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Must-Learn Tips to Open Your Garage Door Without Power

opened garage door

Going home to a malfunctioning garage door can be disappointing. Whether it’s a run-down battery in the remote or a power outage, you should understand how to open and close your overhead door manually.

Learning the right procedure to open your garage door without power will be a significant help. To open it successfully on your own, you will have to recognize the usual causes, typical series of steps, and safety pointers.

Here are the Steps to Open Your Garage Door Without Power

1. Ensure all the springs, cables, and the rest of your garage door system are unbroken.

If the door is already harmed, you might end up impairing it more during the procedure. A broken spring or cable could harm you as well. Once you find any garage door issues, it will be best to contact a specialist for a garage door service and repairs.

2. Ensure your garage door is in the down position or fully closed before trying to disconnect the door opener from the garage door.

Trying to disconnect the opener during the time that your door is in the open position is immensely hazardous and not recommended. If the spring is impaired or not well balanced, letting go of the opener could lead to the garage door shutting with a crash to the ground. It could cause a lot of damage and bodily injury.

3. When you have checked and confirmed there are no issues that need professional repair, you will want to locate the emergency release cord.

This cord has a red handle and will hang from the heart of the overhead door mechanism. If you do not see a red cord, but notice a cord hanging from the heart of the door mechanism, it is possibly the emergency cord. You may use a ladder to get to it.

4. Pull the emergency release cord until the lever goes into a down position.

This process will cause the lever to disconnect from the door opener carriage. Once you released the lever, you can now lift the garage door without any electricity. Move the door up until it’s back to its end. Ensure it’s fully open to avoid having it fall on your car or yourself.

5. If you cannot easily lift the garage door from the floor, you will have to consult a professional.

Have them inspect the door to see if there are any broken parts. A smooth opening shows that the springs are properly balanced, and you can be sure you are not impairing your garage door by opening it without power.

6. Once the door is totally open, you can drive your car into the garage.

Then, you can close the garage door the way you wide-opened it. Push the lever upward and pull the cord towards the garage door motor until you hear a loud mechanism click to reengage the carriage and have your door work electrically again.

More Tips to Cautiously Open Your Overhead Door Manually

Aside from the above-mentioned steps, you may also do the following precautions to ensure safety while manually opening the garage door:

1. Before opening the door on your own, disconnect the power cord from your garage door first even if there’s a power outage.

2. Never attempt to move manually an impaired garage door. Call a professional in this case.

3. Read the owner’s manual to acquire some crucial information about lifting your garage door manually.

4. Never repair broken cables or springs on your own. It’s highly risky.

Need a Professional Assistance? Call Inland Overhead Door

It is indeed frustrating to see your overhead door malfunctioning due to several reasons. If you notice your overhead door is malfunctioning and you are unsure of the exact cause, consult Inland Overhead Door Company at once.

We assure you that our team of overhead door specialists can handle all garage door issues you have. Our services are available even in emergencies, 24/7.

Any questions about our services? Feel free to call us today.

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What is the Lifespan of My Garage Door Opener? –  An FAQ

What is the Lifespan of My Garage Door Opener - An FAQ

“How long do garage door openers last?” – This is a frequently asked question by home and business owners. Like other mechanical items, makers do not design garage door openers to last forever. Generally, the lifespan of a garage door opener is 10 to 15 years, depending on the usage and regularity of maintenance.

The most reasonable thing you can do to lengthen the lifespan of your garage door opener is sustaining professional maintenance, such as:

  • Visual inspection of the springs, rollers, track, pulleys, and cables
  • Lubrication of moving parts to ensure your garage door opener works properly
  • Making sure that the garage door is adequately balanced
  • Performing a reversal test
  • Garage interior maintenance – must be cool, dry, and free of objects that may impair the door opener

Reasons to Consider When Deciding to Replace Your Garage Door Opener

1. Age of your garage door opener

Age is the main factor that owners change their door opener systems, even though they are still operating fine. Indeed, taking note of when the opener system was installed is a must. The actual age of the door opener is an excellent basis for deciding whether you need to replace it.

Many owners prefer newer models with improved safety, security, and convenience features. Consult a certified overhead door specialist if you are uncertain of your door opener’s age or wear.

2. Safety reversing feature

Modern types of garage door openers have a safety reversing feature. This mechanism has two sensors on both sides of the overhead door, about six inches above the ground. When any objects obstruct the sensors while the garage door is closing, the door instantly halts and reverses direction.

If your door opener system does not have a safety reversing mechanism, it is best to replace it as a precautionary measure.

