommodate up to 7-foot doors |
Equipped with a heavy-duty chain drive system that can last for years of operations | |
Has a Bright 2-Light System to illuminate the garage | |
Features a 5-Piece Rail Assembly system for easy installation; users can consult the Bilt app by Genie for further information | |
Works well with the Aladdin Connect App for multiple remote features such as door monitoring | |
Capable of wireless connectivity to accommodate built-in car systems such as Homelink and Car2U | |
Uses an Intellicode Access Security system to protect against invaders | |
Has a Safe T-Beam system that detects any moving object to prevent damage | |
Batteries | 4 CR2 batteries required (included) |
Product Dimensions | 116 x 12 x 8.5” |
Color | White |
A product of excellent engineering, the Genie Chain Drive 550 Model 2035-TKV Garage Door Opener lands at the number five spot. The product is perfect for garages with wide-open spaces and can accommodate 7-foot high doors.
The Genie garage door opener is equipped with a heavy-duty chain drive system and engineered to produce a noise-free operation. A reliable piece for any household, the 2035-TKV unit can last for several years of operation thanks to its high-grade premium components.
If you have a smartphone, you can have complete control over the garage door opener. Simply install the Aladdin Connect app, and enjoy multiple remote features with just one click. Users have the freedom to open and close their garage doors from afar via the app and continuously monitor it.
The Genie Chain Drive 550 Model 2035-TKV can wirelessly connect with popular built-in car systems such as Homelink and Car2U. If you unknowingly left your smartphone at home, you can instead rely on this feature.
The garage door opener also features a Bright 2 Light system to illuminate the garage during the night. It can act as a guide for homeowners when parking their cars inside, or simply just a source of light when working on the bench.
The garage door opener isn’t far behind when it comes to security.
The garage door opener features an Intellicode Access Security System that uses rolling code technology. Whenever the opener is activated via remote, it creates billions of possible code combinations to automatically update the security system.
Another security feature is its Safe-T Beam system. It functions as a motion sensor that detects any moving object that passes through the LED beam. If something has been detected, it automatically reverses the closing of the garage door.
In terms of installation difficulty, the garage door opener comes as easy due to its 5-Piece Rail Assembly system. The feature lets it quickly snap onto the mounting bar and doesn’t require any added hardware. Also, the chain comes in pre-assembled making it even easier to install.
For more installation queries, you may refer to the instruction manual that comes with the product upon purchase. Alternatively, you can download the Bilt app by Genie for a thorough and interactive installation experience. From there, you can easily follow the step-by-step instructions presented in 3D. Pretty neat.
Key Features | Fully wall-mounted garage door opener |
Relatively easy to install | |
Its compact size frees up more ceiling space than other garage door openers | |
Produces lesser vibrations and eliminates noise during operation | |
Works with myQ app to receive real-time user notifications such as door status and battery level | |
Comes with an Auto-Lock feature that deadbolts the door every time it closes | |
Equipped with safety sensors that reverse closing operations whenever they detect nearby objects | |
Batteries | 1 Lithium Metal battery required (included) |
Product Dimensions | 6.85 x 6.01 x 16.25” |
Color | Black |
As the first wall-mounted garage door opener, the Chamberlain Model RJO20 Smart Garage Door Opener is highly recommended for users who want to conveniently save functional space.
The smart garage door opener has quite the credentials to be considered a great buy; the product scored an Amazon’s Choice label and has an average rating of 4.7-stars. It also has a lot of positive reviews, with numerous users agreeing on one thing: the product is “relatively easy to install”.
Since it is a wall-mounted garage door opener, the RJO20 Model is pretty accessible by anyone. Its compact design makes it easy to mount on tight spaces and frees up some ceiling space that a traditional garage door opener would typically occupy.
Since it latches onto walls, the RJO20 Model produces lesser vibrations and eliminates noise during operation. This advantage makes it ideal for an attached garage.
You can have complete control over the RJO20 Model with the myQ app. Install it using your smartphone to access multiple remote features. With the app, you can open or close the doors and receive real-time notifications such as door status and battery level. Friends and family can also have secure access to the garage door opener as the myQ app lets you invite up to three people.
