Automatic garage door openers provide unparalleled convenience, allowing homeowners to effortlessly access their garages with just a button press. While budget-friendly options start around $125 to $175, heavy-duty models can reach up to $500. The majority of reliable garage door openers, offering a balance of features and performance, typically fall within the $200 to $400 price range.
To simplify your selection process and help you pinpoint the best garage door opener to meet your specific needs, I’ve conducted thorough research on the leading models currently available. My top recommendation overall is the Chamberlain B6753T Smart Garage Door Opener, a feature-rich unit boasting powerful lifting capabilities and a suite of useful accessories. Explore the guide below for a detailed look at my top picks for the best garage door openers on the market today.
Check Price for Chamberlain B6753T Garage Door Opener
Check Price for Chamberlain B550 Garage Door Opener
Check Price for Genie 7155 Garage Door Opener
Comparing Top Garage Door Openers
| Product | Lifting Power | Key Accessories | Warranty Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chamberlain B6753T Smart Garage Door Opener | 1.25 HPS Equivalent | 2 Sensors, 2 Remotes, Keypad, Battery Backup | Lifetime Motor & Belt, 5-Year Parts, 1-Year Accessories |
| Chamberlain B550 Smartphone-Controlled Garage Door Opener | 0.5 HPS Equivalent | 2 Sensors, Keypad, Control Panel, 2 Remotes | 15-Year Belt, 10-Year Motor, 1-Year Parts & Accessories |
| Genie 7155-TKV StealthDrive Connect Smartphone-Controlled Garage Door Opener | 1.25 HPS Equivalent | Battery Backup, Keypad, Control Panel, 2 Remotes | Lifetime Motor & Belt, 5-Year Parts, 1-Year Accessories |
| beamUP The Workhorse BU100 Sectional Garage Door Opener | 0.75 HPS Equivalent | Control Panel, Remote | 1-Year Belts, Parts, & Accessories |
| Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C Garage Door Opener | 0.5 HPS Equivalent | 2 Sensors, Control Panel, Remote | 1 Year |
| LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series Jackshaft Operator | 0.5 HPS Equivalent | Control Panel, Remote, Light | 5-Year Limited, 1-Year Battery Backup |
| CRAFTSMAN Smart Garage Door Opener | 0.5 HPS Equivalent | Dual-Function Wall Control, Keypad, 2 Lights, 2 Remotes | 10-Year Motor, 1-Year Chain, Parts & Accessories |
| Product | Lifting Power | Key Accessories | Warranty Highlights |
Detailed Reviews of the Top Garage Door Openers
Explore in-depth reviews of our top picks for garage door openers. Click the “Check Price” links to visit the product page.
1. Best Overall Garage Door Opener: Chamberlain B6753T Smart Garage Door Opener
Price: $279 – $349 (Price variations may occur)
The Chamberlain B6753T stands out as the best overall garage door opener due to its blend of power, smart technology, and comprehensive features. Equipped with a robust belt drive system and Chamberlain’s MAX Lifting power, this opener effortlessly handles garage doors of virtually any size and weight. A standout feature is the integrated 130-degree wide-angle camera, providing real-time monitoring of your garage through the myQ smartphone app. This allows for visual confirmation of your garage’s status from anywhere, enhancing security and peace of mind.
Key Features:
- MAX Lifting Power: Ensures reliable operation for heavy and large garage doors.
- Integrated Wide-Angle Camera: Offers live streaming and recording within the garage space via the myQ app.
- Corner-to-Corner LED Lighting: Provides brilliant illumination throughout the garage.
- Ultra-Quiet Operation: Belt drive system and smooth start/stop minimize noise.
- myQ Smartphone Control: Enables remote operation, monitoring, and alerts.
- Two-Way Audio: Communicate through the garage via the myQ app.
Pros:
- Integrated LED lighting covers the entire garage area.
- Exceptionally quiet motor operation with smooth start and stop functionality.
