Durability. It's difficult to say which option comes out on top in this category. On the one hand, chain-drive openers do tend to last longer than belt-drive openers, but they also require more frequent maintenance and are particularly at risk of rusting (especially if your garage door insulation isn't great).
While belt garage doors offer durability and strength, there are limitations to their abilities. Belt openers aren't really recommended for heavy doors, or two-door garages. They're also temperamental when it comes to the extreme weather, so excessive heat or cold can greatly affect the function of the opener.
Chain drive garage door openers tend to last longer, but need more frequent maintenance. Belt drive openers don't need to be lubricated regularly but the belts can wear out and crack. For most homeowners, the difference in durability is negligible, especially when they consider the other factors.
A chain drive garage door opener uses a chain to move the door open and closed. It's suitable for most garage doors. Chain drive has been around for many years and will last a long time with routine maintenance.
Screw Drive Garage Door Openers
Because it has a simple design with few moving parts, it's less likely to experience problems or break. Screw drive openers are durable, low-maintenance and reliable, and they usually operate faster than chain and belt openers.
Belt drive garage door openers: Belt drive garage door openers operate via a polyurethane, fiberglass or steel-reinforced rubber belt. They're incredibly durable and can last between 15 and 20 years.
The LiftMaster Estate Series 2500 and the Genie Pro Stealth models, both with belt drive and DC motors, scored highest in CR's overall ratings.
While LiftMaster is your go-to for more demanding, heavy-duty applications, like industrial, commercial or for that super-sized garage door, Chamberlain is designed for homeowners.
Normal lifespan
Most garage doors openers have an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years, but this isn't a hard and fast rule. In fact, many factors can influence how long your opener will last. Among other things, the age and state of the other parts of the door will play a role.
Worn-out components and poor lubrication of the hinges, rollers and track could make an opener ineffective.
Evaluate your garage door size and how often you use it. 1/2 horsepower garage door openers work well with standard aluminum doors in a residential garage. If the garage is the main entrance to your home, have a one-piece or oversized door, choose an opener with the lifting power of a 3/4- to 1 1/4-horsepower.
Some things to consider include: Life of the garage door chain – Garage door chains last a long time. However, they do need to be replaced every 10 years or so. If your garage door chain is on the older side, it may make more sense to replace the chain instead of repairing it.
Chamberlain is popular for its easy installation process. So, Chamberlain door openers can be a good choice if you are a DIY enthusiast. Genie's models may require more tools and expertise for installation, especially for belt drive systems.
Both chain drive and belt drive garage door openers have their advantages and disadvantages. Chain drive openers are more durable and affordable, but they can be quite noisy. Belt drive openers are quieter but come at a higher price point.
The truth is that although they were wildly popular, quieter, had more security features, and had more compatible accessories; they were in fact more temperamental in extreme temperatures. They also utilized a plastic coupler and many other plastic components that just didn't hold up like everyone had hoped.
For example, belt-driven operators can last as long as 15-20 years compared to the average 10-15 years for a chain-drive operator model. By performing the right kind of maintenance for your garage door opener, you can prolong its life expectancy.
The cost to replace a garage door opener can vary depending on the type of opener you choose and the cost of labor. A new basic chain-driven garage door opener can cost anywhere from $100 to $200, while a belt-driven opener can cost $200 to $350.
The Lifespan of Garage Door Openers
So, the question was this: How long do garage door openers last? We see LiftMasters last between 15 – 20 years. However, that's in excellent conditions. Anything less than excellent conditions can reduce the lifespan to 8 – 12 years.
LiftMaster: LiftMaster is a well-established brand known for its reliability and advanced technology. Manufactured by Chamberlain Group, LiftMaster openers are favored by homeowners and professionals for their endurance and performance.
A common question we receive from homeowners is, “How long do garage door openers last?” Generally speaking, they remain operational for 10 to 15 years, which is contingent upon things like the regularity of maintenance and use.
LiftMaster is one of the best brands for garage door openers if you are looking for modern technology and lasting performance with reliable security. Liftmaster has developed its specialty in manufacturing motors and operators, and it already occupies its top position in the markets of both homes and businesses.
3/4 horsepower openers are the best choice for large, heavy garage doors. They're the most powerful openers with the longest lifespan. They're also the most expensive, so if your door is smaller and doesn't need as much power to open, you may want to select a lower-horsepower option.
Ratings ranging from 1/2 horsepower to 1-1/2 horsepower are typical for residential models. If you have a sectional double-car garage door, a 1/2-horsepower motor should be sufficient, but a higher-power model will operate with less effort and less wear and tear on the motor.
However, comparing the two against each other, LiftMaster has the edge. LiftMaster offers a lifetime warranty on the motor, a five-year warranty on the parts, a one-year warranty on the battery, and a lifetime warranty on the belt.