When should you update your automatic garage door opener? You may think the best time is when your current garage door breaks or stops working, but Automatic Door Company knows there are other reasons you need to install a new door. Their experts have provided New Haven and Fairfield Counties with quality garage door repairs, installations, and replacements since 1980. The professionals at Automatic Door Company want to share tips on how to know when your garage door opener needs an update.

How can you tell when your automatic garage door opener needs an update? Automatic Door Company can tell you the signs:

• Safety: Automatic garage doors have been required since 1993 to be set up with a safety reverse mechanism. This system consists of two sensors located across from each other on either side of the door and approximately six inches above the floor. These sensors create a beam when your garage door starts to close. If the beam is broken, such as by a pet or a small child running through, then the garage door automatically stops closing and reverses direction into the open position.
• Noise: It’s time for an update if the entire neighborhood knows when you’re opening and closing your garage door from the noise. Older models use a chain drive unit — similar to the chain on a bicycle — to make your door function. Current models will have a belt or screw drive, which will make less noise when in use. Even if you install an update with a chain drive, it will likely be quieter than the older versions.

• New Technology: It’s time for an update if you need manual power to open and close your garage door. Newer models can be activated with a keypad located outside the door. You can also install a version that can be remotely controlled and monitored by your smartphone or from any device that has an internet connection. This is a useful feature when someone, such as your neighbor or a contractor, needs access to your garage but you’re not home.
• Security: If you use a remote to open your garage door, it likely works by transmitting a single radio code to activate the door. It’s easy for a thief to use a device that will find that code and open your automatic door. Since many garages are attached to houses, this means the thief will have easy access to your home and your belongings. Newer remotes use a rolling code feature that changes the code every time it’s used to provide better security for you and your home.

Replacing your automatic garage door with an update means better safety, security, and convenience for your and your family. Call Automatic Door Company at (203) 795-3577 to find out how they can help you find the right garage door opener for you. Visit their website to learn more about their provided services and their brand name garage door products.