- Two-way audio communication via smartphone app enhances security.
Cons:
- Sensor system can be overly sensitive, potentially causing unnecessary stops.
- Higher price point compared to some other models on the market.
- Camera and video storage may incur additional costs.
Customer Feedback:
Users consistently praise the Chamberlain B6753T for its ease of installation, quiet operation, and durable belt drive. The bright dual LED lighting is also a frequently highlighted positive aspect. Some users note occasional connectivity issues and express disappointment about the subscription fees associated with camera and video storage features.
“I installed this opener a year ago, and it has worked well. I love the remote open and close feature from the app. It’s literally a second delay and it opens. The camera view is helpful when needing to close the door and you’re not home (or laying in bed and don’t want to get up). The opener is belt driven and is pretty quiet. The controls are simple, and the LED light output is good. I especially like that the light comes on when someone walks through the safety beam at the base of the door opening.” – SRYAN, Amazon Customer
“Door opener works great and quiet … Connecting to Internet is terrible. Keeps disconnecting. Price of camera video storage fee to cloud is ludicrous. Better off buying a separate camera and set alarm for motion in garage. … Would have been good if they provided a USB port for free video storage” – Kim Blair, Amazon Customer
Check Price for Chamberlain B6753T Garage Door Opener
2. Best Garage Door Opener for Light Doors: Chamberlain B550 Garage Door Opener
Price: $276
The Chamberlain B550 Garage Door Opener is an excellent choice for homes with lighter garage doors. Its 0.5-horsepower-equivalent motor is specifically engineered for optimal performance with lighter doors, ensuring smooth and reliable operation. Security is paramount, and the B550 incorporates advanced encryption technology. Each time a remote-access accessory is used, a unique encrypted code is transmitted to the opener, effectively preventing unauthorized access and potential hacking attempts.
Key Features:
- 0.5 HPS Motor: Ideal power for lighter single-layer garage doors.
- Encrypted Remote Access: Enhances security by preventing code theft.
- Wireless Keypad Included: Provides convenient exterior access.
- myQ App Compatibility: Enables smartphone control and monitoring (requires subscription for full functionality).
- Easy Installation Videos: Online resources simplify the setup process.
Pros:
- Includes a convenient wireless keypad for external access.
- Encrypted remote access provides enhanced security against unauthorized entry.
- Online video tutorials simplify the installation process for DIYers.
Cons:
- Battery backup is not included and must be purchased separately.
- Full myQ app functionality requires a subscription.
Customer Feedback:
Satisfied customers frequently commend the Chamberlain B550 for its reliable motion detection, quiet operation, and straightforward installation. Many users found the installation process to be particularly user-friendly. Conversely, some customers expressed frustration with the need for a subscription to unlock all features within the myQ app and found the initial installation instructions somewhat unclear.
“Solid build quality and easily installed to replace a chain drive unit that failed. The opener came with 2 remote openers, and a wireless remote opener and paired easily with 3 cars using their Homelink system. The opener is really quiet compared to the failed chain opener, and everyone comments on the quietness. The app works well and is essentially another wireless opener that can be used anywhere in the world to open, close or check the status of the door position. So far, we are very happy with this opener.” – mrblase, Amazon Customer
“I used to really like this garage door opener – I have recently bought four of them across several houses, mostly because of the Wi-Fi connectivity. However, their app is very poor. It often doesn’t work at all, it’s hard to manage or change anything once the door is set up, and it’s yet one more app to manage across my smart home ecosystem.” – CaseJ, Amazon Customer
Check Price for Chamberlain B550 Garage Door Opener
3. Best Garage Door Opener with Voice Assistance: Genie 7155-TKV Garage Door Opener
Price: $289
For homeowners seeking seamless voice control integration, the Genie 7155-TKV Garage Door Opener is a top contender. Utilizing a quiet DC motor coupled with a steel-reinforced belt drive, this smart opener is particularly well-suited for garages attached to living spaces like bedrooms or nurseries due to its minimal noise output. It offers full compatibility with both Amazon Alexa and Google Home, enabling complete voice operation. Installation is designed to be straightforward, requiring no additional hardware in most standard setups.
