Garage Door Opener FAQs
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As the brain of your garage door system, it's important to understand how the garage door opener works and functions.
Do I need a battery backup?
You don’t need a battery backup, but it is a good feature to have. It can come in handy in the event that you lose power or your opener is unplugged and allows you to still open and close your garage door.
What are safety eyes and what do they do?
Safety eyes are located on either side of your garage door opening, towards the bottom of the track. They are an important part of any garage door system, as they aid in keeping people, pets and objects safe from a closing door. If the door tries to close while someone or something is in the opening, the safety eyes essentially tell the door to stop and it will not close until that person or thing is out of the way.
Do I need safety eyes?
Yes, you need safety eyes. Since 1993, it has been mandatory that all garage door openers have safety eyes. They help protect people, pets, and items from getting caught in a closing door because the door will not close if there is something in the doorway as it is closing.
How long should my motor last?
Your garage door motor should last between 12 and 15 years, but in some instances, can last longer.
What are some of the best garage door openers?
All of the LiftMaster openers we sell are equipped with WiFi and myQ technology. However, they offer different features and functions. Review the basic comparisons below or watch our video for more information!
- LiftMaster 8365 - AC motor with chain drive, standard lighting
- LiftMaster 8355 - AC motor with belt drive, standard lighting
- LiftMaster 8587 - AC motor with chain drive, standard lighting, Motion Detection Light Activation, Timer to Close
- LiftMaster 8550 - DC motor with belt drive, battery backup, standard lighting, Motion Detection Light Activation, Timer to Close
- LiftMaster 8550WLED - DC motor with belt drive, battery backup, built in LED lights, Motion Detection Light Activation, Timer to Close
- LiftMaster 85503 - DC motor with belt drive, battery backup, built in camera, standard lighting, Motion Detection Light Activation, Timer to Close
- 8500 Residential Wall Mount JackShaft - DC powered motor, battery backup, Motion Detection Light Activation, Timer to Close, requires a torsion spring system
Which garage door opener is best for me?
The garage door opener that you choose depends on your wants and needs as a homeowner.
Chain drive is an option if noise is not a concern or if you have a detached garage. They’re less expensive and typically have less features. Belt drive openers are better if your garage is attached to your home and there is a living space above your garage because they are quieter. It has more features and functions and the belt has a lifetime warranty. A residential jackshaft motor is a good option for people who have no overhead room in their garage, but it does require a torsion spring system.
Do I have to buy a new opener when I buy a new door or can I use my old one?
You don’t have to buy a new motor when you get a new door, but it is suggested that you do, especially if your garage door opener is older than 10 years. A new door can actually prolong the life of your existing garage door opener.
What horsepower garage door opener do I need for my garage door?
For a single wide garage door, you will need ½ horsepower. If you have a double wide garage door, ¾ horsepower is required because the door is heavier.
Which is noisier: chain drive opener or belt drive opener?
Typically, a chain drive opener is noisier than the belt drive.
License
Suffolk County HIC#54225-H