Installing a Garage Door Opener
One of the main considerations when installing a garage door opener is the drive. Chain drives date back to the earliest garage door openers. They are the cheapest option, often have more powerful motors, and last a long time with routine maintenance. The potential downside is that they’re noisy, which may matter if you have an attached garage.
A prevalent alternative is belt-drive systems, which typically have AC rather than DC motors. Belts are not only quieter but faster and smoother. They also require less maintenance, but the initial cost is higher, and the belts don’t last as long.
There are also screw-drive systems, often called direct drives. Modern openers use a solid-steel direct drive that delivers unparalleled strength and durability. Direct-drive systems cost more and are more complex to install. The advantage is that there are no belts, chains, or gears to wear out over time.
Another advantage of a direct-drive system out of the box is that it can handle doors up to 14 feet. Chain and belt drives typically support up to 7 feet in their default configurations. If you have a taller door, you’ll usually need to purchase and install an extension kit.
As for horsepower, a 1/2-hp opener will open nearly any garage door. That’s because the springs bear most of the weight. That said, higher horsepower doors generally last longer. That may be a worthwhile investment if you intend to use your opener often.
Technology is an important consideration as well. Most openers are compatible with all remotes and home automation systems. The more advanced models support features like timers, alerts, and status reporting.