Guide to Choosing the Right Garage Door Opener
One of the first aspects to consider is the door type pairing with the opener.
Garage doors and their motors come in all shapes and sizes. Choosing the right motor to fit a door is more than just a personal preference; it can greatly impact how the entire door functions. Please keep reading to discover what features set them apart before purchasing.
Opener types
Garage door motors fall into roughly three groups of openers. Each is differently designed and works optimally with different types of doors:
Chain openers: Most homes have this type of opener; it's the most common type on the list. A chain moves the trolley that opens and closes the door. It's the most affordable type of opener but can be quite noisy.
Belt openers: These openers use a belt (usually rubber) to move the trolley. Compared to chains, they are much quieter but more expensive. The rubber belt will also decay over time and need a replacement.
Screw-drive opener: Owners looking for a balance between affordability and silent operation may consider this option. A threaded steel rod handles the opening and closing of the door.
Newer models of these motors can also come equipped with Wi-Fi access to enable operation by smart devices.
Door type
One of the first aspects to consider is the door type pairing with the opener. In the case of vertical doors, like a canopy garage, the motor will be contending with gravity and the door's weight. The slide to the side door needs a motor with strong push capabilities to complete the job. In contrast, rail-mounted sheets place less strain on the motor for a sectional door. So, consider each choice carefully.
Horsepower and weight
Opener motors can accommodate specific loads. As such, they come with different horsepower capabilities. A typical motor ranges in capacity from one-quarter horsepower to three-quarter horsepower. Stronger motors are more expensive but last longer and can handle heavier garage doors, like wood.
Using a lower power opener with a heavier door may work but will decrease its lifespan considerably. A professional garage door service can help you choose a suitable motor for your door and budget.
Warranty
A quality door opener should always come with a warranty. When choosing, check the included warranty and ensure it's valid for a substantial period. Do an online investigation into the opener's manufacturer beforehand and the customer support the company offers. Even better, ensure that service centers are close by.
Safety and security
The right door opener should always have safety as a top concern. Beyond the quality of the parts, it's essential to check whether potential openers have safety measures like sensors to prevent dangerous accidents with a home's residents, possessions, and vehicles. Consider openers with battery backup, which can be invaluable during an unexpected blackout.
Noteworthy, too, are the opener's additions to home security. Ensure the opener utilizes a rolling key system or other constantly changing code mechanism that stops criminals from gaining easy access. Some motors also come equipped with a "vacation mode," which blocks all door access for a specified time.
Proper installation
Using a proper garage door service to install a gate motor is a smart and safe idea. Garage door experts can perform a precise installation designed for your door. Moreover, their work is usually guaranteed, insured, and safety-compliant.
Phoenician Garage Door & Repair offers full-service garage installation, repair and maintenance in Maricopa County. Emergency service available. We are licensed, bonded, and insured. Call (602) 610-0112.
