Category: Garage Door Openers

If you’re considering purchasing a new garage door opener, you may be wondering how long garage door openers last. 

Garage door openers can last anywhere between 10-15 years on average. However, there are several factors that can impact the overall lifespan of a new garage door opener. 

Here are some of the most common questions and concerns we hear from homeowners regarding the lifespan of a garage door opener.

How long do garage door openers last?

Garage door openers typically last between 10 to 15 years, depending on factors such as usage, maintenance, and quality of the opener itself. Some openers may last longer, while others might need replacement sooner, especially if they are not properly maintained or face harsh environmental conditions.

To extend the lifespan of your garage door opener, it’s essential to perform regular maintenance and address any issues as soon as they arise. Lubricating the moving parts, checking the door balance, and ensuring the safety features are functioning properly can all contribute to a longer-lasting garage door opener. Keep in mind that the type and brand of garage door opener can also affect its longevity, so it’s essential to choose a high-quality opener when purchasing or replacing your existing one.

What impacts garage door opener lifespan?

Several factors impact the lifespan of a garage door opener. Here are some of the most significant factors:

• Usage: The frequency of use and the total number of cycles (open and close) that a garage door opener goes through can significantly affect its lifespan. The more often it is used, the more wear and tear on the motor and other components, leading to a shorter lifespan.
• Maintenance: Regular maintenance plays a crucial role in prolonging the life of a garage door opener. This includes cleaning and lubricating moving parts, inspecting and adjusting the door balance, and ensuring that safety features are functioning correctly. Neglecting maintenance can lead to premature wear and failure.
• Quality of the Opener: The quality of the garage door opener itself, including the brand and materials used, can impact its longevity. Higher-quality openers are more likely to have a longer lifespan compared to cheaper models with inferior components.
• Environmental Factors: Exposure to extreme temperatures, humidity, or corrosive elements can negatively affect a garage door opener’s lifespan. These factors can cause rust, corrosion, and general wear on the components.
• Installation: Proper garage door installation is essential to ensure your opener functions correctly and last as long as possible. Improper installation can lead to increased wear and tear or even damage the opener, shortening its lifespan.
• Power Surges: Electrical surges, such as those caused by lightning strikes or power outages, can damage the internal components of a garage door opener, reducing its lifespan.

By being aware of these factors and taking steps to mitigate their effects, you can help extend the life of your garage door opener and delay the need for replacement. Regular maintenance and choosing a high-quality opener are especially important in ensuring a longer lifespan.

How do I know if my garage door opener needs replacing?

It’s essential to recognize the signs that your garage door opener may need replacing to prevent inconvenient or even dangerous situations. One of the first indicators is the age of the opener. If your garage door opener is approaching or has surpassed the 10-15 year mark, it’s worth considering a replacement, especially if you have noticed performance issues or required frequent garage door opener repair.

Signs your garage door opener is failing

There are several signs that indicate your garage door opener might need replacing. Look for these warning signs:

• Frequent malfunctions: If your garage door opener is consistently experiencing issues or failing to operate correctly, it may be reaching the end of its lifespan.
• Excessive noise: Unusual or excessive noise during operation, such as grinding, squeaking, or rattling, can indicate that the motor or other components are wearing out.
• Slow response time: If your opener is slow to respond when you press the remote or wall switch, it could be a sign of an aging motor or other issues that may warrant a replacement.
• Inconsistent operation: If your garage door opener works intermittently or stops functioning altogether, it could be a sign of an aging or damaged unit.
• Outdated safety features: Older openers may not have the latest garage door safety features, such as photo-eye sensors, automatic reversal mechanisms, and opener backup batteries, which are now standard in newer models. Replacing your opener ensures you have a safer system for your family and property.
• Frequent repairs: If you find yourself repeatedly needing to repair your garage door opener, it might be more cost-effective to replace it with a new unit.
• Increased energy bills: Older garage door openers tend to be less energy-efficient than newer models. Upgrading to a more efficient model can help lower your energy bills.
• Obsolete parts: If replacement parts for your garage door opener are hard to find or no longer available, it may be time to consider replacing the unit.

If you notice any of these signs or a combination of them, it’s a good idea to consult with a professional garage door technician to assess the condition of your garage door opener and determine if it’s time for a replacement.

Does garage door opener maintenance extend lifespan?

Yes, regular garage door opener maintenance can significantly extend its lifespan. Proper maintenance helps ensure smooth operation, reduces wear and tear on the components, and allows you to address potential issues before they become major problems. Here are some key maintenance tasks that can help extend the life of your garage door opener:

• Lubrication: Regularly lubricate the moving parts, such as chains, rollers, and hinges, to minimize friction and prevent premature wear. Use a silicone-based lubricant or garage door-specific lubricant for best results.
• Door balance: Check the balance of your garage door by disconnecting the opener and manually lifting the door halfway. If it doesn’t stay in place, the door may be out of balance, putting extra strain on the opener. Adjust the springs or consult a professional to address the issue.
• Inspect and tighten hardware: Regularly inspect the brackets, bolts, and other hardware, tightening any loose components to ensure stable operation.
• Clean and align sensors: Keep the photo-eye sensors clean and ensure they are properly aligned to maintain the safety features of your garage door opener.
• Test safety features: Periodically test the auto-reverse feature and other safety mechanisms to ensure they are functioning correctly.
• Inspect the motor and components: Visually inspect the motor, gears, and other components for signs of wear or damage, and address any issues as needed.
• Check the remote and wall switch: Test the remote control and wall switch to make sure they are functioning properly, and replace batteries or fix wiring issues as needed.

By performing these maintenance tasks regularly, you can help prevent major issues, reduce the need for repairs, and extend the overall lifespan of your garage door opener.

When you work with a professional garage door company, such as Your Garage Door Guys, you can rest assured your expert technician will have the experience and knowledge needed to effectively maintain your opener.

