9 Reasons to Replace Your Garage Door Opener
Every modern home deserves a state-of-the-art garage door opener. These simple mechanisms come with a range of benefits, such as:
- Better security
- Improved convenience
- Remote access from anywhere around your home
- Automatic closing
Yet, although garage doors are incredibly durable (lasting between 10-15 years on average), they will eventually need replacing due to general wear and tear.
It is not very often that you have to purchase a new garage door opener for your home. But if your device is old or faulty, it might be time to consider a smarter, safer upgrade. The last thing you’d want is to get stuck in the garage on your way to work or school.
Not sure when to replace your garage door opener? We can help you decide. Here are nine definitive reasons to make the switch.
Quick Answer:
- Your garage door opener is outdated and no longer operates effectively.
- You have misplaced the remote control to your garage door opener.
- Your garage door opener is making strange noises or malfunctioning.
- You want to purchase a newer model with additional features like a smartphone control or a backup power source.
- You have recently purchased a new garage door and need a compatible garage door opener.
- Your garage door opener’s battery backup has failed amidst a power outage.
- You want to ramp up your home security by installing a garage door opener with additional security features.
- You want to increase the value of your home by installing a newer, more modern garage door garage and opener.
- A warranty no longer covers your garage door opener, and you want to avoid costly repairs in the future.
9 Benefits of Replacing Your Garage Door Opener
If your opener is past its prime and at risk of failing, it makes sense to get it replaced. However, there are plenty of other benefits to buying a new garage door opener.
Ready? Let’s dive in!
1. Improved Security
Your trusty 15-year-old garage door can do a terrific job of keeping you safe. That is, until an innovative burglar hacks your DIP-switch-operated opener and cleans out your home.
A garage door with poor security can be an easy access point for burglars and intruders. And while old openers may have worked seamlessly in their heyday, they are no match for innovative hackers with special devices.
That’s where newer garage door openers take the cake.
Most modern openers use cutting-edge technology to incorporate previously impossible functions. A classic example of this would be the dual-frequency feature. These devices use two different frequencies, minimizing the chances of your garage door signal getting mixed up with your neighbor’s (a common problem in densely populated areas).
Want additional security? Choose a garage door opener with a “rolling code.” Besides preventing your door from being accidentally triggered by your neighbor’s remote, they also keep burglars from cracking your access code. Every time you use the remote, it selects a new code from billions of combinations.
2. Enhanced Convenience
Gone are the days when you had to hoist and lower your garage door manually. The latest generation garage door openers come with remote and cellphone connectivity, allowing you to lock/unlock your garage without stepping out of your car. They can even alert you when your garage door is open, no matter where you’re located. What’s not to love about that?
3. Quiet Operation
Does your garage door opener make a racket every time you open and close it? If so, you most definitely need a replacement. You don’t want to wake the neighborhood when returning from an early morning workout session.
Newer garage door models are designed with quiet operation in mind. They use a belt drive system that greatly reduces the noise while you’re operating your door opener, giving you peace and quiet every time you enter or leave your home.
4. Increased Energy Efficiency
Given how the average energy prices in the U.S. rose to nearly $0.165 in December 2022, there’s no time like now to reduce your energy consumption.
Fortunately, modern garage door openers are incredibly energy-efficient, so they are unlikely to derail your energy budget. Moreover, the most recent models require even less power and are equipped with energy-saving modes!
Some garage door openers also offer a solar panel-powered structure. While the upfront cost of this setup is slightly higher, you’ll save a fortune in the long run.
5. Better Overall Performance
Like all machines, your garage door opener is bound to wear out at some point. A few signs of such damage are:
- Grating noises
- Visible vibrations
- Opening then reversing
- Intermittent or unresponsive opening
In case your garage door opener is already on its last legs, consider replacing it with a newer model instead of shelling out for repairs. Not only will this save you money in the long run, but a new opener could also bring more convenience and security to your home.
6. Improved Safety
A faulty garage door opener is a safety hazard. Since a typical garage door can weigh up to 300 pounds, federal law now requires sensors on all new garage door openers to prevent children, animals, and adults from being crushed.
In this regard, there are different types of sensors you can choose from. Of these, automatic reverse sensors are the most common. These sensors signal the garage door to stop and reverse direction when an obstruction blocks its way. It’s a great fit for homes with children or pets.
7. Enhanced Aesthetics
If you think garage door openers are purely utilitarian, think again. The right style of opener can significantly boost your curb appeal and help your home make a lasting impression.
Modern garage door openers are available in a plethora of styles, designs, and colors to suit various home exteriors. From contemporary minimalist to vintage chic, there are several options for you to browse. All you need to do is carefully consider your home’s aesthetics, and voila! You’ll find something that fits it perfectly.
8. Increased Property Value
A new garage door opener can also add value to your home. Potential buyers will appreciate the security and convenience that come with a modern, cutting-edge installation. It’s an easy way to elevate the appeal of your home. Additionally, going for a feature-rich opener will attract the attention of tech-savvy buyers.
9. Maintenance and Repairs
Let’s face it: rickety garage door openers are harder to maintain. The older they get, the more frequently they fall apart. And no matter how handy you are, DIY repairs are dangerous.
If your garage door opener has been bugging you for a while, we suggest exchanging it for a brand-new model. They usually require less maintenance compared to their older counterparts.
Make no mistake: regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your opener and prevent costly repairs down the road. A professional garage door repair company can check your opener and keep it running smoothly. If your opener does need repairs, a professional will be able to diagnose and fix the issue quickly and efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Replace the Garage Door Opener Myself, or Do I Need a Professional?
Don’t let the tutorials fool you: replacing a garage door opener is harder than it seems. An incorrect installation can also leave your home and family prone to accidents/damage.
Hence, having a professional set up your new garage door opener is best. They have the expertise and equipment to do the job correctly the first time around.
That’s not all. A professional installation also ensures that your opener works properly and is covered under the manufacturer’s warranty. It’s a win-win!
What Factors Should I Consider When Choosing a New Garage Door Opener?
Although all openers can open and close your garage door,
they’re not made the same. Every garage door opener has its unique attributes, so it’s up to you to decide what works best for your home.
When picking a new garage door opener, you must pay attention to its:
- Horsepower options
- Backup power options
- Drive style
- Weight capacity
- Security features
- Energy efficiency
- Safety options
How Much Does It Typically Cost to Replace a Garage Door Opener?
Contrary to popular belief, garage door opener replacements do not cost an arm and a leg. However, the exact prices will vary based on your neighborhood and the type of opener you want. Get a free estimate from a potential garage door repair company before you budget for a new model.
How Long Does It Typically Take to Replace a Garage Door Opener?
There is no definitive answer to this question. While it typically takes about four to six hours to install a garage door opener, this timeframe may change depending on the size of the door, the type of installation, the weather conditions, and more.
The Wrap Up
A quality and functional garage door opener is crucial to home safety. You must replace it at the first sign of trouble rather than wait for it to break. And in case you’re still on the fence about when to replace garage door openers, consider these nine benefits to make up your mind!
Looking for a trusted contractor to set up your new garage door opener? Your search ends with Safe Way Garage Doors! Trust us to impress you with our experienced, fast, and round-the-clock service. We install and repair all makes and models of garage door openers, including brands like Genie, LiftMaster, and Chamberlain.
Contact us for a free estimate today!
