April 3, 2015

Comparing Garage Door Openers – Which is Best for You?

If there’s anything that has changed in the world of garage doors over the course of the last 10 years, it’s the garage door openers. Their evolution has followed technological advances such as miniaturization of the components and smart system integration.

If there are two basic criteria that should be kept in mind before purchasing a new door opener, they would be the frequency with which you use your garage door and the soundness of the system components. The more you use it, the more you should opt for quality. And of course, there’s the budget you’re prepared to assign to such a purchase.

You can purchase your door opener at a superstore, where price is the most important factor. You can also buy it from a garage door specialist, where durability and the quality of the components are important.

What kinds of garage door openers are out there?

  • The vast majority of garage door openers are installed in the center of the door. These are known as “trolley type” openers.
  • In certain cases (e.g. a lack of clearance space above the door), a Jackshaft type door opener that is installed on the sides is strongly suggested.

Motor power

  • When it comes to AC‑powered motors, the door opener starts off slowly, picks up speed and then slows to a finish. The force isn’t measured in horsepower, but instead in Newtons (usually 800 or 900, which is equivalent to ½ or ¾ hp).
  • DC-powered motors work at a constant speed. The motor can have ⅓ hp, ½ hp or ¾ hp.
  • DC or AC? One is as good as the other.
  • ½ or ¾ hp? Remember that a garage door opener is simply a substitute for manual strength. It’s the system of counterweights (the springs) that lift the door. A well‑balanced door‑what one would call dead weight‑will weigh between 10 and 15 pounds. So, that’s how much weight your garage door opener will have to lift. To allow for any imbalance in the spring system, it’s preferable to choose a ½ hp door opener.

Drive types

  • Chain‑drive: the most popular and more affordable than the belt‑driven type. Note that there are some door openers that don’t offer a full chain, but rather a hybrid, with a chain joined to a steel cable. If you are set on a chain‑driven system, opt for a full chain.
  • Belt‑drive: quieter than the chain, the belt is made of rubber reinforced with metallic threads, similar to that used in tires. This type is strongly recommended if you have a bedroom above your garage.
  • Screw‑drive: less popular since the arrival of the belt‑driven models. This type is quiet. Not recommended for extremely cold climates or for garages exposed to a lot of moisture.

Special options?

There are several of them:

  • Emergency battery: in the event of a power outage, you will be able to open and close your garage door.
  • Garage door monitor: this apparatus enables you check from inside your home to verify that your garage door is firmly and properly closed. Maybe you opened the door by accidentally pushing the mini remote in your coat pocket or handbag.
  • One‑piece rail (trolley bar): if you regularly use your garage door as a main entrance to your home, make sure you ask for a one‑piece — and not a three‑piece — rail assembly. It’s more solid, which prevents you from having to tighten the bolts joining the pieces.

And the latest in terms of technology…

Since 1993, all of the electric garage door openers sold in North America have been equipped with two safety mechanisms: one mechanical and the other, photoelectric.

In 1996, certain manufacturers, like LiftMaster, started offering a rotating code system for use in their remotes. Every time you use your remote, it changes its security code.

Also, since 2014, LiftMaster has offered MyQTM technology, which enables you to use your garage door through an app you download on your smartphone, tablet or computer… even if you’re on the other side of the world!

Still not sure what’s right for you?

At Automated Door Systems, we’ve been working with garage doors for 50 years. It would be our pleasure to give you advice on the best choice, based on your budget and how you use your garage door. Call us today at 1-888-791-3667!

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