Since a garage door opener is not something you replace every year or even every few years, it’s hard to know when this issue should be on your radar. But just like other elements of your home, it’s likely to start breaking down. Here’s how to know when it’s time for a new one.

How Long Do They Last?

A typical garage door opener will have a life span of roughly 10 to 15 years. But depending on the quality of the manufacturer, the degree of use, and the amount of maintenance, your own opener could fall below or even above that spectrum.

Generally, the factor that makes the biggest difference is maintenance. Without lubrication, rust can develop quickly. Parts like the cables or rollers can start to degrade unnoticed, causing the whole apparatus to become off-kilter. When you have a professional come by for a visual inspection, they can quickly identify any issues and fortify your unit for the future. 

How Can You Tell It’s Time for a New One?

Determine when you bought the garage door opener; that information will inform you how far along it is in its timeline. If the purchase was only a few years ago, it makes sense to invest in repairs if there’s a problem. If it was 15 or even 10 years ago, it would likely be more cost-effective to install a new unit. 

It’s helpful to know some of the warning signs besides advancing age. Continual noisiness during operation, for example, indicates the parts of your opener are straining. When you detect frequent vibration, it may be a sign your motor is getting old, and before long, it could tear the opener off its moorings. It’s also worth paying attention to the responsiveness of the door opener. Units that have a delayed response or open halfway before retreating back up are all good candidates for replacement. 

If you believe it’s time for a new garage door opener, contact Tracey Door Co in Rochester, NY. With over 30 years of experience, the 3rd generation family business will help you swiftly conduct a garage door repair or make sure the garage door installation goes smoothly. As members of the Rochester Home Builders' Association, International Door Association, and several other esteemed institutions, you can feel confident that you’re working with a trusted and elite company. To make an appointment with the staff, just call (585) 426-6060. Learn more about the company by visiting their website.