How to choose a garage door opener

When choosing a garage door opener, it’s essential to consider several factors to find the perfect fit for your needs. Start by determining the type of drive mechanism you prefer: chain, belt, or screw drive, each with its unique advantages and drawbacks. Chain drives are durable and budget-friendly, but can be noisy. Belt drives offer quiet operation, while screw drives require minimal maintenance and provide fast opening speeds.

Next, evaluate the horsepower (HP) needed for your garage door based on its size, weight, and material. Common options include 1/2 HP, 3/4 HP, and 1-1/4 HP. Heavier or larger doors typically require a more powerful opener to ensure smooth operation and prevent motor strain.

Consider additional features such as built-in Wi-Fi for smartphone control, battery backup for operation during power outages, and compatibility with smart home systems like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. Also, look for models with advanced safety features, including photo-eye sensors and auto-reverse mechanisms, to protect your family and property.

Lastly, research reputable brands, such as LiftMaster, and read customer reviews to compare durability, performance, and overall satisfaction. By carefully considering these factors, you’ll be able to choose a garage door opener that provides reliable performance, security, and convenience for years to come.

Call in a professional for help

As we’ve discussed throughout this article, garage door openers don’t last forever. When signs of wear and tear or malfunction start to appear, it’s essential to consider replacing your garage door opener for the sake of safety, security, and convenience.

Your Garage Door Guys are the experts you can trust when it comes to garage door replacement services. With our extensive experience and commitment to customer satisfaction, we will help you choose the perfect opener to fit your needs and budget while ensuring a smooth and hassle-free installation process.

Imagine the peace of mind you’ll have knowing that your garage door opener has been professionally replaced by a trusted garage door service provider. Not only will you enjoy enhanced performance and improved security, but you’ll also benefit from the latest advancements in energy efficiency and smart technology.

Don’t wait for your garage door opener to fail completely before taking action. Contact Your Garage Door Guys today and request a garage door opener estimate. Give yourself the gift of reliability, safety, and convenience by upgrading your garage door opener with the help of our skilled technicians.

Interested in learning how to manually open garage door?

Garage doors are essential to many homes, providing convenience, security, and protection for your vehicles and other belongings. However, in the event of a power outage or mechanical failure, you may need to open your garage door manually. Knowing how to do this can save you time, frustration, and potentially even money if you can avoid calling in a professional. 

In this article, you will discover how to manually open garage door, which can be helpful in various situations.

How to Manually Open Garage Door

The specific steps to manually open a garage door may depend on the type of garage door you have, but here are some general steps that may be helpful:

1. Locate the emergency release cord: This cord should hang from the garage door trolley that moves along the rail. It is usually red and should be easy to spot.
2. Pull the emergency release cord: Simply pull the cord down and toward the door. This will disengage the door from the automatic garage door opener, so you can manually lift the door.
3. Lift the door: You can lift it manually once the door is disengaged. You may need to use some force, as garage doors can be heavy.
4. Hold the door open: It’s important to keep it open once you’ve lifted it manually. Depending on your garage door, you may be able to prop it open with a block of wood or some other object. Be sure to keep your hands and fingers clear of any moving parts.
5. Reconnect the garage door to the automatic opener: When you’re ready to close the door, simply pull the emergency release cord in the opposite direction to re-engage the door to the automatic opener.

Reasons You Might Need to Open a Garage Door Manually

While garage door openers have made life easier for homeowners, there are various scenarios in which you may need to open your garage door manually. You may need to rely on manual operation, from power outages to mechanical failures, lost remotes, emergency situations, or even moving homes.

Here are seven of the most common reasons you might need to open a garage door manually:

• Power outage: If your home experiences a power outage, your automatic garage door opener may not work, and you’ll need to open the door manually. This is particularly important if you have an older garage door opener, as modern garage door openers (as of 2018) must have backup batteries according to California law.
• Mechanical failure: If the garage door opener malfunctions or breaks, you may need to manually open the door until you can repair or replace the opener.
• Dead batteries: If the batteries in your garage door opener remote die, you may need to open the door until you can replace the batteries manually.
• Lost or broken remote: If you lose your garage door opener remote or it is damaged, you may need to open it manually until you can get a new remote.
• Emergency situations: In some emergency situations, such as a fire or other evacuation, you may need to quickly and manually open the garage door to exit the home. This is another reason why, as of 2018, garage door openers must have backup batteries.
• Maintenance or cleaning: You may need to manually open the garage door to perform maintenance or cleaning tasks, such as lubricating the door or cleaning the tracks.
• Moving or selling the home: If you’re moving out of your home or selling it, you may need to manually open the garage door if you’ve already disconnected the automatic opener or if it’s been removed.

If your garage door opener does not have a backup battery, consider calling Your Garage Door Guys for information about modern garage door openers.

Related: How to Install Battery Backup for a Garage Door Opener

Safety Concerns to Keep in Mind

Safety should be a top priority when manually opening a garage door to avoid accidents and injuries. Here are some safety concerns to keep in mind:

• Check for obstacles: Before lifting the garage door, ensure there are no people, pets, or objects in the way of the door’s path.
• Wear gloves: Garage doors can be heavy and pinch or cut your fingers, so wear gloves to protect your hands.
• Lift with your legs: Instead of lifting with your back, use your legs to lift the door, which can help prevent back injuries.
• Keep your balance: Maintain a stable footing while lifting the door, and avoid leaning or overreaching.
• Secure the door: Once it is open, secure it with a prop or block of wood to prevent it from falling or closing unexpectedly.
• Be cautious: When manually operating the door, be cautious of any moving parts, springs, or cables.
• Don’t override safety features: Avoid overriding safety features or disconnecting safety mechanisms, as these can prevent accidents or injuries.
• Consider calling for help: If the garage door is too heavy or difficult to lift on your own, consider asking for help from a friend or calling a professional.

By taking the necessary safety precautions, you can minimize the risk of accidents or injuries while manually opening your garage door.

Why You Should Call a Professional First

While manually opening a garage door may seem like a simple task, there are several situations where it’s best to call a professional for assistance. Here are a few reasons why you should consider calling a professional before attempting to open a garage door manually:

Lack of experience: If you’ve never manually opened a garage door before, it’s possible to injure yourself or cause damage to the door if you don’t know what you’re doing.

