How to Choose the Best Garage Door Opener
Most folks have no idea what they are looking for in a new garage door opener. Sure, they want something reliable and a product that delivers long-term value. With all the options available, how do you sort through the choices and find what fulfills your needs? Here are some pointers on how to choose the best garage door opener.
Drive Options
There are three types of power drives to consider in choosing a new garage door opener.
- Chain Drive — This choice is the least expensive and most durable. But it is the noisiest.
- Screw Drive — Less noisy than a chain drive, a screw drive. However, it is- more costly and requires more maintenance.
- Belt Drive — The most expensive option. It is the quietest and most likely requires the least maintenance.
Horsepower
There are many types of horsepower options. But few garage doors need anything more than 1/2 horsepower. However, if your garage is heavily insulated or made of wood, you may require 3/4 horsepower for proper operation. Should you encounter 1-horsepower options, please understand that these are almost exclusively used for industrial purposes. The added power is not worth the price for residential applications.
AC vs. DC Power
AC motors are less expensive and more likely to include a chain drive. DC motors are more costly and usually feature a belt drive. Additionally, DC motors include a soft start and stop feature that reduces noise. Furthermore, DC-powered engines may feature backup battery options.
Backup Power
Is backup power a feature that you really need? Speaking of backup power, you need to decide whether this feature is worth the extra cost. You can usually find backup power in high-end models. While it costs a bit more, it ensures the convenience of automatic operation even if power is out at your home. Consequently, you should be aware that almost all garage doors include a manual lift and lower option. This ensures your door will operate whether you have power or not — at no extra cost.
Size
Most standard garage doors are 7-feet high, and standard garage door openers are designed to operate standard doors. If you have a non-standard sized door, you need to either modify a standard option or purchase an appropriate model.
Brand and Price
Know your budget before you start shopping for a new garage door opener. Do a little research about common brands. Be sure to stick to a trusted company. While you may be tempted to veer toward the less expensive options. But remember like purchasing any appliance, you get what you pay for.
Ask the Experts
Still have questions about what is the best garage door opener for your home? Contact Door Tech Garage Door Services. Our team of knowledgeable technicians can help you decide on the perfect product.