Key Features:
- Voice Control Ready: Compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Home for voice commands.
- Quiet DC Motor & Belt Drive: Minimizes noise for sensitive environments.
- 1.25 HPS Equivalent Motor: Provides ample lifting power for most residential doors.
- Battery Backup Included: Ensures operation during power outages.
- Two Pre-programmed Remotes: Ready to use out of the box.
Pros:
- Includes five lithium batteries for extended battery backup performance.
- Comes with two pre-programmed remote controls for immediate use.
- Powerful motor with lifting capacity equivalent to 1.25 horsepower.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to some other garage door openers in its class.
- Some users have reported occasional connectivity issues with Amazon Alexa.
- Lacks motion-sensing light feature.
Customer Feedback:
Positive reviews consistently highlight the Genie 7155-TKV’s exceptionally quiet motor and the high-quality construction for its price range. Users also appreciate the ease of installation. However, some customers have encountered challenges connecting to or maintaining a stable connection with Amazon Alexa, and the absence of a motion-sensing light has been noted as a drawback by some.
“…The opener works great. The wireless exterior keypad works great. The included garage door openers for your car work great and from a greater distance than my old system. I have it connected to Wi-Fi and am able to control it through the app as well as through Siri voice commands, which is nice if your hands are full. I highly recommend this device.” – jsflaw, Amazon Customer
“This is a very quiet garage door opener. I bought it to replace a 10-year-old Chamberlain, which had worked fine until it died recently…. This one, however, does not have a motion-sensing light. So if you open it, the light comes on but will turn off after a few minutes. Then you’re left in the dark. I’ve been so used to having garage openers with motion sensors for decades, so this was personally very frustrating to me.” – PT, Amazon Customer
Check Price for Genie 7155 Garage Door Opener
4. Easiest to Install Garage Door Opener: beamUP BU100 Garage Door Opener
Price: $179
The beamUP BU100 Garage Door Opener is designed with ease of installation in mind, making it an ideal choice for DIY enthusiasts. Its sleek, all-white aesthetic adds a modern touch to any garage. To further simplify the setup process, beamUP provides comprehensive resources including detailed instruction manuals, step-by-step video tutorials, and readily available tech support to guide users through each stage of installation.
Key Features:
- Simplified Installation: Designed for easy DIY setup with comprehensive support materials.
- Sleek White Design: Offers a modern and clean appearance.
- Suitable for Single & Double Doors: Powerful enough for various garage door sizes.
- Multiple Style Options: Available in different configurations to suit various needs.
Pros:
- Powerful enough to operate both single and double garage doors effectively.
- Available in multiple style options to match different garage aesthetics.
- Features a modern and visually appealing white design.
Cons:
- Some customers have reported difficulties connecting the device to HomeLink systems.
- Includes fewer accessories compared to some other garage door openers in this category.
Customer Feedback:
Positive reviews frequently commend the beamUP BU100 for its exceptionally easy installation and quiet DC motor operation. Many customers also express satisfaction with the company’s responsive and helpful customer service. Conversely, some users have reported issues with HomeLink compatibility, and a few have noted missing installation components or accessories upon delivery.
