Do you carry remotes? Absolutely, we carry remotes and most other replacement parts for gate and garage door opener operators for Stanley, Genie, Liftmaster, Sears Craftsman, Chamberlain, Multicode, Manaras, and Linear (for TenPro, ProLift, Clopay, MasterMechanic, and others not listed, please call us).
How do I determine which remote do I need? We need to know the brand and model of the remote you need to replace. In some instances, we will need the frequency and the number of dip switches, if any. All that information should be on your remote, if it isn't, locate your receiver (small box with a wire protruding out located on or near your garage door operator), you should be able to access the information. If all else fails, call us!
How do I code my remote? It's very simple, all our products come with a set of instructions. The coding varies on the type of system you are using and is clearly explained on the instructions. On the reverse side of the remote, where the battery is concealed, there are a series of dip switches that you toggle up and down to match the setting of your current remote control: Stanley: 10 switches, Genie AT85: 9 switches, GT90/GPT90-1: 12 switches, Multicode/ Multi Elmac : 10 switches, Linear: 8 switches, Chamberlain / Liftmaster: 61LM: 9 switches,for Chamberlain / Liftmaster remote models 81LM, 91LM or 971LM, first locate the smart button on the rear side of the operator hanging from the ceiling in your garage. The smart button is either round (yellow, grey, white, red, or green) or square (red) with a green LED light adjacent. Take your remote and press the button and at the same time press the smart button. The receiver has now learned the code from the remote control. Press the smart button for any longer than 12 seconds (or until the LED light flashes and the receiver's memory has been erased).
My garage door opener is very old, can you still replace it with a new remote? A lot of older models are replaceable, however, depending on the type of system, you may not be able to replace your remote: if your remote does not contain dip switches (and is at least 15 years old), you will need a new receiver. A receiver is much less expensive than replacing the entire operator and is easily installed (most residential receivers have 3 connections), clear and easy instructions and schematics are included. However we recommend replacing the operator in most cases.
Is there a universal remote that can operate any garage or gate opener? There is no such thing as a remote that can operate any garage or gate opener. There are however, remotes that can operate on different frequencies, functioning with different brands such as the Skylink Universal remote.
My door only opens a few inches then stops and is heavy when trying to lift it manually. What could be the problem? You probably have a broken spring (the large coil located on the top of the door on a bar) and this should be replaced. Another symptom of a broken spring is if you hear a very large bang and again, the door only opens a few inches.
My garage door opener is smoking and won't open. What's wrong with it? You most likely have a burned drive belt, although there is the possibility of having a burned circuit board or capacitor. All are easily replaced.
I hear a hum coming from the garage door opener and it won't open. What is the problem? A humming operator is usually the outcome of a burned out capacitor.
What's the average lifespan of a garage door opener? Average lifespans of 8 - 10 years can be expected, although there are operators out there which last as little as 5 years yet as long as 25 years (or more!). If your operator is getting old, consider replacing it with an up-to-date machine with all the latest safety features.
I need certain parts for my garage/gate operator, can I purchase them from you? Absolutely (as long as it is still available) and you will save a lot in the process! You will need to contact us for that, for special ordering and prices.
Are batteries and clips included? Yes, batteries and clips are included, in some cases, key chains and velcro attachments.
Residential Door Buying Tips
Are polyurethane and white Styrofoam one and the same? Not quite. Polyurethane features superior thermal insulation. In addition, since polyurethane adheres better to door surfaces, it provides twice as much resistance to flexing as polystyrene (Styrofoam) in a comparable door.
What other measures should I take to ensure weathertightness? An important item in weatherproofing a garage door is the exterior weatherstripping found around the frame. For this purpose, a double-lip weatherstrip is the most efficient. In order to provide proper insulation, a garage door should be equipped with weatherstripping featuring a thermal break at each panel intersection. Examine the weatherstripping. Is there any at the top of the door?
What is the required clearance above the door? In order to install torsion-spring hardware, we recommend a clearance of 12". On the other hand, if there is only 4" to 11" available, it is best to use a dual-track system, designed for low headroom.
