Garage Door Opener Installation Basics

Jul 28
08:20

2010

Anna Woodward

Anna Woodward

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While the installation process pertaining to a garage door opener isn’t one to be performed by the novice handyman, it’s definitely a task which can be accomplished by the experienced homeowner in a 24 hour period. Anyone who is comfortable working with ladders, drills, and basic electrical wiring can install an opener with ease. In this article, we will outline the steps necessary to performing a successful installation.

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Anyone who is comfortable working with ladders,Garage Door Opener Installation Basics  Articles drills, and basic electrical wiring can install an opener with ease. In this article, we will outline the steps necessary to performing a successful installation.

Step 1 - Once you've found your opener, take a minute to inspect your garage area. Make sure you will be able to fasten all necessary parts where they should be located, and clear any debris in the way.

Step 2 - Open up the box that the opener came in and remove all parts. Make sure your opener came with all necessary parts and instructions.

Step 3 - Put together your rail and be sure to insert the end into your power unit.

Step 4 - The traveler unit should be placed onto the rail. Once this is accomplished the idler pulley must be fixed, located on the opposite side.

Step 5 - Attach the traveler to the chain, and wrap it around the power unit drive wheels. Then loops the chain back around the idler pulley, to the traveler, creating a loop. Use a retaining clip to attach the ends together.

Step 6 - Find the center of the ceiling area and decide whether a mounting board will be necessary for the for the header bracket. Header brackets require solid support. If you have any doubts, you may want to go this route.

Step 7 - The header must be mounted at the height specified by the manufacturer, after which the idler assembly can be attached.

Step 8 - The power unit will then need to be lifted above the rails and held in place. Fasten the unit to the joists on the ceiling.

Step 9 - Once the unit is secured, manually lift the door to make certain the unit is not obstructing the movement of the door. If you notice interference, raise the power unit.

Step 10 - Attach linkage to the traveler.

Step 11 - Attach and center the door bracket to the location outlined by the instruction manual.

Step 12 - Mount your control panel to a wall inside the garage and run the wires to the power unit. Secure the wires to the wall by staples, making certain not to pierce them.

Step 13 - Run the power cord from the power unit to a power supply.

Step 14 - If your opener has sensors, install them as per the instruction manual.

Step 15 - Test your door! If everything runs smoothly, then congratulations are in order!