• Heavy door: Some garage doors are heavy and difficult to lift, especially for someone not used to lifting heavy objects.
• Spring tension: Garage doors have springs that provide tension to help lift the door. If the tension is released suddenly, it can cause serious injury.
• Electrical issues: If the garage door opener is malfunctioning, it may be due to electrical issues that require a professional’s expertise to repair.
• Warranty concerns: If your garage door is still under warranty, attempting to open it manually may void the warranty.
• Safety concerns: Safety concerns may be associated with your garage door, such as a faulty emergency release or other safety mechanisms requiring a professional’s attention.

In summary, it’s important to prioritize safety and seek professional help when necessary, especially if you lack experience or encounter any issues with your garage door. Doing so can avoid potential accidents or damage and ensure your garage door operates safely and effectively.

If you need help with your garage door, consider contacting Your Garage Door Guys for help.

Conclusion

Knowing how to open your garage door manually can be a valuable skill for homeowners, especially during power outages, mechanical failures, or other unexpected situations. 

Following the steps outlined in this article and keeping safety in mind, you can manually open your garage door confidently and minimize the risk of accidents or injuries. However, it’s important to remember that some situations may require the expertise of a professional garage door technician. 

Whether you’re moving, dealing with a malfunctioning opener, or just want to prepare for unexpected events, knowing how to open your garage door manually can provide peace of mind and ensure you’re prepared for anything.

When you have a new garage door opener installed, there will be several different types out there that you can buy. Most customers tend to choose overhead mounted garage door openers, but more and more are going for a wall-mounted version instead. What is a wall mount garage door opener, and why would it be the best option for you?

What Is A Wall Mount Garage Door Opener?

Ok, so what is a wall mount garage door opener? You may have heard of them by other names, such as jackshaft garage door openers, but they’re all the same. Simply put, they’re a garage door opener mechanism that allows you to mount them to the wall instead of up on the ceiling. 

It usually sits to either the left or right of your garage door and uses a pulley and torsion system to open the door for you. 

The Difference Between Wall Mounted And Overhead Garage Door Openers

So, what makes a wall-mounted opener different from an overhead one? The most significant difference is in where they’re mounted. The wall mount opener sits to the side of the garage door, while the overhead one sits suspended from the ceiling. 

The way they open the door is different too. An overhead garage door opener can use a few other methods in order to open it, such as belt, chain, and screw drives — all having their own benefits. As such, you can choose the one that works best for you. 

Should You Choose A Wall Mount Over An Overhead?

Now that you know the difference between these two openers, you’ll need to find the one that works best for you. But, which one should you choose if you’re going to get a new garage door opener?

The wall-mounted garage door opener has a few benefits that you should be aware of, including:

Saving space

This is the biggest reason why homeowners choose to go with a wall-mounted garage door opener. As it sits at the side of the door, you don’t have to give up ceiling space to it. Many like to add racks to the garage ceiling for storage, and this allows you to do that. You’ll also see that it’s a good option if your garage has a low ceiling and doesn’t allow for a suspended overhead opener setup. 

Perfect for High Ceilings

Low ceilings aren’t the only issue with overhead mounted garage door openers. You’ll also have problems if you have a very high ceiling. If you have a higher ceiling and want an overhead mount, then you’ll need a mounting bracket that’s larger than average. That can make installing it difficult, so a wall-mounted option is better in this instance. 

Quiet Operation

This is something that a lot of homeowners are concerned with. Your garage may be under a bedroom or near your neighbors’ property. Wherever it is, you’ll want the garage door opener to be quiet as not to disturb others. An overhead opener can do this if you pick the right opener type, but a wall-mounted opener is one of the quietest openers out there. 

Extra security

You’ll want your garage to be as secure as possible, as they can often be a target for thieves. As such, there are lots of measures you can put into place. One of these is to install a wall-mounted garage door opener. Overhead garage door openers have manual release cords, which are great for safety but can be manipulated from outside. That’s not something you have with wall-mounted models, so you can keep your garage and your valuables safe from intruders.

Extra Safety

Although a wall-mounted garage door opener doesn’t have a manual release cord, plenty of other safety features make them safe to use. These can include things like extra lighting, auto-reverse features, and so on. What you get will depend on the model you buy, so be sure to shop around and see what’s out there. 

Low Maintenance Needs

One of the best things about a wall-mounted garage door opener is that they’re lower maintenance than other types. They contain fewer moving parts, so there’s less to have to take care of during your garage door inspections. As such, they’ll be able to stay in good working condition for longer. 

These are all some very compelling reasons to go with a wall-mounted garage door opener. However, an overhead model may still be the right one for you. But, how can you be sure it’s the best option?

Cost-Effective

There’s no denying that an overhead garage door opener is going to be cheaper than a wall-mounted model. If budget is a serious concern, then you’re always going to go with an overhead garage door opener for your home. 

Choice in Opener Types

There are lots of options when it comes to picking your overhead garage door opener. For example, if you go with a chain drive, it helps lower costs even further. If you go with a belt drive, you’ll be able to get a very quiet performance. As such, you can choose the options that make the most sense for you and your home.

Reliable Performance

Something you need to know before installing a wall-mounted garage door opener is that they typically have a weight limit. If your garage door is over that limit, then you’ll need to go with an overhead option. They can offer the heaviest loads while still offering good performance, so there’s a lot less worry when it comes to your garage door. 

Reap the Benefits of a Wall Mount Garage Door Opener

Both garage door opener types are good options for your home, but a wall-mounted garage door opener gives you benefits that you can’t get with an overhead type. If you’re looking for a garage door opener that works with your ceiling type and offers extra safety and security, it’s going to be the model for you.

Having problems with your garage door opener? Whether the door won’t open all the way, or it won’t open at all, it’s going to be a problem for you when you need to get your car out. Not to worry though, as often you’ll be able to troubleshoot the problem yourself. Here’s how to repair a garage door opener and get it working again.