How much horsepower does the motor need? A motor of 1/3 HP is enough for doors in the 2440 mm to 3660 mm range. Use a 1/2 HP motor for doors measuring over 3660 mm. Keep in mind that an electric garage door opener is only meant to work as a substitute for human strength. Therefore, it must be well-balanced at all times in order to maintain its dead weight at 3 to 4 kilograms.
Torsion (1) Extension (2) Headroom Operation type Headroom Operation type 0" to 4" Not possible (lower headboard of door) 0" to 4" Not possible (lower headboard of door) 4" to 12" Low Headroom (double track system) 4" to 8 1/2" Low Headroom (double track system) 12" and higher Standard (12" radius) (3) 8 1/2" and higher Standard (10" radius) (1) Canadian Doormaster Electric Ltd. recommends the use of torsion springs for improved door operation and increased safety. (2) Canadian Doormaster Electric Ltd. recommends the use of safety cables with extension springs for security. (3) You can order a 15 inch radius with torsion springs operation.
Industrial and Commercial Door Buying Tips
Has the time come to change your garage doors? Are you planning to make an addition to your existing facilities? Here are the answers to some questions you may have about commercial garage doors.
Are polyurethane and expanded polystyrene, Styrofoam, one and the same? Not quite. Polyurethane features superior thermal insulation. In addition, since polyurethane adheres better to door surfaces, it provides twice as much resistance to flexing as polystyrene (Styrofoam) in a comparable door.
Which hardware is more appropriate for my garage door? The 2" or 3"? The answer to this question lies in the size of the door and the extent to which it is used. If the door measures under 14 square metres and operates at a normal rate, that is to say, 8 cycles per hour at most, the 50-mm tracks and rollers are perfectly suitable. For all other applications, we recommend the 75-mm hardware. Make sure tracks are welded, not riveted.
Is there anything else I should know about the hardware? Yes, indeed. If the door measures over 14 square metres, we suggest using vertical tracks with a continuous angle. If door width exceeds 4270 mm, the use of double hinges is recommended.
How do I figure out the number of cycles for torsion springs? The required number of cycles is calculated by determining the average number of operating cycles per day, multiplying this figure by 250 days, and then multiplying the result by 10 years (the useful life of a garage door). The choice of the torsion spring is made according to the number of cycles thus obtained. You can choose from 25,000, 50,000, 75,000, or 100,000 cycles. It is good to note, however, that door width may limit this choice.
How do I know the door is well-balanced? You should be able to easily lift the door open with one hand, regardless of its size and the material it is made of. If you notice the door is harder to open, this means that its dead weight is heavier than in the ideal range of 4 to 7 kg because the springs are no longer counterbalancing the door properly. Call Canadian Doormaster Electric Ltd. to correct the situation.
Is it better to open and close the door manually, or electrically? In all cases, it is best to equip the door with an electric garage door operator. There are basically two categories of such operators: trolley (central) and jackshaft (wall-mounted). When at all possible, install a three-phase motor with the highest voltage available. If you choose to manually open and close your gargage door, ask for a chain hoist when the height of the door exceeds 3660 mm. Get in touch with Canadian Doormaster Electric Ltd. to find out more about safety accessories.
How much does the installation of a garage door cost? Installation costs depend on the intricacy of the project, on headroom, on whether there will be an electric motor or not, as well as on other aspects particular to each project. In a word, there are many variables to consider. We recommend you call Canadian Doormaster Electric Ltd. to provide you with the names of some clients so you can find out how satisfied they were of our work.
Is there anything in particular I ought to do once the door is installed? Ask the installer to provide you with the owner's manuals for the door and for the electric operator, if applicable. Take the time to read them to find about more about your new equipment and the maintenance it requires. Make sure you keep the Canadian Doormaster Electric Ltd. phone number at hand. Canadian Doormaster Electric Ltd. stickers all their doors, new or seviced so you can readily phone them. If this has not been done call Canadian Doormaster Electric Ltd.
