Choosing an opener can almost be like buying a car. This is because some manufactures offer so many options or extra safety and functional equipment. For example; some of the newest openers can be controlled by a smartphone app. The most common accessory is a keyless entry, this is a numbered keypad that you enter a code and can open or close door. Also allows anyone who has pass code to enter; Like children family or a maid, caretaker. Other accessories can include parking aids and monitors on your nightstand that lets you know if your garage door is open.

Other options you may want to consider is the drive chain, belt, screw or jackshaft. The most common are chain and screw drive. The screw drive opener does not work well in constant freezing weather because the screw will stick when frozen. Chain and belt drives are weather neutral. The belt drive is designed for its quiet operation. This works well if there are living quarters above the garage and you won’t be able to hear opener threw the floor of living quarters. Also belt drives have a lifetime warranty on the belt itself. The Jackshaft opener can be used with most any garage door that uses torsion springs. These openers are the most expensive of all 4 types.

When choosing a brand of opener Chamberlain Liftmaster or craftsman are all manufactured by Chamberlain and are pretty much trouble free for 10-15 years. Genie brand openers tend to have more problems sometimes within a year of purchase. There are several other brands you may come across. If you really want to research brands than consumer reports is a good place to start.