The Basics on How to Repair a Garage Door Opener

When the garage door opener isn’t working like usual, there can be various things that could be causing the issue. Often, it’s going to be something very basic that can be fixed in moments. Even if you think it can’t be any of the following, you’ll want to check just in case:

Get closer to the door: Get closer to the door in the first instance, and try the remote again. If it opens at this point, you’ll know that the remote needs to be in closer range to open the door.

Replace the batteries: Put fresh batteries in your remote, and see what happens when you try it again. If it works, then the batteries were simply dead, and you’ve solved the problem. If you empty the battery compartment and the contacts look rusty, make sure you give them a polish too. 

Check the door isn’t locked: It could be that the garage door is locked manually. If so, the garage door opener won’t be able to lift it up. 

Check the garage door opener isn’t disengaged or unplugged: You’ll often unplug and disengage the garage door opener when working on the garage door, for safety. If it’s not opening, check for this. It may have been left unplugged, and also remember that the plug could have been knocked out of the socket. 

If you’ve tried all these and you still can’t get the garage door opener to work, then you can move on to the next step. 

Try The Wall Switch

Next, give the wall switch a try rather than the remote opener. Does this open the garage door? If so, that’s a good sign as you most likely just need a new garage door opener remote. You can quite easily pick one up, and reprogram it to your garage door. The way that they are programmed will be different depending on the garage door opener you have, so check the instructions to see how to do it. 

Once the new opener is programmed, try the garage door again. In most cases, this should have solved the problem for you.

Lubricate The Trolley Rail

Ideally, you’ll be doing maintenance checks on your garage door at least twice a year. This lets you check the condition of your garage door, and ensures that it’s in full working condition. At this point, you should also be lubricating the door to keep it moving throughout the year.

If you find that the garage door won’t open, it could be that the trolley rail on the opener needs lubrication. Get a lithium-based grease and apply it to the trolley rail. A spray is a good option here, as you’ll be able to get into all the spaces and properly lubricate them. 

Once you’ve done that, test the garage door opener again. If it works, then you’ll see that the rail needed lubrication. Make sure you keep up with it twice a year to keep everything moving as it should. 

Adjust The Photo Eyes

Are you finding that the garage door won’t close all the way when you press the button to close it? If you’re seeing it auto-reverse, that’s a good sign that the photo eyes are at fault. These are the two sensors that sit close to the ground, either side of your garage door, and what checks for anything in the path of the door. If anything breaks the beam between them, they’ll send the signal to open the door again. 

Firstly, give the sensors a wipe with a soft cloth. This may be all they need to get working again. They can get dirty easily, being on the ground. If that doesn’t solve the problem, readjust the eyes themselves. You can use a length of string and a spirit level, to check if they’re level with each other. If they’re not, then the beam is broken. Readjust the photo eyes and try the opener again, to see if this solves the problem. 

Adjust The Travel

Has adjusting the photo eyes not solved the problem with your garage door not closing? Then it could well be an issue with the limits on your garage door opener. This tells the opener how far the garage door should travel before it hits the ground. If you’re seeing the door auto-reverse when it touches the ground, it may be programmed to think the ground is further away than it is, and so it believes that something is in the path of the door. 

You should find a switch to adjust the travel on the garage door opener itself. Use the manual to use it, and adjust the travel. This may take some experimentation, but it will get it right and stop auto-reversing. 

Check The Chain Tension

Finally, if you’re finding that your garage door won’t open all the way, that could be an issue with the chain tension. If there’s too much slack, it won’t be able to open the door up properly when needed. It’s quite easy to check if this is the problem. 

Take a look at the garage door opener manual, as this will tell you how much slack there should be. Typically, it should be about ¼ to ½ an inch of slack. Measure your chain to see if this is the case, and tighten it if there’s too much slack. 

With these tips, you’ll be able to fix most problems that occur with your garage door opener. If you still can’t get your garage door opener to work, call on a garage door expert to help you with it.

Having a garage door opener is something that every homeowner should consider. They will help make your garage door more secure, ensuring that only the right people can get in through it. Plus, they make it easier to drive your car in and out. There are many different models out there, so how do you ensure that you’re picking the right one? Here’s how to select the right modern garage door opener. 

Garage Door Opener Types

There are many different garage door opener types, and they all have their benefits. The one you choose will depend on your personal needs. Here are some examples. 

Chain Drive

These garage door openers use a metal chain to pull the garage door open. They’re a popular choice as they’re very cost-effective. However, they are also the noisiest option for you. If your garage isn’t near the rest of the house or anyone else’s house, then they may be a good option for your home. 

Belt Drive

These work similarly to the chain drive, except they use a belt in place of the chain. They’re often quieter to use as a result. If you have a bedroom that sits above the garage, then this may be the best option for you. However, they aren’t capable of lifting heavier doors. 

Screw Drive Opener

These openers are different, as they use a threaded steel rod that rotates to open the door. It’s a good option if you want something with less maintenance, as they have fewer moving parts. However, you will find that these do create a lot of noise. 

Jackshaft Drive Opener

These are an option that is becoming very popular right now. The opener is installed on the side of the door and uses a motor to drive pulleys that open the door. They’re a good option for larger garage doors, as well as garages with less overhead room. These are the most expensive type out there, so you’ll need to consider if the cost is worth it to you in the long run. 

These are just a few options, but as you can see, there are plenty of them available to you. You can talk with your local garage door fitter to see which one would be right for you. 

Garage Door Opener Horsepower

The horsepower of your garage door opener is vital. It needs to have enough power to open your garage door, so pay attention to this when you’re shopping around. The amount of horsepower you need will depend on the size of the garage door. 

For example, a standard double car garage door will need ½ horsepower motor, while a heavier garage door opener will need to be ¾ horsepower. These are the most typical models you’ll see when looking into residential garage door openers. 

Garage Door Opener Remotes And Keypads

You’ll also need to think about the remotes you’ll want with your garage door opener. There are many different options available to you, so you’ll want to find the one that works best for you. For example, you should get remotes and a wall mount with your opener. Some models will come with openers built into your car. Additionally, your wall mount can come with extra features, such as scheduling and timer functionalities. 