“Not only is this opener very powerful for its size, but it’s also quiet, and the instructions were extremely clear and easy to follow. The whole process only took about 45 minutes. I absolutely recommend this opener. It works flawlessly. The LED light in this is really bright!” – R Pangle, Amazon Customer
“…Parts were missing (supposed to come with 6 nuts and bolts only came with 4 of each). We also got halfway through installation and found we needed some type of bar to mount the opener to the ceiling. At the beginning, it stated we may need a hack saw, but never said we may need anything else until halfway through, and even then, it didn’t clearly say we would need it. My husband had to try to install it to find we absolutely needed it. Also, the wireless portion would not work.” – Ashley Hendrickson, Amazon Customer
Check Price for beamUP BU100 Garage Door Opener
5. Best Garage Door Opener with Safety Sensors: Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C Garage Door Opener
Price: $149
The Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C Garage Door Opener prioritizes safety and convenience with its comprehensive sensor system. In addition to a user-friendly one-button remote and a convenient keychain fob for portable operation, this opener includes dual infrared safety sensors. These sensors are crucial for detecting obstructions in the garage door’s path, ensuring safe operation and preventing accidents. An integrated LED light further enhances garage visibility, adding to both safety and convenience.
Key Features:
- Dual Infrared Safety Sensors: Enhanced safety to prevent door closure on obstructions.
- Keychain Remote Fob: Compact and convenient remote option.
- Integrated LED Light: Provides reliable garage illumination.
- In-Car Remote Compatibility: Works with most in-car remote systems without extra adapters.
Pros:
- More affordable compared to many similar garage door openers with safety sensor features.
- Includes a keychain fob for added remote control convenience.
- Compatible with in-car remote systems, simplifying integration with vehicles.
Cons:
- Battery backup is not included and must be purchased separately.
- Lacks smart home technology integration for app-based control.
- Motion sensor sensitivity may require adjustment for optimal performance.
Customer Feedback:
Positive reviews frequently praise the Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C for its quiet operation, responsive motion detection, and easy installation process. Many users consider it a high-value option given its feature set and price point. Conversely, some negative reviews mention units failing after a short period, and some users have found the motion sensor to be overly sensitive, requiring careful adjustment.
“I was a little skeptical about the power of the unit since it’s so small. But it made a believer out of me. It opens and closes my garage door with ease. And best of all, it’s super quiet. That’s what amazed me the most. I wouldn’t even know it was operating if I didn’t see the garage door going up. The installation takes a little bit of figuring out, but nothing more than another opener would entail. Putting together the track and figuring out where everything goes overall took me about 45 minutes to an hour, so not bad.” – Amazon Customer
“I don’t like that when someone trips the sensor when the door is opening, the door automatically closes. It closed on my car when I tried to enter the garage because it must not have opened completely, so when I crossed that line, it just closed on my car. But other than that, it’s working fine.” – joshua sutton, Amazon Customer
Check Price for Skylink Atoms ATR-1611C Garage Door Opener
6. Best Garage Door Opener for Large Vehicles: LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series Jackshaft Operator
Price: $588
The LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series Jackshaft Operator is specifically designed for garages that require maximum space and power, especially beneficial for homeowners with large vehicles like trucks or vans. This wall-mounted garage door opener delivers robust performance while maximizing ceiling space. Its sleek design mounts directly to the wall beside the garage door, freeing up overhead space and significantly reducing vibration, making it ideal for garages with rooms above them. Smartphone control adds modern convenience, allowing for scheduling and real-time alerts.
Key Features:
- Wall-Mount Design: Saves ceiling space and reduces vibration.
- Smartphone Control: myQ app enables remote operation, scheduling, and alerts.
- Audio and Visual Warnings: Enhanced safety alerts during door closure.
- Rolling Code Technology: Increases security by changing the access code with each use.
- Motion-Activated Lights: Automatic garage illumination upon entry.
Pros:
- Provides both audio and visual warnings when the garage door is closing, enhancing safety.
- Utilizes rolling code technology, sending a new access code with each use for increased security.
- Features a motion detector that automatically activates garage lights upon entry.
Cons:
- Not compatible with roll-up style garage doors.
- Higher price point compared to traditional ceiling-mounted openers.
- Compatibility issues may arise with older car remotes, potentially requiring additional accessories.
Good for: Truck and van owners needing a wall-mounted opener to maximize garage ceiling space.