3. You want a more peaceful and quiet door opener operation

The first style of garage door opener usually opens and closes with a chain drive. Every time it moves up and down, it creates unwanted noises. Consider replacing it with a belt-drive or screw-drive opener.

Although the latest version of the chain drive unit is quieter than the old model, screw drives are much softer, and belt drives are the most noiseless.

4. More improved security feature

Burglars know that older garage door openers are more unprotected because their remote controls perform with a specified code. These people are clever enough to use a particular gadget to break the code, letting them open the garage door.

The latest models of door openers consist of a ‘rolling code’ mechanism that alters the code every time the owner uses the unit. It means robbers cannot get and copy the code to break into your garage.

5. Door openers with battery backup system

It is very inconvenient to see your overhead door suddenly stops working due to a power outage because your door opener does not have a battery backup.

New versions of door openers already have battery backup features that will start operating automatically when your area unexpectedly loses electricity.

6. Homelink feature

If your car has the Homelink feature and a newer garage door opener, you can link the two together. From there, you can program and manipulate your garage door using the car’s controls without needing a remote control device.

7. Door openers with wireless or smart-home characteristics

The newer door openers provide WiFi and mobile-phone connectivity through a designated app that lets you monitor and control your garage door’s movement from a distant place. This feature also notifies you when your overhead door is open, no matter where you are.

Signs of a Faulty Garage Door Opener

Owners should pay attention to the following signs of a faulty door opener:

  • You notice a lagging or disengaged opener.
  • When your garage door operates, you can hear strange noises from the door opener.
  • The unit shows an unstable opening or a change in movements.
  • Your door opener strongly vibrates.

Consult with Inland Overhead Door Company for Door Services

Even if you are proactive in doing door opener routine maintenance, there will still be a time that you need to replace it. If your existing overhead door opener system needs a tune-up or total upgrade, do not hesitate to consult a certified garage door company.

Our garage door specialists are consistently reachable to assist you in identifying the appropriate choice that works with your door unit. You can count on us 24/7. Contact us today!

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Learn About Belt vs Chain Garage Door Opener

Learn About Belt vs Chain Garage Door Opener

When your garage door opener breaks, consider having it replaced with either belt or chain garage door opener. Those two are the most common types of openers that a property owner will likely encounter. To assist you with the best option, let’s tackle some advantages and disadvantages of belt vs chain garage door opener.

Chain vs Belt Drive

  • Chain Drive Garage Door

To open the garage door, this type of drive belt uses a chain that is made of metal. This chain is attached to the tension spring that lifts the heavy door up and down and this chain drive requires less space. Moreover, this type is widely used in residential garages since it’s readily available and affordable.

  • Belt Drive Garage  Door

To open the garage door, this type of garage opener uses a rubber belt. Opening and closing the door triggers the rubber belt to slide a trolley.

Pros and Cons for Belt vs Chain Garage Door Opener

Belt Drive Pros and Cons

  • Since belt drive garage doors are made of rubber, they are more silent to operate.
  • They are readily available online and in various home improvement stores.
  • They are more durable which means that these belt drive garage door openers can manage significant lifts.
  • Replacing and installing a worn or broken belt drive is much easier than a chain drive.
  • Belt drives are easy to maintain because you don’t need to lubricate them regularly.
  • However, belt drive garage door openers are usually pricey because of the type of materials used to construct the

Chain Drive Pros and Cons

  • Chain drives can last for years if properly maintained.
  • Even if humidity or temperature varies, they are not subject to performance issues.
  • They are readily available in a variety of retailers, from megastores to smaller stores such as local hardware stores.
  • These openers are more affordable since they are constructed from inexpensive steel. Moreover, the replacement of parts in the future will be less cost-effective.
  • However, there are some disadvantages of chain drives:
  1. Since chain drive openers are durable and with consistent performance, they operate noisily. Especially if your car garage door is attached to your home or near your bedroom, the noise from metal friction can wake up your kids!
  2. When you open or close your garage door, sometimes it will create vibrations and lift in a shaky manner. This is because of the nature of the chain mechanism.
  3. Chain drive openers need regular maintenance every six months due to the presence of steel. So they should be kept free from excess dirt and moisture as they could lead to rust.

So Which is the Best Garage Door Opener?

Most experts choose belt drives to be the best product, however,, they tend to overlook many other factors that are valuable to the homeowner. In addition, your reasoning should also consider the size of your garage and also the weather conditions in your place. If you want to get the perfect garage door opener, you have to know your personal preferences and must account for what you really need.