You’ll also have the option to add a keypad to your garage door opener. These can be useful if you want to give access to people who don’t live in the home or a way in if you have the code but not keys to the house. You can also decide whether you want to add a keypad to your opener, giving you more options for opening it. 

Security Features On Your Garage Door Opener

All good modern garage door openers should come with several different security features. In the past, a garage door opener would be the weak point in your home’s defense, but now they’re more secure than ever before. The most important change has been the use of rolling codes. Every time the remote is used, a new code is sent to the opener. That makes it impossible for a potential burglar to use the same code to get in or even for another home’s remote to open your door by accident. 

Furthermore, some models will have extra security features. These can include locking mechanisms that monitor for forced opening and lock down the door if this happens. 

Safety Features For Your Garage Door Opener

Any good garage door opener will need safety measures to keep you safe. Any good modern system should have security sensors, or ‘photo eyes,’ installed at the bottom of the door. These shoot out a beam of light, and if that beam breaks, the system will assume that something is in the way of the door. In this case, it will then engage the auto-reverse system so the garage door can’t close. There should also be an emergency release that you can use if you’re working on the door so that the opener won’t engage by accident. 

You can have additional features added to the door if you’d like. For example, you can add an alert that sounds when the door is about to close. 

Having Your Modern Garage Door Opener Installed

Now that you know what kind of garage door opener you want installed, you’ll want to talk to a garage door installer to help. That’s important, as they will be able to handle the many moving parts and install everything correctly. It’ll save you a lot of hassle too, so look up your local garage door installers to see who can help you. 

There’s a lot to look for when you want a new garage door opener installed. However, there are plenty of tips here so you can pick a model that works best for your own needs. Talk to an installer today to get started with your new opener.

If your garage door opener isn’t working, you might need to reset it. Here’s how to reset garage door opener.

Troubleshooting a garage door opener that isn’t working can be tough if you’re not familiar with the various mechanics of the garage door opener or programming of its remote. However, one of the first places to start is the reset option.

In this article, we’re exploring how to reset garage door openers.

How to Reset Garage Door Opener

There are several reasons why you may need to reset your garage door opener. You may be troubleshooting your garage door opener, and want to reset it to see if that improves the issue. You may have moved to a new home, and need to reset it in order to secure your garage, much like changing the locks.

Whatever the reason, you’ll see that it’s easier than you think to change it. Here’s what you need to do to reset the garage door opener and make it safe. 

Here’s how to reset garage door openers.

Erase The Old Codes On The Garage Door Opener

Before you can do anything else, you’ll need to erase the codes that are already on your garage door opener. This is easier than you’d think, and will only take a second. 

To do this, look for the LEARN button on the garage door opener unit. If you’re not sure where it is, look in the manual to see where it should be. Typically, it should be on the back of the motor housing, away from the garage door. On some models, there may be a LED next to it. 

Using a step ladder to reach it, climb up and hold the LEARN button for at least six seconds. This should erase the codes that it already holds. When you’re doing this, be sure to stand clear of the garage door. Once you clear the codes, it should open and close. 

Reprogram Your Remote Control

Now you’re ready to reprogram your remote control, ready with the new codes. You may need to do this several times, depending on how many remotes you have for your garage door. You’ll need to reset at least one handheld remote, before you pair the garage door opener with your in car devices. 

All remotes will differ slightly in how you reprogram them, so the best thing to do is check the manual, to see how yours work. There are some common steps you can take though to achieve this:

• Hold down the remote control program button until the LED light comes on. The light may be in different places depending on your remote, such as under the visor clip.
• Choose a button to use as the open/close button for your garage door. Now, you’ll need to press it a number of times, depending on the type of garage door opener you have. You’ll find this info in the manual that comes with your device. 
• Press any other button to exit this step. 
• Press and release the LEARN button on the opener. The light next to it will glow for 30 seconds, which is the amount of time you’ll have to reprogram the opener. 
• Press and hold the button on your remote for as long as this LED light is on. Then, you should see the garage door lights flash or you’ll hear two clicks. 
• Test the programmed button on your remote. If you’ve followed these steps, the garage door should open up. 
• Finally, if the remote is working as it should, you can clip it back to your visor. 

Reprogram Your In-Car Systems

Now that you’ve handled your remote, you’ll need to reprogram the in-car systems too. You’ll need to go through the following steps for each car that has in-car systems in your home. Again, the exact steps may be slightly different on your system, so you’ll want to check your manual for an exact guide. 

• Press and hold the two outside buttons on your remote, releasing them only when the indicator light begins to flash rapidly. Be aware that some systems will need you to have the ignition in the ‘on’ position to be able to do this. 
• Hold the end of the transmitter you wish to train around 1 to 2 inches away from the surface of the in-car device, keeping the indicator light in view. 
• Press and hold the transmitter button and the in-vehicle button at the same time, only releasing when the light changes from a slow to a rapid blink. 
• Press the LEARN button on the garage door opener for one second, and release. You only have 30 seconds to do this, so be sure to do it quickly.
• In the vehicle, press and hold the program link button for two seconds, then release. Repeat this step, and the garage door opener should activate on the second press. 

Reset Your Keypad

In many cases, you’ll now be done and ready to open your garage door with the new codes. If you have a keypad, you’ll have to go through an extra step to connect this using that new code. Typically, you’ll find instructions on changing the code under the cover, so check these before going ahead. 

• Press the LEARN button on your garage door opener, and then press the * and # keys on the keypad at the same time. Do this until the LED light stops blinking. 
• Enter a new four digit code, and then press and hold ENTER. The opener light should blink. If it doesn’t, press it again. Once you’re done, press 0 to exit the programming mode. 

You also have the option to set temporary codes, if needed. These are useful if you’re having a delivery made when you’re not home, so the delivery person can leave the item in your garage. They’re also good if a friend or family member needs to get in.

To set the code, enter your PIN, then hold * until the opener light blinks 3 times. Then, enter the temporary code and you should see the light blink 3 times again. Press ENTER again to exit the set up. 

