A working garage motor can be a huge convenience. Not only does it help you open and close your door, but it can also add value to your home. A malfunctioning garage opener can also cause serious injury, so you should replace it as soon as possible. The average motor lasts about 10 to 15 years. However, you should not ignore the quality of the motor you buy. The cheaper models may not last as long. You should look for a model that’s at least a half-horsepower and can open and close heavy doors.
The most efficient garage motor is a direct drive model. This is because it creates less friction and requires less maintenance. These models are also fairly quiet. They also come with the benefit of connecting to your wireless network, making them ideal for homes with smart phones or other devices.
A direct drive garage door motor is the most expensive of the bunch. The gears are typically in good working order, but may wear out sooner than other models. This type of opener can be sensitive to temperature fluctuations, which means it needs lubrication twice a year.
Other features include a battery backup to allow the garage to be opened manually in the event of a power outage. This is especially important if your garage has a heavy door.
The new garage door openers are also much quieter. They come with an app that lets you set up your own schedules and check the status of your door from your smartphone. The app’s integrated speaker helps to communicate with other devices in the house. They’re also compatible with Apple HomeKit and Google Assistant.
Another cool feature is the “learn” button. These garage door openers use a light and motor to teach you how to operate it. The light should turn on if you press the button, and it should also blink when you enter a unique code. This is a bit more complicated than the usual acessory, and if you’re unfamiliar with the function, it’s likely you’ll be doing it yourself.
Unlike a simple motor replacement, replacing the entire door opener requires a few safety measures. First, make sure the wires are secure before you begin. Second, make sure you’ve got the proper tools to carry out the project. Finally, be sure to inform any neighbors that you’re performing work on your property. If you don’t have anyone around to assist, hire an expert for the job.
The garage door opener is a remarkably complex machine, and it’s possible to be injured by attempting a repair without the correct safety measures. For instance, if you attempt to remove a broken sprocket, you could injure yourself or damage your door. The key to a successful replacement is making sure you have the right tools for the job. Lastly, it’s a good idea to check your garage for obstructions, such as bushes, before you start.
A new garage door opener is a great way to increase the value of your home, but you should know the proper steps before you begin. It’s important to research what you’re getting and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.