With this article on belt vs chain garage door opener and with some advice from garage door professionals, you can now make an informed decision regarding which type should be installed in your home.

Seek Help From Professionals for Garage Door Installation

This guide can help you choose the appropriate type of opener in your garage. Though you are now aware of the pros and cons of belt vs chain garage door opener, you may still tackle more details with experts. Be it chain or belt garage door, our company can help you decide which one is best for your property.

And whenever you need assistance in purchasing a new opener or just identifying the right option for your home or office, our team at Inland Overhead door is always ready to help. You can trust our company and we make sure to provide not only quality garage doors but the best services for your garage door needs!

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Types of Garage Door Openers – What Buyers Need to Know

Types of Garage Door Openers - What Buyers Need to Know

Garage door openers are motorized or electrical devices that open and close a garage door controlled by switches installed on the garage wall. Also, most openers have handheld remote controls that can operate the door from a short distance. 

Before you purchase a new garage door opener, you need to know the mechanics of the available openers in the market. Plus, take note that different opener systems will work with particular types of remote control better than others.

What You Have to Consider When Choosing a Garage Door Opener in the Market

Choosing a garage door opener is a challenging thing to decide on. Here’s what you have to consider before purchasing a new one:

  • The size and weight of your garage door
  • Kind of material used for your garage door
  • Horsepower
  • Type of power used (either AC or DC)
  • Noise (a quieter type suits you if you are sensitive to noise)
  • Safety mechanisms such as automatic reversing action sensors, infrared beams, and rolling codes
  • Budget (the most crucial factor)

Types of Garage Door Openers

 

1. Chain Drive Garage Door Openers

 

  • Chain drive door openers are the most common door openers.
  • They suit almost all widths and heights of garage doors.
  • Least expensive. 
  • Chain drive openers use a chain to move the garage door on the track.
  • They are best used for insulated, wooden, or any heavier door.

Pros: durable and strong

Cons: noisy when opening the garage door due to the metal-to-metal contact and vibration; not suited for garages placed under living areas; needs more maintenance 

 

2. Belt Drive Garage Door Openers

 

  • Belt drive openers operate with a rubber belt rather than a chain.
  • These can be used when doors are light and heavy. They are also best for both multi-panel and one-piece doors.

Pros: the quietest type of garage opener – smooth motion alternative to chain-drive; produces less vibration compared to other garage door openers

Cons: more costly than a chain drive opener; requires more maintenance; belt tends to slip during warmer and humid temperatures; has a shorter life span

 

3. Screw Drive Garage Door Openers

 

  • Screw drive openers contain a threaded metal rod that functions as a screw when the doors open and close.

Pros: slightly pricey compared to other types of garage openers; has fewer moving parts compared to other different types, so it is easy to maintain; quieter than chain drive openers

Cons: have to make sure that all parts are adequately lubricated; may experience problems with the device when temperatures shift; not fit for heavier, one-piece doors; makes more noise than a belt drive opener

 

4. Jackshaft Garage Door Openers

 

  • This type of garage door opener is installed on the wall beside the garage door. 
  • Jackshaft openers use a 24v DC motor that operates pulleys and cables which turn the torsion bar and lift the door. They also work for large doors.
  • These are well-suited for garages with angled, low, or high ceilings or when you want to keep some space accessible for overhead storage. 

Pros: maximizes storage space; almost quiet; has improved safety features; has customizable features as well

Cons: the price is higher compared to other garage door opener types; only used for sectional doors

 

5. Direct Drive Openers

 

  • Direct drive openers have only one moving part and use a fixed chain in a stable steel rail.
  • They are best for taller garage doors.

Pros: requiring little or no maintenance; comes with lifetime warranties

Cons: more costly than most garage door openers; not as common as other types of garage door openers; a little harder to find

 

6. DC-Powered Garage Door Openers

 

  • This type is smoother operating – quieter, smaller, lighter, faster, and more efficient than AC models.
  • DC-powered openers come with changeable speeds, empowering soft-start and soft-stop technology.
  • These are equipped with a battery backup system, so they will continue to work for up to two days when there’s a power outage.

Pros: durable; still works even when power fails

Cons: more expensive than other types

Additional Garage Door Opener Features

 Before purchasing a new garage door opener, you may also check and consider the following additional features: 

  • Door reversal
  • Entrapment sensors
  • Battery backup
  • Internet connectivity
  • Smart home connections
  • Touchpads or keypads for remote entry
  • Rolling code security technology
  • Overhead lights

Consult an Expert

 The garage door is a vital entrance to your business. You must choose a suitable garage door opener to safeguard your property and give you and your employees access in a convenient way.