As for security, the wall-mounted garage door opener comes with an Auto-Lock feature. It automatically deadbolts the garage door every time it closes, producing a clicking sound to indicate successful closure. Also, its safety sensors provide another layer of security by reversing closing operations whenever they detect nearby objects.
Key Features | Features a 5-Piece Rail Assembly system that allows easy installation |
Its powerful ½ HP motor requires little-to-no maintenance | |
Equipped with a self-diagnostic Safe-T Beam that detects any incoming object or person | |
Can be connected to built-in car systems for full remote control | |
Batteries | N/A |
Product Dimensions | 30 x 14 x 10” |
Color | Black |
The highly recommended Genie Chain Drive 500 Garage Door Opener secures the seventh spot for the Best Garage Door Openers of 2022. The traditional garage door opener boasts a 4.6-star average rating on Amazon and is known for durability and its continuous noise-free operation.
The Chain Drive 500 Model garage door opener can be installed easily, thanks to its 5-Piece Rail Assembly system. The feature is capable of quickly latching onto the mounting bar and snaps together, with virtually no power tools or any additional hardware required.
The durability of this heavy-duty garage door opener is hard to match. Despite being subjected to everyday usage, the factory assembled chain remains clean and has only minimal dents according to some user reviews. Its powerful ½ HP motor inside requires little to no maintenance making it a wise choice for thrifty users.
Security-wise, the Genie garage door opener does not lag behind its competitors.
The product comes with a self-diagnostic Safe-T Beam system which helps avoid unwanted accidents. The system deploys an invisible infrared beam across the door opening; if the beam detects a foreign object or a person, it automatically reverses the closing of the door.
The Genie Chain Drive 500 can be connected to built-in car systems. Systems such as HomeLink and Car2U are highly compatible with the quiet garage door opener, giving the user full control whilst inside the car.
Key Features | Uses a ½ HP motor to deliver maximum performance |
Motor is paired with a durable chain drive for a smooth, quiet operation | |
Uses a soft start-and-stop technology to lengthen operating life of internal parts | |
Has a built-in 12W LED light to illuminate the garage | |
Boasts a backup battery to provide alternate power in case there is a power interruption | |
Comes with an external keypad for security purposes | |
Has a keychain remote to operate the opener | |
Batteries | N/A |
Product Dimensions | 27.5 x 8 x 4.5” |
Color | White |
As the first product not coming from either Chamberlain or Genie, the SKYLINK Atoms ATR-1611C 1/2HPF Garage Door Opener is truly a remarkable product with a 4.4-star rating to its name.
The Atoms ATR-1611C smart garage door opener is equipped with a powerful ½ HP motor. The specially-engineered hardware is capable of delivering maximum performance. The internal motor is paired with a durable chain drive to consistently bring reliable operations while also operating noise-free.
The quiet garage door opener uses a soft start-and-stop technology; the feature enables the chain to gradually accelerate to full speed and slows down to a hard stop. In this way, vibration is greatly reduced and lengthens the operating life of internal moving parts.
Its seven-foot rail is very useful for seven-foot garage doors. If you have doors beyond that height, consider buying extension kits (XR-008 for eight-foot doors & XR-010 for ten-foot doors).
The ATR-1611C model has a built-in 12W LED light to provide illumination around the garage. The LED light can be used on several occasions, as its extended life cycle can already eliminat ethe need to replace the lightbulb ever again.
A backup battery (Model BA-100) can provide alternate power should the household encounter a power interruption. The only drawback is that the batteries are sold separately—probably a letdown for some.
the product comes with an external keypad (Model KN-318), which acts as a lock and helps provide a layer of security. The user inputs a custom combination on the keypad, which in turn will block entry if typed incorrectly.
Another security feature of the product is its three-button keychain remote. Only the one holding the remote can freely operate the opening and closing of the garage door. It’s quite similar to having a car key.