Now you know exactly how to erase and change the codes on your garage door opener, keeping it secure and allowing everyone who needs it access. It’s easier than it looks, and only takes a few seconds. Make sure you change your codes when needed. 

If you’re thinking about having a new garage door opener installed, you may be wondering how to program it. Most garage door openers provide installation instructions, including how to program your various remotes. However, we’ve gathered a few tips to help you get started.

In this article, you will learn how to program a garage door to your car. If you need help, Your Garage Door Guys is always here to help. Our technicians have years of experience programming garage door openers.

Programming your garage door opener to open via remote is a convenient way to access your garage, as you won’t even need to get out of your car in order to use them. Just press the button on your remote or drive near the garage door, and you’ll be able to get your car in without having to get out. 

Here’s how to program a garage door to your car.

How Your Garage Door Opener Works

Before doing this, it’s worth knowing just how the garage door opener works. There are lot of different makes and models out there, so each model will be a little bit different in how they’re programmed. However, the way you’ll program them is always roughly the same. 

Most garage door openers are operated from a central control unit, which has a signal board or central computer. This partners up with a remote which you’ll have in your car, ready to be used whenever you need it. 

The remote and the opener transmit a radio signal between them, and so both need to be set to the same frequency. Once they’re set to the same frequency, the unit can work with the remote. The remote will send a signal to the unit, which recognizes it and moves the garage door for you. 

When You Need to Connect Your Remote to Your Garage Door Opener

Why might you need to reconnect your remote in your car to your garage door opener? As mentioned above you may need to connect it once you’ve had a brand new opener installed. You may also need to do it if you get a new remote, something that’s common if the old one is broken or lost. You’ll also need to reconnect them if the signal between them is broken in some way. 

If your remote isn’t currently working, there may be other reasons for this other than the remote being broken or needing to be reconnected. It may simply be that the batteries have run out, the garage door has been manually locked, or the opener has been unplugged. Check for these issues before you go ahead and reprogram the remote itself. 

How to Program a Garage Door to Your Car

Still need to program the garage door opener to the remote control? Then you’ll see that it’s quite easy to do so. Here’s how you do it: 

Step one: Look for a ‘learn’ button on the garage door opener unit. This should usually be near the radio antenna. Be aware that this may have a different name. 

Step two: Once you’ve found the ‘learn’ button, then you can press and release it. The LED next to the button should light up, which shows that the unit is ready to be programmed. 

Step three: Now, get your garage door remote and push the button that you want to use as the primary input for your device. You’ll need to hold it for around 10 seconds until it connects. At this point, the LED light should go off. 

Step four: Test the new program by opening and closing your garage door with the remote a few times. If it works, you’re good to go. 

The system for programming the garage door opener will be slightly different if you don’t have a remote, and are connecting directly to your car. Again though, it’s quite simple if you follow these steps:

Step one: Move your car into the garage, to ensure it can easily link with the garage door opener. Find the garage door opener panel in your car. This will likely be with the rest of the car controls, or above the driver’s seat. 

Step two: Once you find the panel, you need to locate the ‘program’ button. Again, this may be called something different, so be aware of that when you’re looking for it. 

Step three: Push the ‘program’ button for a few seconds, until the light starts to blink. At this point, the car remote will be ready to receive a new key code or to automatically link with a garage door opener near it. At this point, you may also need to press the ‘learn’ button on your garage door opener. You’ll need to consult your manual to see what you need to do. 

Step four: After you’ve programmed the remote, allow the button to rest for a couple of seconds. Then, test the opener by pressing the button. Your garage door should then open up. 

With both of these methods, you’ll want to check your garage door opener manual. This will give you more detailed instructions on how to program the machine, and you’ll get more info. If you don’t have the physical manual, it’s often quite simple to find the one for your opener online. 

Troubleshooting Your Remote

Have you checked for any simple issues, and even after reprogramming your remote you still can’t get the garage door opener to work? Then you’ll need to check for a few issues to see what’s wrong. 

In most cases, the culprit may not actually be your garage door opener, but the garage door itself. If there’s damage to the tracks or rollers, then it won’t be able to move. You’ll also want to take a look at the photo eyes if you see the garage door close halfway and then open again. That’s a sign they’re blocked or misaligned. 

If there’s no problem here, then it’s likely that the garage door opener has a faulty motherboard. In these cases, you’ll need to talk to a garage door repair expert, so they can fix the issue for you. 

Conclusion

Now that you know how to program a garage door to your car, you can move forward with confidence knowing you can get the job done.

It’s easier than you’d think to reprogram a garage door opener to your car. Use this guide to get everything connected, and you’ll be able to use your garage door opener quickly and easily. If you do need any help, make sure you talk to a garage door expert. 

Garage door opener interference can prevent you from opening and closing your garage door effectively.

You’ve been using your garage door opener normally with no problems at all when suddenly it just stops working. It’s a frustrating issue, especially when you just want to get into your garage at the end of the door. There are several things that could be causing the problem, but luckily it’s very easy to narrow it down. Here’s your full troubleshooting guide, so you can get your garage door opener working again. 

How Your Garage Door Opener Works

Before troubleshooting, it’s a good idea to understand how your garage door opener works. Your opener will contain a radio transmitter, which emits a radio signal across a specific frequency. If you start experiencing interference, then there is most likely something in your garage that’s emitting signals at the same frequency. 

It is most likely something in the garage that’s causing the interference, but it could be something in your home, or even in another property nearby, that could be doing it. To find out where the issue is coming from, you’ll need to do some troubleshooting to narrow it down. 

Rule Out The Simple Issues First

There’s a range of simple issues that could be causing the problem with your garage door opener. Before you do anything else, rule these out. 

Dead batteries: Take the batteries out of your remote and replace them with fresh ones, to see if this fixes the problem. It’s also a good idea to polish the contacts too if they’re looking rusty. 

Unlock the door: Your garage door opener can open the door without you touching it, but if the door is locked manually there’s nothing it can do. Check to see if the door has been locked, and unlock it if so. 