 Consult an expert garage door company about your possible choices. Inland Overhead Door has a reliable team of professionals who perfectly knows how to help you pick a suitable garage door opener and install it safely.

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Why Should You Replace Your Garage Door Opener

Why Should You Replace Your Garage Door Opener

The garage door opener is the small, motorized device that is located above your garage door. It is an important piece of your door system that opens and closes a garage door. Unfortunately, garage door openers do not last forever. When damaged, it will be difficult or impossible to open or close your garage door. Keep reading to learn more about the reasons why you should replace your garage door. This article also includes information about how long do garage door openers last.

How Long Do Garage Openers Typically Last?

Like any other type of device, over time, garage door openers’ gears and parts can wear out. The average lifespan of a garage door opener is 10 to 15 years. This life expectancy can increase by keeping up with routine care. Not lubricated moving parts can cause the door to wear out quickly.

To ensure the door opener can last longer is to have it serviced with garage door opener experts. Their service will include the following;

1. A visual inspection of the door’s parts like rollers, cables, springs, and tracks.

2. Lubricating the moving parts for smoother operation.

3. Proper balancing of the door

4. Testing automatic reversal and more.

 

Why Do I Need To Replace My Garage Door Opener

If your garage door opener is aging and showing some signs of failing, then it is time to consider replacing it. Furthermore, modern door openers offer increased safety, security, and convenience. They might be a good reason to replace your opener even if yours is still working fine.

Added Safety

Since 1993, garage door openers have been equipped with a reverse mechanism. This feature comes with sensors or photo eyes. When an object or person enters into the door’s path while closing, the door will immediately stop and reverse direction.

If your garage door opener does not have this safety feature, it is highly recommended to replace it.

Improved Security

Because of the fixed-code system installed in older garage door openers, they are at a serious security risk. With a special device, a burglar can hack the code and gain access to your property. On the other hand, newer garage door openers have a rolling code system that changes every time it is in use. With this feature, thieves cannot easily duplicate the code and enter your property uninvited.

Convenience

Newer models have certain features and functionalities that offer simplified operation.

One example is the wireless “smart home” feature. With a proper app installed on a mobile device, you can monitor your door and control its functions. There is no remote control necessary for this system. It can also alert you whenever a potential issue arises, no matter where you are located.

Another great feature of newer garage door openers is the battery backup. A battery backup system can save you and allow you to operate the door even during a power outage.

Quieter Operation

When garage door openers get older, they become noisier in operation. A new opener or modern one tends to run with lesser noise. A chain-drive opener can be quieter in operation. If you want an opener with the least noise during operation, choose between screw drives or belt-drive garage door openers.

 

Garage Door Opener Replacement in the Inland Empire

Overhead Door Company of the Inland Empire has a wide selection of modern and high-quality garage door openers. We have a team of professionals ready to attend to all your garage door opener needs and door services.

To learn more about our garage door products and services, contact us today.

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Top 5 Garage Door Opener Problems 

Top 5 Garage Door Opener Problems

A garage door opener is a motorized device that controls the opening and closing of a garage door. You can mostly find it on the wall or ceiling above the garage door. Though garage door openers, with good maintenance, can last up to 15 years, they can be prone to different issues. The garage door opener problems can cause disruptions to the daily operations of your business. 

Some garage door opener problems are usually easy to understand and the solutions are pretty easy. However, if the problem seems complicated, you may contact a professional garage door repair company like Inland Overhead Door. 

 

Common Garage Door Opener Problems

Below are the most common problems you may encounter with your garage door opener and solutions that can help you fix the problem. 

Problem #1: Garage door remote control or wall switch does not operate the opener

If the door does not operate when using the remote control or pressing the wall switch, the reason could be the power source has been disrupted. In most cases, power disruption to the garage door opener might be because the opener itself has been unplugged or the fuse, breaker, or GFCI outlet that provides power supply to the opener circuit has burned out or tripped. 

Check the outlet and make sure that the cord is plugged in. Or, check to see if the outlet is working by plugging another electronic device into it. If the breaker or the GCFI outlet trips, it is a sign that there is a problem with the system and you need an electrician to check and repair it. For a burned-out outlet, it needs replacement. 

Furthermore, if the door opener’s motor has burned out or isn’t working at all, hire a garage door opener professional.

Problem #2: Garage door not closing all the way

If the garage door opens, but does not close all the way or immediately pops open again, it could be because of these reasons; the limit setting isn’t set properly and the photo-eye is blocked or needs adjustment. 