Features | Relies on its ½ HP motor for a huge lifting power |
Has a dual-lens panel to accommodate lightbulbs for illumination | |
Connecting to myQ app grants the opener remote capabilities | |
Can connect with Homelink remote system to open and close the door from afar | |
Comes with an external keypad for passwords, preventing hackers from invading your home | |
Batteries | N/A |
Product Dimensions | 18 x 6 x 10” |
Color | Red |
A product of excellence, the CRAFTSMAN Model CMXEOCG471 1/2 HP Smart Garage Door Opener claims the ninth spot of the Top 10 Best Garage Door Openers of 2022. The highly efficient garage door opener consistently gets high praises from customers; its 4.7-star rating can attest to that.
The Model CMXEOCG471 uses an incredible ½ HP motor to deliver huge amounts of lifting power. The installed internal motor is super reliable, capable of lifting garage doors up to seven feet in length. If you have garage doors measuring more than seven feet, better buy extension kits to suit your needs—Craftsman does offer eight and ten feet variants.
Rugged steel construction of the chain drive ultimately makes it durable and reliable. Pairing it with the ½ HP motor ensures peak performance for everyday use.
The product has a dual-lens panel capable of holding lightbulbs for illuminating the entire garage. However, lightbulbs are sold separately—a complete bummer for those needing them.
This smart garage door opener is home to many key features, but the best one yet is its remote capability. The myQ app grants you access to the product’s wireless features. Simply install the app on your smartphone and enjoy a wide range of features such as real-time notifications, current door status, and opening and closing of the garage door.
The garage door opener can also connect with the in-vehicle remote system Homelink. Using this feature allows you to open and close the door from the comfort of your car seat.
The product also has security features to stay ahead of the competition. It comes with an external keypad for typing in numeric passwords. Every time the keypad is activated, an access signal is sent from billions of possible numeric combinations to prevent signal interceptions. With this, hackers can’t easily decode the correct combination.
Key Features | Lightweight garage door opener |
Has a ¾ HP motor powerful enough to open a seven-foot garage door | |
Houses an LED lightbulb with a 1500 lumen rating | |
Pairing it with the beamUP app grants access to remote features such as user preferences and viewing door history | |
Wireless Door Sentry alerts the user when someone is trying to open the door multiple times | |
Batteries | 1 Lithium Metal battery required (included) |
Product Dimensions | 12.4 x 10 x 6.7” |
Color | White |
The BeamUP Workhorse BU100 Garage Door Opener completes the list of the Best Garage Door Openers of 2022. An excellent choice for many, the smart garage door opener has a staggering 4.5-star rating on Amazon.
At 0.01 pounds, the product is generally considered lightweight. Not many garage door openers have this value, as most weigh more than 10 pounds. However, despite its weight, the Workhorse BU100 brings a ton of features for customers who decide to take it home.
The Workhorse BU100 model is equipped with a robust ¾ HP motor—powerful enough to open a seven-inch tall garage door yet highly reliable. A motor with that capacity can last long enough without needing regular maintenance. Pair it with a durable, reinforced-steel chain drive and you just got yourself a product of great value.
Unlike some heavy-duty garage door openers, the Workhorse BU100 model is quite easy to install. For reference, all BeamUP products come with step-by-step installation guides and product manuals. If you have queries beyond the guides, a telephone support system is readily available.
The Workhorse BU100 model also houses a sustainable LED lightbulb. The bulb’s 1500 lumen rating can sufficiently provide great illumination in the whole garage. Plus, it’s also energy-efficient meaning it could last for several years—replacing it wouldn’t be an option.
As for wireless capability, the product is entirely compatible with all generations of Homelink—no repeaters are required. If your car has a built-in Homelink system, the Workhorse BU100 can take good advantage of this.
Additionally, the product can seamlessly connect with the BeamUP app. The app is available online; download and install the app on your smartphone and unlock tons of features to maximize the user experience. Features include opening and closing the garage door, viewing door history, managing user preferences, and granting other individuals access to the garage door opener.
Coming from the same app, the Wireless Door Sentry offers real-time security and sends notifications when someone is prying open the garage door repeatedly.
A swipe of a finger is all it takes to access these amazing features.