Maintenance Tips for Residential doors...
The finish... Wash the outside of the door with a mild detergent, such as dish detergent, and a car brush. Thoroughly rinse the surface with a sponge and bucket of water. DO NOT USE A HOSE. Avoid abrasive cleaners and strong detergents. Waxing your garage door once a year with car wax will protect its lustre and revive the shine it may have lost due to acid rain and UV rays. For best results, never apply wax in direct sunlight. If the door is facing south or southwest, avoid dark colours since they absorb more heat. Whether the garage door is made of steel, aluminium, or wood, longer southern exposure to the sun tends to damage the paint much faster. This is especially true for applied paint. Do not wash inside or any electical parts. Do not follow these instructions for wooden doors.
The weatherstripping...
found around frame and bottom edge. If it is made of rubber (quality PVC), use a multi-purpose cleaner for vinyl, such as the one used on outdoor furniture. Rinse well with a garden hose. Lubricate weatherstripping every other month, or more, according to how often the door is used. For this purpose, use a silicone-based product. Never use a petroleum-based lubricant since petroleum is known to adversely affect the elastic properties of rubber. Weatherstripping rubber must remain flexible to be an efficient barrier.
The tracks, hinges, rollers, and springs. Lubricate rollers and hinges with some garage door lubricant. Do not use any petrolium based lubricant because, aside from lubricating, it has the property of degreasing. Use garage door lubricant for the tracks, especially in their curved section. Springs require basically the same treatment. Apply garage door lubricant on them and wipe off excess lubricant with a cloth. This simple trick will help prolong their useful life. Canadian Doormaster Electric Ltd. carries a full line of lubricants and penetrating oils specifically designed for garage doors.
The electric garage door opener... Lightly lubricate the track in which the chain or the cable slides with lubricants supplied by Canadian Doormaster Electric Ltd. specifically designed for garage doors. We recommend you carefully read the owner's manual since it is entirely possible that the manufacturer mentions what kind of grease is suitable for this purpose. In addition, "soundproofing" parts made of rubber are available to help reduce the noise made by the motor.
An important precautionary measure... Deactivate your electric garage door opener every three months by unplugging it. Operate the door manually in order to determine how easy it is to open. Remember that an electric garage door opener is only meant to work as a substitute for human strength. Be careful not to put your fingers between the sections. You must therefore avoid placing any unnecessary strain on it. If the door is hard to open when operated manually, get in touch with Canadian Doormaster Electric Ltd. This sort of problem may result from a decompressed spring, a warped track, or a loose cable. A well-balanced garage door should never weigh more than 3 to 4 kilograms. If so equipped, it is a good idea to check the photo-electric protection system as well to make sure it is working properly.
In the event you would like to set the door's clearance, or how it rests on the threshold, yourself, consult your owner's manual. Most garage door openers come with two knobs for these adjustments.
Canadian Doormaster Electric Ltd. would like to offer you one last piece of advice. Unplug the electric garage door opener before leaving on a trip. Contrary to popular belief, a plane flying above your home cannot activate your garage door since electric garage door openers operate on their very own frequency. Moreover, we recommend not using any auxiliary locking device, such as a bar lock, when your garage door is equipped with an electric garage door opener. Otherwise, if you activate the motor while the door is locked with the auxiliary device, its gears will suffer heavy damage in the process.
Consider your garage door as an important part of your home. Perform the suggested maintenance on it and it will provide you with carefree convenience for many years to come. We recommend you have the door inspected by a qualified installer at least once a year. For your own safety, never attempt to adjust the springs, the lower hinges, or the hoisting cables yourself because of, among others, the inherent risk associated with the great deal of tension in the springs. Call Canadian Doormaster Electric Ltd. to handle the work for you.
Maintenance Tips for Commercial and Industrial doors...
The finish Wash the door with a mild detergent, such as dish detergent. To remove tough stains, use an all-purpose cleaner for the home. Thoroughly rinse the surface with sponge and bucket of water. DO NOT USE A HOSE. Waxing your garage door once a year with liquid car wax will protect its lustre. For best results, never apply wax in direct sunlight. Do not wash inside or any electrical parts.