The limit setting needs adjustment

A garage door limit setting is another safety mechanism (aside from the safety sensor) that keeps people from being hit. If the setting is off, the door will close completely. But, if the setting is not right, the door won’t close properly and will automatically reverse to prevent damage. Adjust your garage door opener limit setting to stop your door from reversing.

The photo-eye is blocked or needs alignment

Modern garage doors have a photo eye located at the bottom of the door on each side. These eyes detect if a person or item is blocking the door all the way down. If the line of view is clear, the door will close smoothly and completely. But, if anything is blocking the line or if the eyes are misaligned, the door will not descend properly. As a result, the door will stop and reverse automatically. Make sure that the sight path is clear and the garage door sensors are aligned properly. 

Problem #3: Garage door Won’t Open With remote control or Keypad

If a wireless remote control or mounted keypad does not operate the garage door, the problems are pretty simple to solve. It is possible that the remote batteries are depleted or the signal between the transmitter and the opener is disconnected. 

If the door functions well with a wall-mounted switch, try to replace the batteries to the remote control. Furthermore, if the door does not operate even after placing new batteries in the remote, the signal might be disconnected. Move closer to the door and make sure that the antennae are hanging down from the motor. 

If none of them works, try reprogramming the remote control or keypad. Sometimes, the signal in the remote or keypad can lose and may need to be reassociated. 

Problem #4: Garage Door Won’t Open Completely

If the garage door opens and stops close to fully open, the issue is most likely the up-limit switch may need to be relocated closer to the motor unit. This switch is usually a simple touch-lever positioned near the motor unit at the end of the track. If the switch is too far away, the motor will stop the door from fully opening.

In some cases, this issue is not related to the garage door opener. For instance, broken or balky rollers can prevent the door from opening fully. Check and replace damaged rollers and lubricate rollers that are rusty.

Problem#5: The garage door opens, however, the motor won’t stop

This garage door opener problem usually occurs when you first install the opener. If your garage door opens, but the motor does not stop, you may need to move the up-limit switch farther from the motor unit. 

 

How To Manually Open A Garage Door

  1. Get a ladder and place it beneath the garage door’s operating chain.
  2. Find the red cord that is hooked to the lever and pull the cord until the lever is locked in the down position. The cord should release the door and allow you to move it. 
  3. Step down the ladder, then lift the door with your two hands. If the door won’t move, go back up and pull the cord harder.
  4. Once the door is off the ground, do not let it go. Prop the door with something to prevent it from sliding down. 

If the door is too heavy to lift, don’t hurt yourself. Call for help or contact garage door professionals to assist and help you with your garage door problems.

Inland Overhead Door is here to help

Overhead Door Company provides quality commercial and industrial garage door services in the Inland empire. We have a dedicated team of garage door experts ready to professionally fix any of your garage door problems.

Let our team take care of your garage door problems. Rest assured that we will provide you a lasting solution that will keep your garage door running for years. To know more about our garage door services, contact us today. 

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How To Manually Unlock Your Garage Door When The Power Is Out

How To Manually Unlock Your Garage Door When The Power Is Out

No wonder that automatic garage doors have provided convenience to their users. With an opener on hand, you won’t have to get in (or out) of your car to open or close your garage door, which is particularly useful during bad weather. However, circumstances like power outage can render your garage door useless and cause a great inconvenience. When this happens, do not panic. When the power is out, this article is about the steps you can take on how to manually unlock your garage door.

How To Manually Unlock Your Garage Door When The Power is Out

Most of the automatic garage doors are equipped with a manual release. This is a system that allows you to manually open your door in case of an emergency or when the power is out. You don’t need to contact a garage door company to solve this problem if you know how to manually open your garage door.

Open Your Garage Door Manually From the Inside

  • Find any deadbolts, switches, or locks near the outside of the garage door, make sure to disengage them. This prevents them from interfering with you manually opening the door.
  • Once they are unlocked, disconnect the power for the opener or remove the battery of the opener to successfully open the door.
  • Then, it is time to locate the emergency release cord. It is a red handle or cord that hangs at the center rail of the garage door track. It is attached to the trolley that joins the arm of the door to the center track. Please note that the emergency release cord should only be used when the garage door is completely closed.
  • Pull the emergency release handle in a downward motion. This will disengage the garage door from the trolley and allows you to open the door manually.
  • Now, with moderate force, lift the garage door. Pull straight from the bottom until the door goes up and stops moving. Make sure that the door is securely in place before letting it go or backing your car out of the garage.
  • Once you have managed to safely get your car out of the garage, close the door. If it has a lock bar, slide lock to prevent accidents.

