- Chain-drive openers are the oldest style, and they continue to be very popular and a good value. They can be noisy, though, and may not be a good choice if the garage is under a bedroom or adjacent to a room where quiet is appreciated. On the other hand, some people appreciate being warned (through the garage door opening) that someone is about to walk into the house.
- Belt-drive openers are identical to chain-drive openers except that they operate with a rubber belt. They are the quietest type of garage door opener, and they tend to cost a bit more than the others
- Power. A standard two-car/single garage door is best served with a 1/2-horsepower garage door opener. These are our top seller and are very reliable machines
- Battery Backup. Battery backup is not a standard feature, but it is available on some models. When your electrical power is knocked out, the backup kicks in and allows you to use the garage door opener manually. Without it, you can find yourself locked out of your own house.
- Pro vs. DIY Models. Garage door manufacturers make separate products for professional installers and do-it-yourselfers. The major difference is that the DIY models, which are what you find at home improvement stores, are easier to fit in a car as they come in pieces, but this is what also differentiates between the two Pro models tend to have a one-piece rail, which is best transported in a truck., this makes the pro unit stronger and easier to install, but you will need to go to a dealer to buy one.
- Liftmaster belt opener is warrantied for 25 Years
- Jackshaft openers, unlike the other systems, mount on the wall beside the garage door. A 24-v DC motor drives pulleys and cables that turn the torsion bar and raise the garage door. When the motor is reversed, cable tension is loosened and the door lowers. This system is reliable and quiet. In addition, it keeps the ceiling free for overhead storage and is well-suited to garages with high or low ceilings. Jackshaft openers are more expensive than most other types of openers.