Customer Feedback:
Customers who are satisfied with the LiftMaster 8500 often highlight its quiet operation and straightforward installation. Many also praise its durable construction and ability to handle heavy garage doors with ease. However, some users have expressed frustration with the additional costs associated with ensuring compatibility with older in-car remote systems. Issues with the emergency cord functionality have also been reported by a few users.
“This is a great product. I was able to install in a few hours (most of the work was in hiding the wiring, not the installation itself.) I had a small space to install but it fit right in. Now I don’t have the ugly old garage door opener hanging from my ceiling. I now have a super quiet, clean installation opener and couldn’t be happier. I love the ability to have the door close itself after a predetermined time, as well as the internet connectivity (I also purchased the My-Q internet gateway). I set it up to message me each time the door opens and am able to customize times to allow this. The app is free, and no subscription is required. Another bonus is the auto-locking feature when the door is closed.” – Frederick Irvine, Amazon Customer
“Chamberlain’s new interface is not compatible with older vehicle integrated garage door openers and require a $120 additional investment in MyQ Bridge and a repeater to make it work. Chamberlain documentation is poor and you have to find a knowledgeable tech to find out how to make this work. Shame on Chamberlain for not making this product backward compatible.” – Rocket Man, Amazon Customer
Check Price for LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series Jackshaft Operator
7. Best Value Garage Door Opener: CRAFTSMAN Smart Garage Door Opener
Price: $219
The CRAFTSMAN Smart Garage Door Opener offers exceptional value, delivering a robust chain drive system and smart features at a competitive price point. Constructed with rugged steel, this opener is built for durability and provides sufficient horsepower to lift standard seven-foot garage doors. Despite its affordability, it includes smartphone compatibility via the myQ app, allowing users to monitor and control their garage door remotely.
Key Features:
- Affordable Price: Offers excellent features at a budget-friendly cost.
- Chain Drive System: Reliable and durable chain operation.
- Smartphone Compatibility: myQ app for remote control and monitoring.
- Long-Range Remote: Three-button remote with an operating range up to 1,500 feet.
- Rolling Code Security: Protects against hacking with code-changing technology.
- Wireless Keypad Included: Provides convenient keypad access.
Pros:
- Features a long-range three-button remote with an impressive 1,500-foot range.
- Utilizes rolling code technology, changing the access code with every use to prevent hacking.
- Includes a wireless keypad for keyless entry.
Cons:
- Not ideally suited for particularly heavy garage doors.
- Connectivity may be less reliable compared to some higher-end models.
- Perceived as less durable compared to older Craftsman models.
Good for: Homeowners seeking a reliable, smart garage door opener without breaking the bank.
Customer Feedback:
Many positive reviews for the CRAFTSMAN Smart Garage Door Opener emphasize its ease of assembly and quiet operation. Users also appreciate the brightness of the integrated lighting. However, some negative feedback points to concerns about long-term durability and a perceived decrease in build quality compared to older Craftsman openers. Some users have also reported occasional issues with remote functionality.
“Unit works great. Easy to install if you [are] swapping out an old unit. Easy to set up and adjust. Love that I can open it and get notifications with my smartphone. Have had a couple of months and no issues. Great quality.” – D. Porter, Amazon Customer
“This unit seems to function ok, the (only issue) is that compared to the Craftsman opener I am replacing, which is around 20 years old, this one is made as cheap as possible. The old one is heavy duty compared.” – edwin, Amazon Customer
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Garage Door Opener Buying Guide: Key Considerations
Selecting the right garage door opener involves considering several key factors beyond just the drive and motor type. Controls, accessories, installation process, and smart features all play crucial roles in determining the best garage door opener for your home. This buying guide breaks down these essential considerations to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding Garage Door Opener Drive Types
The drive mechanism is the core component responsible for lifting your garage door. Residential garage door openers primarily utilize three drive types: chain, direct/screw, and belt. A fourth type, jackshaft, is more common in commercial applications.