Open Your Garage Door Manually From the Outside

  • Almost all garage doors are built with emergency release mechanisms. To unlock your garage door from the outside, you need to look for a small lock. This is located at the center near the garage door. This mechanism should have a key that corresponds to the lock.
  • Then, unlock the emergency release cord by turning the key and pulling out the lock tumbler. A cord is attached to the lock tumbler upon pulling the entire mechanism. Pull the cord, until your door turns into a manual mode.
  • Manually, lift up the door straight up and ensure that it stays open before you park your car in.
  • When you are inside, close the door completely and lock it.

 

How To Reconnect Your Garage Door Opener After A Power Outage

There are easy steps to reconnecting your garage door after a power outage. Follow the steps below.

  1. Once the power is restored, close the garage door completely. There should be no gaps seen between the floor and the door itself.
  2. Then, firmly press the garage door opener button. If your door has two separate buttons, one that opens the door and the other that closes it. Press the one that would close the door.
  3. Let the opener reconnect on its own and complete the process without interference. The chain should move the trolley into its proper position until it connects with the arm on the garage door.
  4. Your garage should now operate appropriately with just a click of the button. To ensure that everything is running smoothly, allow your door to operate at least twice.
  5. If your garage has no automatic trolley connected to the garage door arms, you can reconnect the opener manually. Simply pull on the emergency release handle toward the door and manually connect the garage door arm to the trolley of the door opener. Make sure to test the door using the remote.

Contact Overhead Door For Garage Door Repairs and Maintenance

In times of unexpected events, like a power outage, and you are faced with the inconvenience of operating your garage door, it would be a good idea to know how to manually open your garage door. However, if your garage door opener is still not reconnected after doing the steps above, you can seek help from our professionals.

Overhead Door of the Inland Empire is committed to providing excellent work and first-rate services. We have a team of skilled professionals ready to assist you in any garage door-related problems. We also offer a 24-hour emergency service. Call us to schedule your garage door repair today.

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Choosing The Right Garage Door Opener For Your Home

Choosing The Right Garage Door Opener For Your Home

Garage door openers do not only provide convenience for easy access but they also offer improved security for your home. Today’s garage door openers are equipped with many smart features that can heighten their security features. But, with many of them available in the market, you might be confused about how to choose the right garage door opener for your home. So, here are some factors to consider when buying a garage door opener.

Things To Consider When Choosing The Right Garage Door Opener

 

Drive Options

The main thing to consider when choosing a garage door opener is the drive type. A drive type refers to the mechanisms that open and close the door. Here are 4 types of garage door openers.

1. Chain-drive openers

They are the most popular, durable, and affordable openers in the market. These drives are most ideal for heavily insulated garage doors, one-piece door,s or oversized ones. However, chain drives are often loud and clunky because of vibration and metal-to-metal contact, making it a problem when your garage is located under a room.

2. Screw-drive openers

They use a long threaded metal rod that looks like a screw to open and close the garage door. This type of opener has a few moving parts making it more reliable, faster, and quieter than a chain drive. But, a screw drive opener requires more maintenance. Usually, monthly lubrication of the screws is necessary to prevent the plastic teeth that catch the threading to corrode. This is also not suitable for larger, heavier doors.

3. Belt-drive openers

A rubber-like belt is used to operate the garage door, making it quiet in operation. Belt-drive openers can be used for light and even heavy materials and require less maintenance. However, this type of garage door opener is often more expensive than the others.

4. Direct-drive openers

Though this opener comes in an overhead rail with a chain, its motor moves along the track, not on the chain. Because of that, this type of opener is extremely quiet in operation and often comes with a lifetime warranty. Though, they are a bit costly.

5. Jack-shaft openers

These openers are mounted on the wall, often next to the garage door and use a motor that drives pulleys and the torsion bar to raise and lower the door. Because of its computerized system, jackshaft openers are the most expensive models of a garage door opener.

Horsepower Options

In addition to the type of opener, a horsepower output should also be considered. This is to determine the weight of a garage door an opener can lift. There are three levels of horsepower available for garage doors.

