When choosing the right garage door opener for Oklahoma homes, there are things to consider and keep in mind. From the type, such as chain drive or belt drive, to the features and installation and how long it will last, all play a vital role in deciding which garage door opener to purchase. Let’s look closer at what to consider when choosing a suitable garage door opener for your home.
Types of Garage Door Openers
When it comes to the type of garage door openers available, there are four main types:
- chain drive openers
- belt drive openers
- screw drive openers
- direct drive and Jackshaft openers
Each of these has its pros and cons. Let’s break each one down and examine it.
Chain Drive Openers
Chain drive openers use a metal chain to move the garage door up and down. They are one of the most common and traditionally used types. Think of them as being similar to a bicycle chain. The chain is connected to gears in the opener’s unit and the door, transferring the motor’s rotational motion to move the door.
The pros of chain drive openers include being reliable, durable, suitable for heavy doors, readily available, and cost-effective. Cons include that they are noisier than other types and require regular maintenance to keep the chain lubricated.
Belt Drive Openers
Belt drive openers operate similarly to chain drives but use a rubber belt instead of a chain. The belt is typically reinforced with materials like steel or fiberglass for durability.
Because they use a rubber belt, they are much quieter and ideal for garages adjacent to or beneath the living areas. Another pro of belt drive openers is fewer moving parts, which means less vibrations and maintenance.
Some cons of belt drive openers are that they are more expensive and may not be suitable for heavy doors.
Screw Drive Openers
Another type of garage door opener is a screw drive. These units are different from the above chain and belt drive systems. Screw drive systems use a threaded steel rod to move the trolley that opens and closes the garage door. As the rod rotates, it drives the trolley along the track to operate the door.
Screw drive openers require less maintenance over time, and they operate smoothly and quietly when compared to chain drive openers. Some cons are they are typically slower in opening doors and can be sensitive to temperature fluctuations, which might be a consideration in Oklahoma’s varied weather.
Direct Drive and Jackshaft Openers
The last type is the direct drive and Jackshaft openers. In direct drive openers, the motor itself moves along the track to open or close the door, rather than using a separate lifting mechanism like a chain, belt, or screw. The motor is the only moving part, physically driving the door.
Jackshaft openers are mounted on the wall beside the garage door. They turn the torsion bar to raise or lower the door, making them distinct from the track-based systems used in chain, belt, and screw drive openers. Some pros include being extremely quiet when compared to the other three types. Jackshaft openers are unique in their space-saving design and are sought where traditional openers aren’t feasible. Some cons are the cost and their need for professional installation.
Key Features to Consider
Once you’ve determined the best type of garage door opener for your needs and home, features are the next thing to consider. Some features are power and motor size, safety, and security enhancements.
Power and Motor Size
The power and motor size of a garage door opener is the strength and capability of the motor to lift and lower a garage door. It’s typically measured in horsepower (HP) or, in some newer models, in Newtons (N). The right amount of power for a garage door opener depends on the door’s size, weight, and material.
Choosing the right power and motor size is important for several reasons. If you have a heavy door, such as one made of wood or insulated, you will need more power to operate smoothly. A properly powered door opener operates more efficiently, neither too fast (which can be unsafe) nor too slow (which can be inconvenient). Having the correct motor size will also increase the longevity of your opener.
Safety Features
Safety is always a priority, and as technology has improved, so have the safety features on garage door openers. Some features to consider include:
- Auto-Reverse Mechanism: will automatically reverse the direction of the garage door if it encounters an obstruction while closing. Sensors near the bottom of the door help to achieve this.
- Motion Detection Sensors: these sensors detect movement under the door and can stop or reverse the door’s motion if something or someone is detected. Think of this as an additional layer to the auto-reverse mechanism.
- Manual Release: A manual release allows the garage door to be opened or closed manually in case of a power outage or opener malfunction.
- Safety Tension Springs: They help prevent the door from slamming shut rapidly in the event of a component failure.
Safety features are vital to consider when choosing the right garage door opener for your home.
Security Enhancements
Security enhancements are other features to consider when picking a garage door opener. Your garage door is often a primary entry point to your home, so modern openers have several features to enhance your security. Some things include:
- Rolling Code Technology: this feature creates new codes for your remote control every time you use it, making it nearly impossible to duplicate or hack.
- Wi-Fi and Smartphone Integration: many openers now offer smart openers that connect to your Wi-Fi or smartphone, allowing you to open/close your garage and get alerts.
- Vacation Mode: this feature turns off remote controls and keypad access, allowing only manual use of the garage door. This feature is useful when you’re away for extended periods.
These security enhancements in garage door openers deter potential break-ins and provide peace of mind, knowing your home is more secure.
Garage Door Opener Installation
When selecting a garage door opener, the installation process is an essential factor to consider. Proper installation is critical to ensuring the opener’s safety, efficiency, and longevity.
Consider whether this will be a professional or a DIY installation. By having a professional installation, you ensure it is installed correctly and with expertise. Most professional installations come with a warranty.
If you go the DIY route, consider finding a garage door opener suitable for your experience and easy to install. Also, make sure the new opener is compatible with your garage door and your home’s space and electrical requirements.
In conclusion, there are many aspects to consider when choosing the right garage door opener for your home. You want to ensure you select the right type, examine the features you want, and decide how to install it. Feel free to reach out to Total Door Solutions to schedule an appointment for a free consultation.
