A Complete Guide to Garage Door Motors

 

 

You likely don’t think about your garage door unless it’s not working – and the same is especially true of your garage door motor. But a little education can give you a better understanding of your how your garage door works and why, so that you are better able to identify when things are going wrong, even if the signs are subtle. Then you can get garage door repair service as quickly as possible to prevent additional damage.

 

 

Here’s a look at everything you need to know about garage door motors to make better choices for your own:

 

 

There are Two Types of Garage Door Motors

 

Your main concern is likely whether a garage door motor works or not, and how easily it works. You likely don’t care much about the mechanics. But it is worth knowing that there are two types of garage door motors:

AC: Power runs on an alternating current. AC garage door motors operate at a continuous speed while the door is opening or closing. When the motor starts, power goes to the motor immediately cause the door to jerk up or down depending whether you are opening or closing the garage door. 

 

DC: Power runs on a direct current. DC motors start slow, speed up, and then slow down as the garage door closes. These motors typically are more “kind” to your door since they help it run smoother during operation. 

Knowing which type you can have can help you identify when your motor is not working properly.

 

 

Motors Have Different Power Levels and Capacities

 

AC motors have horsepower of 1/3, ½ or ¾, depending on the model. Meanwhile, DC motors have either 500 or 700 newtons, which is about the same as a ¾hp-1hp AC motor. If your garage door seems to be struggling when it is opening or closing, it could be that there is a problem with your motor or other components, or it could be that your motor is not powerful enough for your garage door. 

Pro Tip: If your garage door is struggling to open, check your garage door springs first before attempting to open your garage door again!

 

A Garage Door Motor Can Lift and Push Heavy Loads

 

Your garage door can weigh several hundred pounds, depending on its size and material. Your garage door motor is meant to lift and push that easily, ensuring a steady raising and lowering of the door so long as all components are in good shape.

The motor is also strong enough to push down on anything that might be in the way of the door or to lift up anything that might be attached to the door. You have safety sensors in place to keep this from happening, but there is a real danger if those sensors stop working or malfunction.

 

The Motor Should Last a Long Time

 

Higher-quality garage door motors can last 15 years or more. If you have a lower-quality model, you are going to start experiencing problems much sooner than this. If you are experiencing problems with the operation of your garage door, consider the age. You may be looking at much more than maintenance or repairs if your garage door motor is reaching the end of its lifespan. If you need to consider buying a new motor, buy the best-quality motor you can afford to get greater value for your investment.

 

Garage Door Motors Feature Extras

 

All garage door motors sold now either have smart phone connectivity already built in, or it is available. The feature allows you to control your garage door through your smart phone, no matter where you are located. That provides an additional measure of security for you. If your motor is not working properly, it could be that there is an issue with one of these extra features, not the mechanics.

Knowing all that you can about your garage door motor can help you better identify when a problem is present and what to do about it. But no matter how knowledgeable you are, the one thing to always keep in mind is that you should call a garage door repair service if you have any doubts about what is happening. If you notice anything that seems off about your door, call a local garage repair service. It will always be better to be safe than sorry.

 

Same Day Garage Door Services offers garage door repair and garage door installation in Gilbert and the surrounding area. Our technicians are licensed, bonded, and insured, and we are rated five stars on Google, Yelp, Thumbtack, and the Better Business Bureau. We can get your garage door working the way it needs to, or we can help you choose a new garage door for your home. Call us in Gilbert to schedule a consultation or service.

 

 

Same Day Garage Door Services, LLC
Email: samedaygaragedoorservices@gmail.com
ROC #308754

 

Gilbert Location
1176 East Warner Road #117
Gilbert, AZ 85296
Phone: 480-573-2359

 

Tempe Location
5861 S Kyrene Rd Suite 1
Tempe, AZ 85283
Phone: 480-750-7975

 

 

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