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Chain Drive: Chain drive openers are typically the most economical option. They utilize a metal chain to move the garage door along a track. While cost-effective, they tend to be noisier and require periodic lubrication to maintain smooth operation.
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Direct/Screw Drive: Direct drive (also known as screw drive) openers employ a threaded steel rod, or screw, to move the door. They are slightly more expensive than chain drives but offer quieter operation and require minimal maintenance, eliminating the need for chain lubrication.
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Belt Drive: Belt drive garage door openers use a reinforced belt, often made of steel-reinforced rubber or fiberglass, instead of a chain. While generally the most expensive type, belt drives are prized for their exceptional durability, virtually silent operation, and lack of maintenance requirements. They are an excellent choice for garages attached to living spaces where noise reduction is a priority.
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Jackshaft Drive: Jackshaft openers are less common in residential settings and are primarily used in commercial or industrial applications with heavy doors or limited headroom. They mount on the wall beside the garage door and directly turn the torsion bar. While highly secure, they are typically louder and require professional installation and maintenance.
Exploring Garage Door Opener Motor Types
Garage door openers are powered by either AC (Alternating Current) or DC (Direct Current) motors.
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AC Motors: AC motors have been the traditional standard in garage door openers for decades. They are known for their reliability and lower initial cost. However, AC motors tend to be larger, heavier, and produce more noise compared to DC motors.
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DC Motors: DC motors represent a more modern advancement in garage door opener technology. They are significantly smaller and quieter than AC motors, offering smoother and often faster operation. DC motors often incorporate soft start/stop features, reducing wear and tear on the door and opener components. While potentially slightly more expensive upfront, DC motors are generally considered a premium option due to their enhanced performance and features.
Determining Garage Door Opener Power Levels
The power of a garage door opener motor is crucial for ensuring it can reliably lift your garage door. AC motors are rated in horsepower (HP), while DC motors use horsepower similar (HPS) or horsepower comparable (HPC) ratings to allow for performance comparisons.
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¼ HP: Garage door openers with ¼ HP motors are suitable only for very lightweight aluminum doors. They may operate slowly and struggle with heavier doors.
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½ HP: ½ HP motors are a common and versatile choice for most residential garage doors. They can handle a wide range of door materials, including steel and insulated doors, but may be underpowered for solid wood or very heavy doors.
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¾ HP: ¾ HP motors offer increased power and are capable of smoothly and quickly opening virtually all residential garage door types, including heavier solid wood doors and oversized doors. They provide a good balance of power and efficiency for most homes.
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1 HP and Higher: Motors rated at 1 HP and above are typically found in commercial or industrial settings where extremely heavy or oversized doors are used. While residential 1 HP openers are available, they are generally overkill for standard home garage doors unless you have a particularly heavy custom door.
Understanding Garage Door Opener Control Systems
Modern garage door openers offer a variety of control options for convenience and security.
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Remote Controls: Most garage door openers include at least one or two handheld remote controls, allowing you to open and close the door from your vehicle or from inside your garage. Some remotes feature multiple buttons for controlling multiple garage doors or gate openers.
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Keypads: Wireless keypads are typically mounted outside the garage door and provide keyless entry using a PIN code. This is convenient for family members without remotes or for providing temporary access to visitors.
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Smart Features & Smartphone Control: Many newer garage door openers incorporate smart technology, enabling Wi-Fi connectivity and smartphone control via dedicated apps. Smart features often include:
- Remote Operation: Open and close your garage door from anywhere with an internet connection.
- Real-time Monitoring: Check the status of your garage door (open or closed) remotely.
- Activity Alerts: Receive notifications on your smartphone when the garage door is opened or closed.
- Scheduling: Set schedules for automatic garage door opening and closing.
- Voice Control Integration: Compatibility with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant for hands-free operation.