  • ½ HP models – this is the standard and most popular motor speed for most garage doors because it is cost-effective. This type of motor may be powerful enough to lift most doors, but it can easily wear out when paired with a one-piece, wooden door, or well-insulated door.
  • ¾ HP models – These motors are more capable of lifting heavier doors, such as an extra-insulated door or one-piece, wooden door. They are more durable and long-lasting, but you may have to spend more on extra power.
  • 1 HP models – These motors can provide the highest amount of power and efficiency. They are perfect for extremely heavy garage doors, like industrial doors and oversized ones. But, they may not be worth the added expense, if you are using a standard garage door.

Some Tips For Choosing A Garage Door Opener

  • Seek referrals from your family and friends who recently purchased an opener. They can give you feedback about the durability and quality of a garage door opener.
  • Check reviews online from customers. They can give you ideas about the pros and cons of a certain door opener.
  • If you already have some prospect models, comparing their features can help you curb your choices.
  • Lastly, make sure to focus on quality. They might be pricier but they can be a great investment.

Seek Professional Help

Since your garage door is a vital shield of your home, keeping it in good condition should be your number one priority, and that includes having a garage door opener that is perfect for your door. If you are still confused with which one is best for you or unsure how to proceed with the installation, you can always seek help from Inland Overhead Door. Our professionals are well-equipped and knowledgeable in choosing and installing the right opener for your home. To learn more about our services, contact us today.

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Troubleshooting Tips On A Garage Door That Won’t Open

Troubleshooting tips on a garage door that won't open

Garage doors have already become the main entryway for many homeowners. But when the door is stuck in a close position, it can be pretty frustrating. You may be tempted to crash it through. But that doesn’t make sense at all. Take a few steps to troubleshoot some safety features of the door that is preventing it to open. It can be the remote control, wires, and electric photo eyes. Read on to learn some tips to troubleshoot a garage door that won’t open. 

 

How To Troubleshoot A Garage Door That Won’t Open

Check if The Opener is Properly Plugged In

First and foremost, make sure that the opener is plugged in. One of the most common reasons why a garage door won’t open is because the electrical cord might be loose or not plugged in properly. 

Check if The Garage Is In “Vacation” or “Lock”  Mode

“Vacation” mode is designed to keep your home safe while you are away or on a vacation. This mode prevents the remote control from opening your garage door. When the door is not responding, it might have set accidentally to “vacation” or lock mode. If it is in this mode, you may open it for one time using your remote and then unlock it from the wall switch inside the garage.

 

The Remote May Not Be Working

If you suspect that your remote is not working, you can take several steps to check it. 

  • Inspect the remote battery. Walk into your garage, press the button, and observe the small blinking LED light. If it doesn’t light up, then the battery is dead. You can either use the second remote or replace the battery. 

 

  • The remote signal may be blocked by radio frequency interference. Radiofrequency interference happens when two or more signals are interfering with each other, causing a conflict. Climb a ladder and check the remote’s signal by trying it directly next to the opener’s motor. If it is properly working, then there be some lights or video game console that is blocking the signal.

 

  • Try to reset the opener’s remote. If you can open the door when using the keypad mounted on the wall, you may need to reset the remote. Make sure to read the owner’s manual because resetting the remote differs by manufacturer’s. But it is an easy fix.

 

Inspect if the Trolley Opener Is Disengaged

The trolley moves together with a chain or a belt which is called a carriage. Trolleys function to push the arm and close the door and at the same time, pulls the arm and open the door.  On the other hand, the chain or belt is used to disengage the opener from the trolley. When the opener is disengaged, it will not open or close your door. Check the trolley and reconnect it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. 

 

Check The Garage Door’s Photo Eye

 Photo eyes are the small sensors that signal the door to stop shutting when it has detected something along with its path. It is a safety feature that prevents the door from crashing on pets or small children. It has two sensors, a few inches above the floor, and one on each side of the garage door. One sensor aims a beam towards the other. If the beam is interrupted or dirty,  the door will not move either way.  Clean both electric eyes with a soft cloth or tissue, then open the door again. 

Furthermore, if cleaning the eyes did not make the door to change and open, the eyes may be misaligned. These electric eyes should be pointing at each other. Check to see if they are properly aligned. If not, bend it a little at a time and keep clicking the remote until the door opens. 

 

Look for the fine wires that are loose or discarded

There are several points to check; two points that run from the manual switch mounted on the wall and four are running from the back of the box to the locations of the photo eyes. 

To identify the wire, hold the remote, then pull the wires a few inches back from their connection points. While pressing the button on the remote, shake the wires one by one. When one wire is loose when you shake it, the door will open. Find the wire and turn off the power to your garage door. Tighten the wire using a screwdriver then turn on the power again. The door should now open and close the normal way.