The hardware Lubricate all galvanized parts, such as rollers, hinges, and tracks with special lubricant supplied by Canadian Doormaster Electric Ltd. designed for garage doors. A light oil coating on these parts will prevent surface rust from forming. Keep in mind that the rollers are meant to "roll" in the tracks, not to slide in them. This is why the use of grease in the tracks is not recommended. However, if you choose to use grease to lubricate the tracks, apply it sparingly and make sure you remove the old grease before applying the new.
As for the torsion springs, spread garage door lubricant over their surface and wipe away any excess with a cloth. The damper the area, the more often this procedure has to be done. This simple trick will help prolong the life of the torsion springs and ensure they work properly. Carefully inspect the cables to detect any signs of fraying
The "cable-spring-wall anchorage" assembly is under high tension. For your own safety, never attempt to adjust it yourself. Call on the services of Canadian Doormaster Electric Ltd. for any required adjustment. Check the counterbalancing of the door every three months to make sure the springs are working properly. Open and close the door manually. If the garage door is equipped with a motor, deactivate the mechanism to operate the door manually. A well-balanced door weighs only 4 to 7 kilograms. If the door seems heavier than that to you, it could be due to a decompressed spring, a loose cable, a broken roller, or a warped track.
Manual operation of the doorwith a chain hoist. Make sure you always open the door smoothly and that you are especially careful about the way you close it. For doors measuring 3660 mm X 3660 mm and more, it is absolutely normal that the door seems heavy, especially once it is fully open in a horizontal position. Do not activate the chain hoist too roughly since this will probably make the lifting cables dislodge from the drums. Make sure the chain is securely fastened to its hook when the door is open with a rope or a chain. Refer to the procedure found at item "A". Above all, be especially careful when closing the door not to release it too quickly so as to prevent it from knocking the floor too hard. Always control the closing of the door until it reaches the floor.
Electric operation of the door Refer to your owner's manual. A garage door operator requires very little maintenance. On the other hand, its motor's safety system, whether pneumatic, mechanical, or photoelectric, requires a monthly inspection to make sure it is working properly. Ask your Canadian Doormaster Electric Ltd. installer to explain to you how this is done.
Always make sure the door's path is free from impediments, such as a ladder, pieces of wood, or anything else. Otherwise, you risk having the door hit the obstacle and dislodge the lifting cables from their drums. Never make the door open and close in rapid succession.Make sure you allow a 2- to 3-second delay between each operation to give a chance to the balancing assembly of cables-drums-springs to come to a full stop. Otherwise, cables may dislodge from their drums. In the event this situation arises, do not attempt to correct the problem yourself. Get in touch with Canadian Doormaster Electric Ltd. and WE will advise you on what to do. In addition, never tamper with the motor's limit switch. Let Canadian Doormaster Electric Ltd. do it for you. We have the expertise to set it correctly.
The weatherstripping found around frame and bottom edge If you wish to clean weatherstripping made of PVC, use an all-purpose cleaner for the home. Thoroughly rinse with a sponge and bucket of water. Generously lubricate weatherstripping with a silicone-base product. Never use a petroleum-based lubricant, such as WD-40TM, since petroleum is known to adversely affect the elastic properties of rubber. Weatherstripping rubber must remain flexible to be an efficient barrier. Repeat the same procedure for weatherstripping found at panel intersections and at bottom edge of door. If you choose to adjust frame weatherstripping yourself, avoid squeezing it against the door. Allow about 12 mm between weatherstripping base and door. Excessive rubbing of the door will prevent weatherstripping from working properly and wear it out prematurely.
A last piece of advice Consider your garage door an important part of your building. As such, handle it with care and perform the suggested maintenance on it to ensure it will work smoothly for many years to come. Talk to Canadian Doormaster Electric Ltd. about a maintenance contract based on the frequency of use of your garage door. Get in touch with our technical staff for further details about this program.