Here’s How to Choose the Right Garage Door Opener

Types of Garage Door Openers

While standard garage door openers have a similar design, they differ in how the motor moves the trolley. The two most common types of garage openers are chain drives and belt drives. Here’s a comparison between.

Ceiling-Mount vs Wall-Mount Garage Openers

While ceiling-mount garage door openers are more common, you also have the option of a wall-mount opener. Here’s how they stack up.

Garage Door Features & Accessories

A garage door opener lasts an average of 12 to 15 years, so it’s worth investing in one that will suit your needs now – and for the long term. Consider these product features to help find the best fit for your property.

Remote Control

A remote opener can come in a full-size version that clips onto the car visor or as mini-size keychain attachment.

Wall-Mount Keypad

A wall-mount keypad allows you to open and close the door without a remote. This is handy if you misplace the remote or when other family members or service providers need access.

Horsepower

A 1⁄2-horsepower garage opener is sufficient for a standard-size aluminum door, but a heavier or oversized door will require a 1 1⁄2-horsepower model to work effectively.

Rolling Code

Rolling code technology creates a new security code each time you use the remote control. This prevents accidental opening by other remotes and makes it nearly impossible for intruders to gain access.

Battery Back-Up

A battery back-up provides reserve power, which allows you to use the garage opener even during a power outage.

Manual Release

A standard feature on all openers, the manual release allows you to open the door even if the power is out.

Security Light

Another standard feature, the built-in security light turns on when activated and automatically shuts off after a period of time.

Wi-Fi

A Wi-Fi enabled door opener lets you operate the door from a mobile app on your smartphone, tablet or connected device anytime, from anywhere. It’s a convenient way to provide access to service providers or guests.

Smart Integration

Smart home integration lets you connect your garage system to your home’s smart hub. Some models let you integrate with assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant and Siri.

Safety Sensors

A safety sensor will prevent the garage door from closing on obstructions and even reverse the door’s trajectory to prevent damage or injury.

Motion Sensors

Some built-in security lights connect to motion sensors. A motion-sensing security light will turn on automatically when it detects movement.

Built-In Camera

A camera allows you to see what’s happening in the garage anytime from anywhere. It offers live streaming and video storage. Some models include 2-way communication, too.