What Is the Average Life of a Garage Door Opener?

The opener is a crucial component of an automatic garage door. As the name suggests, it’s a motorized device that opens and closes the garage door. Despite its vital role, many people neglect the garage door opener until it starts malfunctioning or breaks down. Knowing certain details can help prevent system failure, especially the average lifetime of garage door openers.

So, how long do garage doors typically last?

Garage door openers should last a good 10 to 15 years. However, this can be influenced by a number of factors.

Usage frequency

A garage door opener that’s used twice a day is more likely to last longer than one that sees heavier use. Those who open their garage doors many times throughout the day will probably have to replace the opener sooner.

Regular maintenance

Garage door maintenance is essential, especially for a garage door that’s used often. Lubricating the rollers, hinges, and springs can prevent rubbing, wearing down, and grinding. In addition, make sure to check if the chains, belts, nuts, and bolts are tight.

Inspecting the door for balance is another key point. Well-balanced garage doors are easier to open and put less strain on the moving parts. Most of these tasks are simple yet effective in extending the life of a garage door opener.

Type of opener

The life expectancy of garage door openers varies by type. There are three types in wide use today: screw-drive, belt-drive, and chain-drive.

While each has its pros and cons, belt-drive openers are usually the most durable. On average, they could last some three years longer than the others.

What are the signs of malfunctioning garage door openers?

A garage door opener will usually show several warning signs before it stops working. The moment you notice any of these red flags, disconnect the opener and contact a garage door specialist for a diagnosis:

Strange noises

The opener’s motor loses power over time and has a harder time lifting the door, resulting in unusual squeaking, clanging, or creaking.

Slow-moving doors

Garage doors should open or close immediately after pressing the remote button. But if it takes a few minutes, the opener may not be working correctly.

Vibration

As the opener begins to malfunction, the motor may start vibrating. At first, it can be almost unnoticeable, but gradually the motor will deteriorate until it needs replacing.

Garage doors won’t open

Many problems can lead to a non-functional garage door. The opener is most likely the culprit if there’s a humming sound and the system can’t seem to generate enough power to open the door.

Garage door openers do not last forever. But you can do your part in keeping it running efficiently for as long as possible by consulting a reputable garage door specialist.

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