Few homeowners think much about their garage door openers until something goes wrong or it’s time to replace them. When it comes time to purchase a new garage door opener it can be tricky and knowing the differences will help you make the right choice. There are a few good reasons to replace your old garage door opener. Newer garage door opener designs are quieter and have additional safety features. The most important safety feature being the invisible beam that prevents the door from closing should something get in the way. This can save damage to cars, people, and pets.
Types of Garage Door Openers
The most common type is the chain drive system where a chain pulls or pushes a trolley that will move the door up and down. A trolley is a grooved metallic wheel or pulley. This one is affordable and very reliable. The drawback to this one is they tend to be a bit noisy and are best suited for a detached garage. The belt drive uses a belt instead of a chain to move the door. These are quieter than the chain drive making them good for attached garages. These are a little more expensive also. The screw drive rotates a threaded steel rod to move the trolley that opens or closes the door, there are less components than the chain or belt leading to less maintenance over its lifetime. These can be noisier than the belt drive.
Two New Garage Door Opener Models to Consider
There are two newer models that are becoming popular. The residential jackshaft and the direct drive. The jackshaft is mounted on the wall right beside the garage door. It uses a 24v DC motor that drives the pulleys and cables that turn the torsion bar that raises the door. When the motor is reversed the cable tension is loosened and the door lowers, this model is quiet and keeps the ceiling in your garage free for overhead storage. It is good for both high and low ceilings but is more expensive. The direct drive claims to be the quietest because there is only one moving part- the motor. The motor (not a trolley) moves along a stationary chain that is embedded on an overhead rail. This model costs about the same as the belt driven and comes with a lifetime warranty.
What Horsepower Garage Door Opener Do I Need?
When making your decision, the first consideration to look at would be the type of drive which are chain, belt, screw drive as well as the other mechanisms that move the door. You should also look at horsepower. The ½ HP is standard and the most popular motor speed. The ¾ HP is more durable and lasts longer making it good for heavier doors. You can also get the 1 HP for oversized or industrial doors. These give you the maximum in efficiency and power.
Garage Door Emergency Repairs & Preventive Maintenance in Las Vegas, Summerlin, North LV & Henderson Nevada
Getting the right garage door opener is half the battle because you also have to make sure it’s installed properly for safety like making sure sensors are properly aligned and tested. Testing manual release and battery back up if the power goes out or the motor stops functioning properly. Your garage door opener and your garage door work together and have a lot of moving parts. Make sure repairs and maintenance are done right to avoid any problems and call Quality Garage Door Repair today!