Are you thinking about getting a new garage door opener? You’ve got some important decisions to make. If it’s been years since you last made this kind of purchase, you might be amazed at how many choices there are to consider.
Below are some of the factors that will come into play when you’re trying to decide which garage door opener to purchase.
1. Smart Features
Some garage door openers now connect to WiFi and can be controlled by a push of a button – your cell phone button! This means you can open and close your garage door anywhere at any time, as long as you have access to WiFi or cell phone data.
Your garage door opener can also alert you when your garage door is left open at night – so you won’t forget to close the door before going to bed.
2. Drive Style
The first garage door openers were controlled by a chain drive. Chain drives are effective but can be noisy, and don’t work for every type of garage door. Now there are multiple drive styles that you can pick from, so you can choose the type of garage door that’s right for you.
- Chain drive. This tried and true technology has been around for years. Chain drives are cost-effective and inexpensive.
- Belt drive. Belt drives bring luxury to your garage because they have smooth action and quiet functionality. This is the perfect type of garage door opener if you’ve got an apartment over the garage.
- Screw drive. Screw drive openers are heavy-duty and can lift heavy doors easily. For heavy wooden doors and heavy double-width doors, screw drives are a perfect choice.
3. Noise
Some garage door openers are noisier than others. If your sleep is regularly disturbed by the sound of your garage door opening in the middle of the night, then talk to your garage door replacement professional about getting a garage door opener that will work for your lifestyle.
4. Capacity
How big is your garage door? If you have a big or heavy garage door, that will make a difference in the type of garage door opener that’s right for your home.
A garage door with lesser capacity may be able to function for a while but will burn out quickly. Your garage door replacement professional can help you choose the right opener for your door size.
Don’t buy a garage door opener with lesser capacity to save money. You may find yourself replacing your garage door opener quickly, and that could negate any savings.
5. Battery Backup
Consider purchasing a garage door opener with a battery backup feature. This is especially important in areas prone to power outages. The battery backup will ensure that you can still operate your garage door opener even if the power is out.
6. Remote Control Options
Look for a garage door opener that offers multiple remote control options. This can include a traditional handheld remote, a keypad mounted outside the garage door, and a smartphone app. Having multiple control options can make it easier to operate your garage door opener from wherever you are.
7. Maintenance Requirements
Consider the maintenance requirements of the garage door opener you are considering. Look for an opener that requires minimal maintenance and is easy to maintain. Regular maintenance, such as lubrication of moving parts, can help to extend the life of your garage door opener.
8. Brand Reputation
Finally, consider the reputation of the brand when choosing a garage door opener. Look for a brand that has a history of producing high-quality, reliable products. Reading reviews from other customers can also be helpful in determining the reliability of a specific garage door opener.
Need a New Garage Door Opener? Get Started Today
If you’re in need of a new garage door, work with the professionals to get the right door for your home. Call Overhead Garage Door Company of Oklahoma City. Our professionals can help you choose a garage door opener that fits the size of your door, your lifestyle, and your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best type of garage door opener depends on your specific needs and preferences. Chain drive openers are the most common and affordable, but they can be noisy. Belt drive openers are quieter but more expensive. Screw drive openers are a good balance between price and noise, and direct drive openers are the quietest but also the most expensive.
The amount of horsepower you need for your garage door opener depends on the size and weight of your garage door. For a standard residential garage door, a ½ horsepower motor is usually sufficient. If you have a heavier or oversized door, you may need a more powerful motor.
All garage door openers are required by law to have safety features that prevent the door from closing on people or objects. Look for a garage door opener that has infrared sensors that detect movement and can stop the door if something is in the way. Some openers also have rolling code technology that changes the code each time the opener is used, making it harder for intruders to access your garage.
While it is possible to install a garage door opener yourself, it is not recommended unless you have experience with home improvement projects. Garage door openers involve electrical wiring and can be dangerous to install, especially if you are not familiar with the installation process. It is best to hire a professional garage door installer to ensure that your new opener is installed safely and correctly.
The lifespan of a garage door opener can vary depending on the quality of the opener, the frequency of use, and the maintenance performed. On average, a well-maintained garage door opener can last between 10 to 15 years. Regular maintenance, such as lubricating the moving parts and replacing worn components, can help to extend the life of your opener.
