The garage door opener is one of the most important components of any functional garage door. Without it, it is almost impossible to operate. It is important that you get the right knowledge before buying an opener. Fact is, there are many options out there. You want to make sure you buy the right one that will fit your garage door. This guideline will help you make the perfect choice.
The power
What type of door do you have? The heavier the door the more horsepower you will need to carry it. For a single car garage door or a standard two-car carriage door, a 1/2 horsepower opener is enough. For a solid wood or carriage garaged door a 3/4 horsepower opener is the perfect choice. If you have any doubt consider going for more power. It is better to have more power than not have enough. The extra cash you’ll spend is worth it.
The size of your door
What is the size of your door? Most garage doors are about 7-feet tall. A normal garage door opener is strong enough to operate any garage door of that length, even up to an additional 6-inches. If your door is taller than that you’ll need an extension.
Security features
Gate safety laws in the UK require all garage doors be equipped with safety mechanisms that can automatically reverse it. This is to ensure that cars, humans and pets, passing under it while closing, do not get crushed. While this feature is universal, there are openers that come with additional security features e.g.
- Rolling code functions that automatically changes remote control codes, making it impossible for burglars to break in.
- Lock systems that prevents forceful entry, unless with the use of heavy-duty equipment.
- Technology that automatically stops the garage door if a component is faulty.
Type of drive
There are basically three types of openers including the screw drives, the belt drives and the chain drives. Screw drive opener lifts the door with the aid of a steel rod. They have less moving parts and are easy to maintain – great choice for people who like to DIY. The chain openers are the oldest, the cheapest and the most preferred. But they can be quite noisy, which can be a merit or demerit depending on the angle you want to look at it. That is, the noise can be a disturbance and can also warn in case of an intruder.
Belt drive openers are the same as the chain drives except that they operate with a rubber belt instead of a metal chain. They are the least noisy and also the most expensive of the three opener types.
Remote controls
The remote controls make it easier for you to enter and exit your garage. Some are made to open one door, others can operate multiple doors. Before you buy your garage door opener, make sure you’re satisfied with the features of the remote control. You also have the opportunity to purchase remote control accessories like wireless keypads, to make it easier to operate.