Neighborhood Garage Door Service of Denver, CO is a full-service resource for all your garage door needs. Whether you need inspections, repairs, replacements, or installations, we have you covered. One area where we can help you is picking the right garage door opener model for your home. There are three basic components that you need to consider when making this decision. Let’s take a look at each of them.
Motor power supply
Many people don’t think about what type of power supply they need for their garage door opener motor. You have two options and each has different characteristics.
- AC or alternating current driven motors has variable speeds during operation. It begins slowly, gets up to speed, and then slows down as it closes. AC motors cannot utilize a backup power supply.
- DC or direct current motors have a constant speed throughout an open/close cycle. With DC, you have the option of installing a backup battery for use when your power is out.
Each option has different pulling power, which we’ll discuss next.
Motor size
Motor power is generally measured in units called horsepower. You’re probably familiar with this term in regard to car motors. It is equal to 550 foot-pounds per second. DC motors are available in ⅓, ½, or ¾ horsepower. AC garage door opener models are available only in ½ and ¾, though they are usually measured in Newtons (800 & 900, respectively) and not horsepower.
The size motor you need is determined by the size and weight of the door. It is also influenced by the calibration of your torsion spring. A typical garage door has a maximum deadweight of around 15 pounds. A ½ horsepower motor should be able to handle this just fine. If, however, you have a double wide door or taller than average door, you may need the ¾ horsepower motor.
Drive system
You have three basic options for your drive system.
- Chain driven – these are the most common and economical drive systems. They are reliable, but they are the noisiest of the three options.
- Belt driven – these have the same basic lifting apparatus as the chain drives, but with a belt in place of the chain. The belts are a steel reinforced rubber, much like car tires. They are much quieter.
- Jackshaft – this system is the most expensive option. However, they are the best solution if you have a particularly high garage ceiling or tall door. This system is only compatible with garage doors that have torsion springs.
If you aren’t sure which garage door opener model is the right one for you, don’t be afraid to call for assistance. Neighborhood Garage Door Service of Denver, Colorado is glad to help you with all your questions. With over 20 years of experience, we know how to match you up with what you need. Our professionally trained technicians will be glad to inspect your overhead door and walk you through the options. Don’t wait any longer, call us today!
