The typical electric garage door opener consists of a power unit that contains the electric motor. The power unit attaches to a track. A trolley connected to an arm that attaches to the top of the garage door slides back and forth on the track, thus opening and closing the garage door. The trolley is pulled along the track by a chain, belt, or screw that turns when the motor is operated. A quick-release mechanism is attached to the trolley to allow the garage door to be disconnected from the opener for manual operation during a power failure or in case of emergency. Limit switches on the power unit control the distance the garage door opens and closes once the motor receives a signal from the remote control or wall push button to operate the door.
Contrary to popular belief, the electric opener does not provide the actual lifting power to open and close a heavy garage door. Instead, most of the actual lifting power comes from the counterbalance springs attached to the door. These springs are under tension to lift the garage door via steel counterbalance cables. The electric opener only controls how far the door opens and closes, as well as the force the garage door exerts. In most cases, the garage door opener also holds the door closed in place of a lock.
The entire assembly hangs above the garage door. The power unit hangs from the ceiling and is located towards the rear of the garage. The end of the track on the opposite end of the power unit attaches to a header bracket that is attached to the header wall above the garage door. The power head is usually supported by punched angle iron.
Belt Drive
Chain Drive
Direct Drive
Garage Door Opener Options
Belt Drive
These are the quietest operators on the market so keep that in mind if your garage shares a wall with a bedroom or office and would otherwise disturb your peace. A bit more expensive but dependable with quiet operation.
Chain Drive
Reliable and less expensive than belt drives and a great option for a detached garage.
Direct Drive/Jackshift Drive
Direct drives can be mounted to the wall instead of the ceiling of your garage to free up ceiling storage space or help in installations with low head room or ceilings. DC motor that is extremely quiet.
Remote Control
Remotes are available for all models and are normally included in the pricing, however you should check before purchasing.
Remote Access
Technology that enables you to operate the garage door or turn house lights on or off from anywhere in the world – all using a smartphone or computer.
Remote Controls
Garage Door Remote iPhone App
Garage Door Openers - Manufacturer Information
Canadian Doormaster supplies, installs and services numerous types of garage door openers and operators. Click on the picture logo links below to see the manufacturers full inventory and information.
