Whether you’re looking to install an opener on a door which has never had one or simply replacing an old opener, there are multiple things to be considered.
The garage door opener seems like a simple and straightforward contraption. However, the rise of technology has influenced our options. Then, there’s also the concern of safety and maintenance.
Garage Door Opener
Factors to Consider When Buying a New Garage Door Opener
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Safety
If your garage door is closing and a pet or car is in its path of decent, you want it to automatically stop and reverse direction. This is a safety function which all garage doors are required to be equipped with.
Garage doors should feature two lasers on either side of the door, around 6 inches above floor level. If any object breaks this beam while the door is closing, it then triggers an automatic reversal.
If your garage door doesn’t have this feature or if it’s not working, you should consider replacing the opener. You can do a simple test to see if this function is working by waving an object in front of the sensors while the door is closing.
Security
Older garage doors open by hand or remote control and both can put you at risk. Having to get out of your car and open a door manually can be extremely dangerous — especially at night. A manual door also means that you don’t have an opener installed yet and considering one would be a good choice.
This guide can help you to filter through multiple options to make the best choice for your home. Remote controls are vulnerable because they operate with a fixed code and an intruder with a special device can acquire that code when you use the control. Some modern alternatives include:
HomeLink Connectivity
This feature can be installed in newer vehicles. This makes it possible to program a control built into your car to operate your garage door, front gate and security system with the press of a button.
Wireless Smart-Home Features
These allow the latest garage doors to connect with your cell phone. This enables you to control your door from a remote location and can even notify you when said door is open.
Noise
If your current opener is creating a ruckus when operated, it’s a good time to consider replacing it — your neighbors and household will thank you for it. And, if you don’t have an opener yet and are looking to install one, the noise level is to be considered.
The culprit of noisy operation is usually a chain drive. Other, quieter options include screwdriver or belt driven openers, and purplepatchdoors.com.au offers some fantastic choices.
Battery Backup
Have you ever had to cancel an important meeting because the power went out and your car ended up stuck in your garage? While most doors can be disconnected from their openers when there’s no electricity, not all doors have this ability.
Some new openers feature battery backup systems. These activate automatically whenever there’s a power outage. This will certainly keep you from missing important dates or being unable to leave your home in an emergency.
Maintenance
Your garage door opener is a low-maintenance utility. By lubricating the moving parts annually, you can get a good 15 – 20 years out of it. As mentioned, it’s a good idea to test the auto reverse feature occasionally. In addition, you should get a professional to look at the cables and rollers every few years and replace any parts if needed.