Get closer: The issue could be as simple as you being too far away from the garage door opener receiver. Get closer, and see if that will help you get it open. 

Get the remote out of the visor: Do you tend to keep your remote in your visor? If so, then this actually may be causing the problem. Something in the visor or the metal of the car roof may be causing interference. Take the remote out, and try it again. 

Move the antenna: The antenna on your garage door opener needs to be in the right position, to be able to receive the signal. It should be pointing straight down. If it isn’t, adjust it and try it again. 

Check Your LED Bulbs

Have you tried all these simple fixes and found that the garage door still won’t open? The next step is to check the LED bulbs you’re using in the garage. Many homeowners are using LED bulbs, as they’re more environmentally friendly and cheaper to run than traditional light bulbs. However, they’re actually interfering with garage door openers. 

The problem is that that emits a strong electromagnetic signal, one that’s strong enough to interfere with the signal from your remote. This is such a new problem that it’s only just coming to the attention of garage door specialists. 

You can try switching out your bulbs, to see if this helps. Brands such as Genie have actually come out with their very own bulb, one that’s shatter and vibration-proof. It also doesn’t cause radio interference, so it’s worth a try. 

Troubleshooting Garage Door Opener Interference

If you’re still not finding the issue, then it’s time to start testing for interference. There’s very likely something in your garage that’s causing the problem, so you should narrow down the culprits. 

The first thing to do is use an extension cord to plug your garage door opener into an outlet inside your home and then shut down power to the garage via the circuit breakers. Once you’ve done that, you can test the remote at various distances, and see if that opens the door. 

If you see the range improves when you do this, there’s something in your garage that’s causing this to happen. Turn the breaker back on, and start plugging things in one at a time. If you find the item that’s causing issues, you can then remove it from the garage. 

Didn’t find it? Then you have the option of doing a similar power down test, but with your entire home rather than just the garage. This can sometimes work, but many find it to be a long and tedious process. If you’re at this point, it’s a good idea to call in an electrician to see what they can do. 

Replacing Your Garage Door Opener

If you’re still not seeing any success with your tests, then it may be you need to change out your garage door opener. Swapping it out for one that works on a different frequency will most likely solve the issue for you. It’s best not to do this though unless you’ve done all the other tests in this guide first. 

There are some benefits to changing out your opener, though. There are lots of newer models that are smart garage door openers, so they can be connected to your internet. That allows you to open and close the garage door no matter where you are, through your phone. They’re also great for opening up the door for deliveries, even when you’re not home. 

If you are going for a new garage door opener, pick one that’s a dual-frequency model. This allows you to choose between the two, so there’s less chance of interference. 

Call The Experts

Still can’t get the garage door opener working? If you’re still having problems, it’ll be time to call in the experts. They’ll be able to help you get to the bottom of it. 

If you are having problems with your garage door opener, it may well be a radio frequency that’s interfering with it. Use this guide to work out where the problem is coming from, and deal with it quickly. That way you won’t have to deal with a non-functional garage door opener for long. 

Interested in learning how to program a LiftMaster garage door opener?

Lift Master garage door openers include a wide range of openers, including everything from residential openers to commercial openers. Now that you’ve had yours installed in your garage, you’ll need to program the remote controls, so you and only you can get into your garage at the press of a button. 

In this article, you will learn how to program a LiftMaster garage door opener.

If you run into trouble, you can always hire a professional garage door service that offers garage door opener installation or garage door opener programming.

How to Program A LiftMaster Garage Door Opener Remote

If you have a LiftMaster Max model, the programming process is a little different. However it’s still simple, so it won’t take you long to do. 

Here’s how to program a LiftMaster garage door opener:

• Locate the ‘program’ button on your garage door opener or keypad. 
• If you have a 890MAX or 895MAX opener, then you’ll need to press the ‘program’ button with a safety pin or paper clip until the LED on the remote control turns on. 
• If you have a 893MAX remote, the ‘program’ button will be on the back of the device, under the visor clip. 
• If you have an 877MAX keypad, press the * and # keys together until the lighted keys stop flashing and remain steady. 
• Now you’ve hit ‘program’, you’ll need to press and release the button that you wish to program. 
• Wait for the LED on the remote control to stop blinking, and then press and release the button again. Repeat this process until the light bulb blinks. 
• Once the light bulb is blinking, press any other button on the remote control. 

Then, your remote control is programmed and ready to go. 

The Importance Of Programming Your Remote Control

As soon as your garage door opener is installed, you should program your remote control. Once you have, only these controls will be able to open your garage door. This is so important for safety, as you want to ensure that the garage door is as secure as can be. Once the remote is programmed, no one can get in without that remote. 

That’s because modern garage door opener remotes use rolling codes. These are designed to change every time the garage door is opened. As the code changes every time, the code can’t be spoofed by someone sitting nearby your garage when you go in. This is just one link in the chain when it comes to garage security, so ensure you do this right away. 

Programming A Standard LiftMaster Remote Control

The great thing about a LiftMaster system is that they’re so easy to program. Here’s how you’ll program any standard remote control. 

• Find the ‘learn’ button on your garage door opener. This will usually be on the same side as the antenna. Be aware that you may need to remove the light lens to access it. The button will have a small LED beside it. 
• Once you’ve found the ‘learn’ button, press and release it. 
• Within 30 seconds of pressing the ‘learn’ button on your garage door opener, press and hold the button you wish to program on your remote for three seconds, and then release it. 
• If it was successful, then the LED light on the garage door opener will blink to indicate that it worked. 

Once you’ve done that, your garage door opener remote is ready to go. It really is a lot easier than you’d think. 

Troubleshooting Your Remote Control

Most of the time you’ll be programming your LiftMaster garage door opener remote because it has just been installed. However, it’s always worth knowing how to do it, as it’s a good way to tackle any issues with the remote if it stops working. Here are some other troubleshooting tips for your remote, if you’re experiencing problems. 

Check the batteries: In the vast majority of cases, the garage door remote isn’t working simply because the batteries have died. All you have to do here is swap out the existing batteries for a fresh set and try again. Take a look at the contacts too while you’re in there. If they look as though they’ve corroded, they may need polishing. 