Caution: Never try to wiggle or shake any wires unless your fingers are far from the connections. If these wires are loose, they may totally get loosen from the connection. Be prepared especially if you are on a ladder. 

 

How To Open A Garage Door Manually

If your garage door is not opening even after doing everything and you need to get your car outside of your garage, look for a red cord that hangs from the track. Pull it and it will release the door from the track. You can now raise the door manually. However, do not pull the cord if the door is stuck open. It might crash down. 

 

Contact Garage Door Professionals

If all these troubleshooting tips fail, contact a professional garage door repairman. Failure to open the garage door may need a professional inspection. There could be gears in your garage door that hinder its smooth operation and may need to be replaced. Or, your opener may have already reached its average lifespan and that you may need to install a new one.  

At, Inland Overhead Door, we offer garage door inspection and maintenance services. If you need your garage door opener inspected, contact us today. 

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3 Factors To Consider When Buying A Garage Door Opener

garage door opener

Choosing a garage door opener is not as simple as you might think it is. There are plenty of garage doors in the market and you might be overwhelmed with different choices.

However, choosing the perfect garage door should match your priorities and budget. Let us walk you through the factors that you have to consider when choosing a garage door opener.

But before anything else, let’s learn first about its purpose.

What Is A Garage Door Opener?

It is a motorized device used to control the opening and closing of your garage door. Some garage door openers are mounted on the garage wall. Due to the advancement in technology, they can be carried by the owner and can be used to open or close the door from a short distance.

Your garage door opener has a great impact on the safety and efficiency of the operation of your garage door.

There 3 important factors that you have to consider when buying a new garage door opener. These are;

  • Proper Weight Capacity
  • Garage Door Openers Drive Style
  • Primary features

What Weight Capacity Do You Need?

When deciding what weight capacity you need, you should consider the size of your garage door and how often it is used. Basically, single wide aluminum garage doors can work well with a ½ horsepower.  But if your garage door is considered a heavier-oversized garage door, then you need a ¾ horsepower. 

You might not need to use a one horsepower model if you can open your garage door by hand. But doing this can prevent you from straining the operation of your garage door and may allow your garage door to operate for a longer time.

What Garage Door Drive Style is Suitable for My Needs?

There are three types of a garage door opener drive style and each one of them has special attributes.

Chain Drive

This is the most common drive style in the industry. It is affordable, durable and has a cheaper installation fee. Chain drives are perfect for standard aluminum garage doors and they can also work well with heavy and older garage doors.

Though chain drives are a simple and cost-effective type, they are noisy. You might not want this type of opener if you have your room next to or on top of your garage.

Chain driven garage door opener might require a periodic maintenance.

Belt-drive

Because it is built with a reinforced belt that is used for lifting, belt-drive openers are quieter than a chain drive. They are ideal when there is a room attached to your garage.

This kind of openers is a little bit pricey because of its free-disturbance feature. They might require periodic maintenance.

Screw Drive 

If you are someone who is looking for a garage door opener that is powerful, reliable, durable and fast, a screw-driven garage door opener is perfect for you. This type of opener can operate faster and smoother than a chain-driven and belt-driven openers.  It is the best option for a heavier and wider garage door.

Screw-driven garage door openers are less likely to break, thus it requires maintenance and periodical lubrication on screw heads. 

Important Features That You Have to Consider

Each type of garage door opener has special features that include safety and security. Below are the primary features you have to consider when choosing a garage door opener.

  • Safety – This is the most important feature you have to consider. According to the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS), a total of 13, 325 people had injuries caused by garage doors in 2017. That simply elaborates on the importance of choosing a trusted manufacturer.
  • Automatic Reversing System – It is in the standard system that all garage doors should reverse automatically when it encounters something. Photoelectric sensors are placed at the base of your garage door and will not allow your garage door to close when it is interrupted.
  • Rolling Code Security Technology – This feature allows you to have a more secure garage door opener. Every time you use your remote, you can randomly choose a new code. 
  • Manual Release – This is another feature to consider. Manual release feature allows you to open the door manually and can be very helpful when you have a power loss.
  • Battery Backups – battery backups is another wonderful feature that can also help you access your garage when there is a power outage. If a power outage is a usual problem in your area, then you might consider having another battery backup.  
  • Security Lights – Security light can light up the entire garage door, making it comfortable for you to move around your garage.

 

After reading this article, you now have probably come up with the garage door opener that you need. But if you still need more tips and guidelines on choosing the perfect garage door openers, you may contact us today. We will help you choose the garage door openers that suits you best.  

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