A common question we receive from homeowners is, “How long do garage door openers last?” Generally speaking, they remain operational for 10 to 15 years, which is contingent upon things like the regularity of maintenance and use. Below we explore these factors in greater detail, along with tips for extending the life of a garage door opener. Additionally, we outline the signs of a failing garage door opener and when you may want to consult with a garage door repair professional.
Factors That Determine a Garage Door Opener’s Lifespan
As its name implies, an opener serves an important role for homeowners and can cause further issues if not well-maintained. For example, faulty internal wires can short and result in a fire.
To help you avoid future headaches, it is essential to focus on these key areas to ensure your garage door opener functions properly:
- Its make and any known issues associated with the brand
- When it was installed
- How frequently it has been serviced
- Climate (interior and exterior)
- Frequency of use by the homeowner
- Has it been subjected to damage, such as being hit by an object?
Tips for Extending Your Residential Garage Door’s Lifespan
Homeowners can take the following actions in order to extend their opener’s lifespan:
- Conduct a visual inspection of the springs, rollers, cables, track, and pulleys
- Lubricate moving parts to ensure smooth operation
- Ensure the door is properly balanced
- Do a reversal test
- Keep the garage’s interior free of objects that might damage the opener
- Try to maintain a cool, dry interior
Signs of a Failing Garage Door Opener
Like other garage door problems, there are often signs of a part requiring attention that you can detect before it fails completely. These are:
- A slow-moving or detached opener
- Unusual noises coming from the garage door opener
- Erratic opening or reversal patterns
- A garage door opener visibly rattles
When to Consult with a Garage Door Professional
Sometimes even with proactive, regular maintenance residential garage door openers will need to be replaced. If you believe your existing set-up could use a tune-up or complete upgrade, consult with an experienced garage door professional. They will be able to help you identify the right option that works with your door, budget, and other considerations.
Ready to get started? Get in touch with our team at one of our eight locations across the Mid-Atlantic region.
