The garage door motor is a very important part of your automatic door opener, which is why you should have a professional install it. You can choose from a variety of different motors and accessories that will let you customize your garage opener. Some of the available options include manual locks that prevent unauthorized remote control use, battery backup for operation during power outages and soft-start and stop motor features that reduce wear on the mechanism and make operation quieter.
Depending on the type of door you have, you will need to determine what size motor will work best for your needs. For most doors, a 1/2 hp motor will work well for either a single or double sectional door. For a larger, heavier door, a 3/4 or 1 hp model may be required. Once you have determined what type of motor and accessories will be needed for your garage door, you can purchase the appropriate parts.
When you have purchased your new opener, read the detailed installation instructions before starting. Begin by putting together the main assembly, which should come in several pieces that fit easily together. Attach the rail on which the trolley will slide, then mount the door arm. The door arm connects the trolley and the door, allowing the door to be raised and lowered by the motor.
Most garage door motors come with a list of options that you can customize during the installation process, such as a keyless entry system, LED sensor eyes to help prevent children and pets from running into the door while it is closing, and a rolling code remote control feature that prevents unauthorized remote controls from opening your garage. You can also add additional safety features, such as physical sensors that stop and reverse the door if something or someone is in its path, or manual override buttons on each garage door.
After installing the motor, you can mount the wall-mounted control box. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for positioning and mounting the unit, which should be high enough to allow tall people to reach it without having to stand on a step ladder. You will also need to run wires from the motor unit up to the control panel.
If you plan to use a chain or belt-driven opener, you will also need a metal chain or belt guide kit. These are usually placed along the ceiling and attached to two-by-four header brackets that hold the track above the garage door opening. A guide will help keep the trolley on the track and guide it properly as it moves up and down.
Most manufacturers design their openers to work with doors up to 7 feet tall. If you have a taller door, you can upgrade to a special opener with a rail extension kit that will allow the trolley to move further back on the rail to accommodate a longer door. This can be very dangerous, however, because the springs and cables that balance the door are tightly tensioned and could break, causing serious injury.