If you are a homeowner and you’re thinking about buying some new garage door remotes, there are many questions you are probably asking yourself. Whether you need a new remote or an extra one, knowing the right one is often confusing. The team here at Neighborhood Garage Door Service of Stamford, Connecticut put together some information to help you choose the one you want and need.
Does the Brand Matter?
With all the garage door brands on the market today, it is no wonder that people don’t know which one to buy for their home. Ultimately, your remote needs to sync with your opener. When you buy and install an opener, the remote is usually programmed at the same time.
Manufacturers such as Chamberlain, Liftmaster, Sears, and others, offer remotes along with more features for you to choose from. It’s a good idea to buy your remote and opener from the same manufacturer. If you don’t know the manufacturing information on your opener, you can find it on the motor.
Types of Remotes
There are a few different types of remotes that you can choose from. Some of these choices are:
- Standard remote – these types are your 1-3 button click remotes and attach to your visor in the car.
- Universal remote – If you have a new model opener, then you have the option of programming your remote to open more than one door. As long as the remote is compatible with your opener, you are all set.
- Keyless entry – If you choose a keyless entry, it still provides high security by requiring a passcode for entry.
You have many options when it comes to choosing a remote. Most manufacturers have extra features like internet capabilities, mini keychain remotes, Z-wave technology and more. If you have trouble deciding on the remote you need, seek advice from a professional garage door company.
Programming Tips
Programming your remote is not as difficult as you might think. There are a few steps that are different depending on the brand. In older remotes, there are small devices called dip switches that allow the remote to run on a specific frequency. Think of this idea as your garage door’s own identity card.
If you want to program a new remote, you need to find the learn button which is sometimes in the opener under the light cover. Just press the button until the light blinks. Then, press your remote button and test out your door and see if it opens and closes.
When Your Remote Breaks
If your garage door isn’t working, the remote could be the reason and there are several ways to troubleshoot the problem. Try these quick steps:
- Check the batteries and replace them if needed
- Check the plastic cover on the remote and receiver – sometimes these get dirty or scratched and a simple cleaning will help.
- Reset your remote – Sometimes a simple reset will fix the problem. Remove the batteries and disconnect the receiver for at least 1 minute. Then, replace the batteries and reconnect the receiver. Your remote should work again.
If your remote is still not working after these steps, call an expert for help investigating the problem. They will either suggest a replacement remote or find out if there’s a different issue.
Don’t let buying and operating a remote overwhelm you. These are a few things that will help you understand your remote and troubleshoot problems if they happen. If you still have issues with your remote, contact Neighborhood Garage Door Service of Stamford, CT for some advice.
