Helpful Tools & Tips
FAQs About Garage Door Openers
Should I purchase a new garage door opener or repair my old one?
Many garage door openers can be repaired and may be a less expensive option. However, there are times when opener replacement is recommended. According to LiftMaster, one of the leading manufacturers of garage doors openers, all garage door openers manufactured prior to 1993 should be replaced, rather than fixed. This is to ensure the highest degree of customer safety and satisfaction due to a Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) law. Many garage door openers prior to 1993 are not equipped with infrared sensors or other external entrapment protections devices and do not meet today’s standards for garage door opener safety.
What is required for installing an electric garage door operator/opener?
When installing an electric garage door opener, the top section of the garage must be reinforced with a strut or angle iron spanning the length of the top section.
What is the difference between a chain drive, belt drive, screw drive and direct drive?
Garage door openers have different systems that open a garage door. A chain drive uses a chain as the mechanism to help open/close a door; a belt drive a belt mechanism; a screw drive a corkscrew rod; and a direct drive attached directly to the torsion bar to help open/close a garage door. Belt drive openers tend to be quieter than chain drive openers. Screw drive openers are known to require less adjustment over time. Direct drives take up less space in your garage.
What is the so unique about a DC garage door opener?
DC stands for direct current. This allows the opener to only run when it is in use opening and closing a garage door, resulting in additional energy efficiency for the home. Additionally, DC openers have soft start and stop features to help smooth the travel of the door and cut down on noise.
Can I purchase a wireless keypad entry to my existing garage door opener?
Depending on the type of garage door opener and the year purchased, a keypad entry should be available for your garage door opener. Contact your local garage door dealer for purchase.
I’ve lost a remote for my garage door opener. How do I purchase a new one?
Yes, we carry replacement remote’s for most makes and models.
