- Discover the importance of garage door openers
- Learn what to look for when you need to repair openers
- Explore options for repairing or replacing garage door openers
Your garage door opener is on the fritz. If you don't act fast, it could throw a wrench into every plan that requires you to take the car — AKA 90% of your plans. Chances are, you're more than a little stressed about it. The need to get going, and fast, might have you wondering, "how hard is it to replace a garage door opener myself?"
Before you go diving into the nearby toolbox, consider getting professional expertise to solve the problem for you. That's why we've compiled this guide on what to do, what to ask, and what factors to consider when making your repair and replacement decisions.
Finding the Right Company for Repairs
We recommend doing some research before hiring a company to replace a garage door opener. Some things to look for include:
- Positive reviews: Most garage door companies have profiles on Google, Angi, Home Advisor, and Yelp. Look for companies with plenty of recent positive reviews.
- Location: Many customers prefer to support local businesses when possible. A local business understands your needs as a homeowner because they share those same needs.
The quality of a company's reviews, along with their business profile, is the most important information you can find online.
Questions To Ask A Garage Door Repair Company
It's in your best interest to call a few garage door service companies before making your decision. That way, you can compare specifics like scheduling, prices, and warranties. Here are some questions we recommend asking beyond the initial "how hard is it to replace a garage door opener?" question
- Do you offer free estimates to assess my garage door repair? If the repair cost or recommended options aren't to your liking, you don't want to be obligated to pay a service fee that can range from $65 to $95.
- Do you stock parts for my opener brand? If you know your garage door opener brand, check if the service provider stocks relevant parts on their service trucks.
- Which opener brands do you sell? If you're in the market for a new opener, find out which brands they supply, including their best sellers.
- Are you offering any specials? Ask if they have any current specials for a chain drive or belt drive opener or the particular model you're interested in. Ask if programming an opener is included in their installation fee.
- What type of warranties do you offer? Confirm the service provider offers an unconditional workmanship warranty of at least 90 days.
Preparing basic questions like these will allow you to take control of the conversation. Ideally, you'll find a company that ticks these boxes and is available on your emergency timeline. Once you've made your decision, go ahead and schedule an appointment.
Better to Repair or Replace Garage Opener?
When you first discovered your garage door opener broke, you may have been hoping for a quick fix. That may be the case, but it's worth talking to companies about whether a complete replacement makes the most financial sense. During this discussion, we recommend you get answers to all of the following:
- Is repair possible? If not, why not? If your technician only suggests replacement, ask for an explanation.
- Will we need to order replacement parts? If the company needs to order repair parts, you'll be stuck with a broken opener for a few extra days.
- What brands and models of openers are available on your service truck? If you decide to replace your garage opener, you'll want to consider installing a professional-grade model versus a DIY model found in local retail stores. Generally, professional brands open doors faster, have more HP, are more durable, and have better warranties.
- What features do new opener models offer? Learning about the features of a new model may tip the scales toward replacement.
- Do you offer free programming of home devices to a new opener? It's best to clarify upfront that this service is part of the installation fee.
- Do you charge separately for spring testing? Professional garage door opener installers will test your springs to ensure they're properly sized for strength to work in equilibrium with your new garage door opener.
- How long is your workmanship warranty? Never settle for anything less than a 90-day warranty, which is the industry standard. At Balanced Garage Doors, we'll service openers that we install for an entire year at no charge.
Once you've reached a decision, your technician should be able to make the repair or replacement either the same day or once new parts have arrived. Don't be afraid to keep asking questions along the way — a functional garage door impacts the value of your home, so it never hurts to be more informed.
Ready to Replace a Garage Opener? Call us
Your garage door opener is an important investment in your home and daily life. We encourage you to consider your options and their implications carefully. If you're an Atlanta or North Georgia resident still reeling from the discovery that your garage door opener broke, don't panic. Call Balanced Garage Doors at 770-880-0376. We understand the stress of a broken garage door opener, and we'll do everything possible to get you back to your busy schedule ASAP.