FAQs
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What To Look For In Garage Door Openers
Several factors come into play when choosing your next garage door opener. If you want the best one for your garage then you should consider the following: Motor Size, Remote Features, and Security Features.
Motor Size
Don't make the mistake of buying a new garage door opener without first considering the motor. It is widely known as the centerpiece of your opener, powering the chain or belt drive during operation. Without a motor, your garage door opener won’t function at all.
A decent garage door opener should be at least rated ½ HP. It is the most popular power rating in openers and should be enough to easily lift most garage doors.
However, if you have money to spare, you can opt for a larger motor. Openers equipped with a ¾ HP motor are more efficient and can open garage doors much faster. Furthermore, they tend to last longer than your average opener.
Garage door openers with a motor size greater than ¾ HP belong to a top-tier category. They have the best efficiency and are capable of lifting heavy doors weighing more than 400 pounds. Their powerful motor also causes them to work faster with less effort.
Most modern openers operate quietly thanks to advancements in engineering design. They are highly recommended for houses with an adjacent garage. Although the noise they generate is tolerable, lubricating internal metal components can help further reduce noise. Installing noise insulators between the motor block and the metal brace is also a good option; however, the job is best left to the professionals.
Remember, the larger the motor size you prefer, the more expensive it can be. Don’t fall for cheap garage door openers out there—they’re usually a trap to lure gullible customers into buying them.
Remote Features
Garage door openers are best used remotely. Their wireless capability makes them one of the most sought-after instruments in the garage. And since technology evolves as time progresses, expect to have more remote features added in the future.
But before you get excited about them, the first thing you would want to check is compatibility. To access the remote features, you will have to connect the opener to your smartphone or a car system. Pairing the opener successfully with either option gives you the freedom to execute any of the available user commands.
Next, check with the manufacturer’s website the list of features that come with the garage door opener. That way, you can easily filter out the options you would frequently use. Basics such as opening and closing the door, and door status notifications are necessary and shouldn’t be left out. A user addition feature isn’t exactly that important, although it can come in handy in case you forget your password.
Security Features
Although garage doors are much larger compared to the front and back doors, they are still points of entry to your home. Intruders can get inside your house through the garage if it is left unlocked. Fortunately, modern garage door openers feature security measures that can prevent a possible home invasion and ensure the safety of your car.
To prevent unauthorized access, your garage door opener should have a real-time security system. It could be in the form of a wireless keypad, a remote, or an app. Those that use rolling code combination technology are much preferred, given that hackers will repeatedly pry open the door electronically. This may be optional, but if you can find an opener that deadbolts the door automatically once it closes, then you should consider that too.
Along with those security measures, your opener should also come with motion sensors and a functional light system. Together, they prevent accidents, maintain good operational function, and give you bright light when entering or exiting the garage at night.
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What Are The Types Of Garage Door Openers?
A mainstay in American households, garage door openers come in three different types: Chain Drive, Screw Drive, and Belt Drive. They work the same, except for the way the motor drives the trolley.
The chain drive is the most popular type of garage door opener and is also the least expensive among the three types. It utilizes a durable metal chain to move the trolley and execute door commands. Although its operation is relatively fast, the combined noise and vibration it generates may not sit well with other customers.
The screw drive has the fastest operating speed and is perhaps the most powerful type. It is often used in garages with large and heavy doors, primarily because of its power capacity. The motor acts as the trolley and travels across the rail to either raise or lower down the door.
The belt drive produces a quiet yet smooth performance. It works similarly with a chain drive but uses a belt instead of a metal chain. Because its operation produces less noise and vibrations, the belt drive is highly recommended for garages directly attached to the house.
Not all types of garage door openers can fit well with other garages thus it’s better to consult a professional first before buying one. Also, purchasing a specific type for your garage doesn’t mean it’s well above the others.
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How Long Do Garage Door Openers Last?
A garage door opener can last for about 10 to 15 years on average. Depending on usage, your model may or may not exceed those figures. However, keeping it well-oiled through regular maintenance should extend it for a few more years.
Unfortunately, some models do not even reach five years of operation. They either use substandard materials or are plagued with multiple factory defects. Investing time in research and reading through customer reviews should help you prevent such inconvenience.
