As its name sounds, a garage door opener is a device used to open or close your garage door from a short distance without getting out of your car. It provides you with illuminated, easy access to your home and can go a long way toward improving your home’s security. Features such as home-automation-system connectivity and smart-device compatibility make it even more convenient.
Garage door openers come in different models, shapes and sizes, with each type serving a different set of needs and purposes. Therefore, you will need to consider all the aspects involved when buying a garage door opener.
Different types of garage door openers
Standard door openers have a simple design. A motor is used to drive a trolley that is fixed to the garage door. As the trolley moves, it makes the door open and close. What sets different garage door opener models apart from each other is how the motor drives the trolley.
Chain-drive garage door openers employ a metal chain to move the trolley and lower or raise the door. These types of models are affordable. But they tend to create more vibration and noise than other models available in the market. If noise isn’t an issue for you, you can go for such openers.
Screw-drive garage door openers employ a threaded steel rod to drive the lifting mechanism. As the steel rod moves, it drives the trolley to lower or raise the door. These types of openers are quieter than chain drive models.
Belt-drive garage door openers operate similar to chain drive models but employ a belt instead of a chain to drive the trolley. The belt offers smoother, quieter operations, making it the perfect choice for homes with sleeping or living spaces adjacent to the garage.