Garage Door Opener Installation: DIY vs. Professional
Garage door opener installation can be a DIY project for experienced homeowners comfortable with electrical wiring and mechanical tasks. Most openers come with detailed step-by-step instructions. However, professional installation is recommended if you lack experience, are uncomfortable working with electricity, or want to ensure proper and safe installation. Professional installation typically includes:
- Removal of the old garage door opener.
- Assembly and mounting of the new opener unit and track.
- Wiring and connection to power.
- Installation of safety sensors, remotes, and keypads.
- Testing and adjustment of the opener for smooth and safe operation.
Garage Door Opener Replacement Guide
Replacing an existing garage door opener with a new model can be a manageable DIY project. Here are simplified steps based on guidance from Ask This Old House master electrician Scott Caron:
- Safety First: Disconnect power to the garage door opener circuit at your electrical panel.
- Remove Old Opener: Unplug the old opener, detach it from its mounting brackets, and carefully lower it.
- Bracket Removal: Use an adjustable wrench to detach the door arm bracket and any other mounting hardware.
- Install New Door Bracket: Secure the new door bracket (supplied with the new opener) above the garage door.
- Track Installation: Slide the new opener track into the door bracket and secure it.
- Motor Mounting: Mount the new motor unit to the existing ceiling brackets using a wrench.
- Connect Door Arm: Attach the lifting arm from the garage door to the opener track carriage.
- Wire Keypad: Wire the interior keypad and run the wiring to the motor unit.
- Mount Exterior Keypad: Install the wireless keypad outside the garage.
- Install Safety Sensors: Mount the safety sensors near the floor on either side of the door opening.
- Reconnect Power & Test: Plug the opener into a power outlet, restore power at the circuit panel, and thoroughly test the opener’s operation, including safety features.
For a visual guide, Ask This Old House offers a video demonstration on garage door opener replacement.
Garage Door Opener FAQs
Q: Will my garage door opener work during a power outage?
A: Most standard garage door openers will not function during a power outage as they rely on your home’s electrical supply. However, many models offer a manual release handle, allowing you to manually open and close the door. Some premium garage door openers include battery backup systems that provide power for a limited number of operations during outages.
Q: Do garage door openers have lights?
A: Yes, virtually all garage door openers are equipped with built-in lights that activate when the opener is in use. These lights typically have a timer and automatically turn off after a few minutes to conserve energy. Some models feature LED lighting for brighter and more energy-efficient illumination.
Q: Are garage door openers required to have a safety reverse mechanism?
A: Yes, since 1993, U.S. law mandates that all garage door openers include a safety reverse mechanism. This system is designed to automatically reverse the closing door if it detects an obstruction, such as an object or person, in the door’s path. This crucial safety feature prevents injuries and damage.
Our Review Methodology
This Old House Reviews is dedicated to providing homeowners and DIY enthusiasts with reliable and in-depth home improvement advice. Our product reviews are built upon a rigorous methodology to ensure objectivity and helpfulness. We leverage multiple sources of information to guide our product selection and evaluation process:
Initial Product Research: We begin by compiling a list of garage door openers based on high customer review ratings (4- to 5-star average) and a significant volume of verified buyer reviews. We analyze both positive and negative feedback to gain a balanced understanding of product performance and user experiences.
Expert & Independent Reviews: Our team consults reviews and testing data from reputable publications and independent product testers. We also engage with subject matter experts and consider reader feedback to supplement our in-house expertise.
Product Selection & Refinement: We continuously update our product recommendations, replacing older models with newer versions and removing discontinued products. We then conduct a detailed feature comparison of the shortlisted models to identify best-in-class options for various needs, budgets, and scenarios.
Comprehensive Review Articles: Finally, we synthesize our research into comprehensive and user-friendly articles, providing product recommendations and essential buying information to empower our readers to make informed purchase decisions.
Feedback & Inquiries
For questions or comments regarding this article, please contact our reviews team at [email protected].