If your garage door opener has served you for a good decade or so, it probably has shown a decline in performance a couple of times in between. Broken and worn components are prevalent in aging openers, considering most homeowners use them at least 1500 times a year. Getting a replacement would be a smart idea since newer models tend to be safer, quieter, and more convenient.
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How Long Do Batteries Last In Garage Door Openers?
The battery of a garage door opener can last up to two years, with moderate usage and proper battery care. When you are notified by the battery status LED indicating a battery replacement, you better have a spare one ready. Replacing the garage door opener battery is easy and should only take a few minutes.
Most users would prefer top-rated garage door openers with battery backup because they are useful in case of power interruptions.
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Should I Hire A Professional Garage Door Opener Installer?
Are you confident that you can install a garage door opener by yourself? If so, you will need some basic handyman skills such as using a screwdriver, socket wrench, and a ladder to perform the job. You better seek assistance for certain tasks though, particularly when raising and mounting the garage door opener to the ceiling. Without help, the installation might take longer than expected.
A garage door opener installation normally takes about 4-6 hours, normally taking longer for first-time users and DIY installations. But if you have prior experience, you should be able to do it faster. Installing the opener by yourself adds up to the experience and helps you avoid paying for the services of a professional.
However, if spending that much time doesn’t seem worth it, you can always call for help. Availing of professional installation services can cost you anywhere from $100 to $200. The fees largely depend on the size of your garage door and the things you might require.
Best Practices
Garage door openers are usually operated multiple times a day to accommodate different types of garages. While they are extremely useful and reliable, repeated use without regular maintenance can cause them to falter in performance. As a customer, you wouldn’t want that to happen, especially in times when you need them the most. You must take the necessary steps to keep them running smoothly for years to come. Below are some of the best practices when using a garage door opener.
The first thing you need to do is to observe how your garage door opener works, from start to finish. A visual inspection can help you find foreign objects that could be stuck internally during operation. They may be the cause as to why the opener operates so slow or produces creaking sounds.
You may also do another visual inspection, but this time of the garage door itself. Check the springs, pulleys, and cables of the door if they look symmetrical or aligned with each other. Be careful with the cables though—they are high-tension and can seriously injure if not handled properly. Also, clear off any obstruction near it to ensure that opening and closing the door comes off smoothly.
Check your garage door opener’s lubrication levels. Insufficient lubrication can put unnecessary strain on the motor, causing it to work twice as hard. Doing this for extended periods can severely damage the motor. Pro tip: ask a technician what lubricant works best for your unit. You can either lubricate the parts yourself or with the help of a professional.
If your opener has a battery backup feature, then should check its battery status. A garage door opener battery can stay functional even after a year, but it pays to have it checked once in a while. It is advised to only replace when necessary.
Inspect the garage door sensors that come with your opener. Since they are usually placed near the door, sensors become susceptible to fogging, especially during cold weather. Fogged sensors have reduced detection and can mistakenly identify nothing for something. Miscommunication between these sensors and the opener itself can lead to malfunction. Fortunately, you only have to wipe off the lens with a clean cloth and they’re ready to go.
Try using the garage door opener’s auto-reverse function once in a while. This ensures that the function still works even when used seldomly. Find a large, solid object and put it in the way of the garage door. If the reverse function isn’t triggered during the test, then you might want to have your unit replaced or checked by a professional.
Performing these practices regularly not only lengthens the service of openers but also ensures your safety. They can seriously injure anyone if used incorrectly. If you are not confident doing these by yourself, better call for professional help.
Conclusion
Garage door openers are a good investment, especially if you have picked the right one for your home. They may come expensive, but the convenience they bring outweighs the price by a mile.
When buying garage door openers, you must consider the size of your garage door. The larger the door is, the more power it usually requires. Some openers are a better fit than others, especially in terms of their lifting capacity. You should also consider the environment you’re in. Garage door openers tend to generate varying noise levels, mostly attributed to their type. If you’re situated inside a populated area, better get one that operates quietly. Take your time to consider your options and read more about them to avoid buyer’s regret.