Stay Safe With An Operational Garage Door Opener
A smoothly operating garage door opener keeps your daily routine in check, providing both convenience and security for your home. But when that trusty device starts to show signs of wear — whether it’s sluggish performance, odd noises or simply failing to open or close — it’s time to face the inevitable question. Do you need a garage door opener repair or replacement?
It can be tempting to opt for a quick fix, but a new opener can occasionally be the more reliable, long-term solution and offer great new “smart” garage door features that allow you to monitor and control your garage door opener from your phone. Our Hollywood-Crawford Door Co. team is here to break down the factors you need to consider.
Assessing Its Age: How Long Does A Garage Door Opener Last?
The age of your garage door opener plays a big role in whether you should repair or replace it. These devices typically last 10 to 15 years. However, certain factors can influence their lifespan:
- Frequency of use — The more you use your garage door opener, the more wear it places on components like the motor, gears and drive system. Heavy use can significantly shorten its lifespan.
- Type of opener — Some garage doors have an enclosed gear housing that helps prolong the life of the gear. Garage door openers with DC motors that have a soft start and soft close help with smooth operation and less stress on the garage door system compared to garage door openers with AC motors.
- Maintenance habits — Regular maintenance on the garage door and garage door opener, such as lubricating the moving parts and making sure the garage door is operating smoothly and easily, can reduce the stress on the system and extend both the life of the garage door opener and the garage door. Ignoring maintenance can lead to an early replacement of both the garage door opener and the garage door.
If your garage door opener shows evidence of aging — like slow response times, unusual noises or inconsistent performance — and it’s approaching that 10 to 15-year mark, it may be time to consider replacing it. Our team can help you determine the right solution for your garage door and ensure it’s taken care of properly!
Situations Where You Can Repair A Garage Door Opener
Sometimes, a simple repair is all it takes to get your garage door running smoothly again. If the opener is still relatively new and the issue is minor, repairing it can be a cost-effective solution. Here are a few common problems that can often be fixed:
- Malfunctioning remote or wall switch — If your opener isn’t responding to your remote or wall switch, the issue could be as simple as faulty wiring or a dead battery.
- Worn belts or chains — Over time, belts or chains can stretch or wear out, but replacing these components can serve as a corrective solution.
- Sensor misalignment — If your door won’t close all the way or reverses unexpectedly, it might be due to misaligned safety sensors. This is a simple fix that can restore normal function.
If your opener is still within its typical lifespan and these minor issues are the only concern, a repair may be an efficient choice. However, you should get a professional’s opinion to avoid unnecessary repairs or bigger issues down the line.
When To Change A Garage Door Opener In Your Home
There comes a point when your garage door opener isn’t worth repairing, and replacing it is the smarter long-term solution. Outside of old age, here are some telltale signs you should be aware of:
- Frequent breakdowns — If your opener keeps having issues and you’ve had to repair it multiple times, it may be more cost-effective to get a replacement.
- Outdated safety features — If your garage door opener lacks modern safety features like rolling code technology, which prevents hacking, or photoelectric safety sensors, which help prevent accidents, it should be replaced immediately. An unsafe garage door could cause injury or even death.
- No added convenience — Newer openers come with handy features like smartphone connectivity, battery backup and quiet operation. If your current opener lacks these modern conveniences, a replacement could offer improved functionality and security.
If you’re constantly dealing with problems or your opener is outdated, our team can help you upgrade to a newer model. A replacement can improve your home’s security and your overall convenience. Reach out to Hollywood-Crawford Door Co. when you need expert assistance!
Call Today To Work With Our Team
Choosing between repair and replacement services isn’t always easy. If you’re unsure what to do, trust Hollywood-Crawford Door Co. to provide expert advice and services. We’re here to ensure your garage door opener is functioning at its best, keeping your home secure and your daily routine running smoothly. We also offer free estimates and free garage door safety checks.