Get closer: This is another simple solution. If you’re not close enough to the door, then the garage door opener can’t pick up the signal from the remote. Try getting closer to the door and press the button again. 

Check the door isn’t manually locked: Yet another common reason your remote won’t work is the garage door has been locked manually. It’s so easy to forget you’ve done this and then come back, trying to get in with the remote. Check the door isn’t locked before you troubleshoot further. 

Check the emergency release cord hasn’t been pulled: All good garage door openers will have an emergency release cord. This pulls the opener off the track, so it can’t open the door even if someone presses the button. This is usually done if you’re doing some work on the door itself. If you’ve worked on it recently, this may be why your remote isn’t working.

See if you’re opening someone else’s door: In some cases, if you’re pressing the button and your garage door won’t open, you may be opening someone else’s garage door instead. This happens if the rolling code being used is actually the same code on your neighbor’s garage door. It’s worth asking around to see if anyone’s garage door has been opening and closing on its own, and reprogram your remote. 

Try resetting the system: Much like your PC or phone, your garage door opener is basically a small computer. Sometimes, all it needs is a reset to get it working again. You can do this by removing the batteries from your remote for around 30 seconds, and then putting them back in. You can reset a receiver by unplugging the unit from the wall socket, again for around 30 seconds. 

Conclusion

Now that you know how to program a LiftMaster garage door opener, you can move forward with confidence and troubleshoot issues if needed.

Programming a LiftMaster remote control is so much easier than it looks. Follow these steps and it should work the first time. Then you’re ready to use your garage door opener every time you use the garage door. 

If you need help, consider contacting a professional garage door service in your area for help.

As you’re looking at getting a new garage door opener, you’ll see that most of them come with some kind of garage door opener battery. Of course, that’s a handy feature, but is it something that you need to get? If you’re living in California, it’s actually something that’s required by law. Let’s look at why this is, and how battery backup can help you. 

In this article, ew’re taking a closer look at what a garage door opener battery is and the advantages it offers homeowners.

A Garage Door Opener Battery is Required by Law

The law for battery backups for garage door openers dates back to 2017, when the state of California was ravaged by wildfires. This caused serious amounts of damage, and that included the destruction of power lines. Thanks to this, many homes lost power. 

When homeowners needed to escape their homes, they often tried to get out through their garages. When they came to open the garage door though, they couldn’t as the power was cut, so electric powered garage door openers couldn’t function. 

Some were able to bypass this by opening the door manually, but that wasn’t an option for some homeowners. There were at least five people who were found dead, as they couldn’t escape through the garage door. They were mostly elderly people, and the assumption is they didn’t have the physical strength to get the door open and get out. This number would have been higher, but others were saved after their neighbors saw they were struggling to get out, and assisted. 

Bringing Battery Backups Into Law

After this wildfire, it was seen that two million homes in California are at risk of wildfire, out of the 4.5 million overall in the US. Because of this, a state senate bill was introduced, to require all garage door openers to have a battery backup. This was Senate Bill 969, which was introduced by Bill Dodd. Dodd was actually involved in the wildfires, finding he couldn’t open his own garage door when they cut power to his home. 

The bill was highly supported and then was signed into legislature in September 2018. Now, when you install a new garage door opener, you’ll need to use one that has battery backup by law. 

Now, all manufacturers and garage door fitters know that all garage door openers must have a battery backup. Making, selling or fitting an opener that doesn’t have one is punishable by a $1,000 fine per violation. There’s also a $500 fine for any garage door that opener that’s installed and operational, but doesn’t have backup power. 

How Battery Powered Garage Door Openers Protect You

So as you’ve seen, you’re going to need a battery backup for your garage door opener. Even without legislature, they’re still highly useful to you as a homeowner. Here are some befits of having them installed:

A safety feature everyone can use: In the past, if the power went out you could simply open the garage door manually. However, that’s not something everybody can do. Elderly people, children, and people with disabilities may all find it difficult to do so. 

If there’s a battery backup, there’s no need to worry. Instead, you can simply use the garage door opener as usual. The garage door will open, and you’ll be able to get out. 

Perfect for routine power outages: While the battery is mostly in place to provide an escape route in emergencies, it also offers other advantages. If you have a regular power outage in your area, you won’t be stuck having to open the garage door manually when you get home. Instead, you just use the opener as usual and make your way in or out of the garage. It offers a lot more convenience to you if the power does go out. 

You can visually monitor your battery backup: One of the best things about battery backup is that you can keep an eye on them, and ensure they’re working as intended. Most batteries will have a light system, to show you how much battery is left. Once there is a red light showing, it’s time to change the battery out. It is recommended that you change the battery every two years, to ensure that it will be in full working order when you need it. 

Maintaining A Battery Backup

Your battery backup will need to be maintained, as part of your garage maintenance checklist. It’s very easy to test it and see if its working. Simple unplug the garage door opener from the mains and then attempt to use it using battery power. If it works as it should, then you should be good to go. Check the lights on the battery to see how much power you have left, and make sure you’re replacing that battery every two years. 

Also, remember that you shouldn’t use the battery power as default. It’s designed for short-term use, so keep your garage door opener plugged in. 

Picking The Right Garage Door Opener

When buying a new garage door opener, there are several things you need to consider. One of the first and most important things is that it has backup battery power. Make this your priority when you’re looking around. 

There are other things you’ll need to consider too, such as the style of the opener. Chain drive openers, for example, will be cheaper but noisier. A belt or screw drive will cost more, but be much quieter. 

These days, you also have the option of picking a WiFi-enabled garage door opener, which gives you a lot more benefits too. For example, you can control the garage door with an app on your phone, no matter where you are in the world. Some even come with the ability to schedule Amazon Prime deliveries, which is really helpful if you’re at work when they arrive. 

If you’re replacing your garage door opener, you’ll need to use a model with a battery backup as required by law. These will help you keep you safe in an emergency, and offer you other benefits too. Talk to your garage door fitter about what you can have fitted in your garage.