Step-by-Step: Replace Garage Door Opener

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Replace a Garage Door Opener with Liftmaster or Chamberlain & Tips from Unity Garage Door

Installing a new garage door opener such as popular brand like Liftmaster or Chamberlain can be a bit of a daunting task, especially for those who have never attempted it before. However, with the right tools and a little bit of patience, it can be a relatively straightforward process. In this article, we will discuss how to replace a garage door opener, including the steps involved and the tools needed.

Step 1: Disconnect the Old Opener

The first step in replacing a garage door opener is to disconnect the old one. This means taking the electric plug out of the outlet and taking down the old opener and all its components. This should be done when the garage door is closed.

Next, you will need to disconnect the wires from the safety sensors and the wall button. You should also disengage the J-bar from the trolley and the door. The wall button should be taken off the wall, and the wires should be disconnected from it. Remove the safety sensors from both sides of the door, along with any wiring that connects them to the old garage door opener. If there is a keypad, remove it as well.

Step 2: Install the New Opener

After the old opener has been disconnected and removed, it’s time to install new garage door opener. Start by assembling the new garage door track and connecting it to the opener’s head. Next, run the belt or chain through the track and add the pulley that comes with the unit. Put the belt or chain in place and lock it into the trolley with the connectors that come in the opener’s installation kit. Tighten the belt or chain, but not too tight, as this can damage the sprocket in the opener’s head.

Remove the opener bracket from above the door and replace it with a new one. Take down the J-bar bracket from the top section of the door and replace it with a new one. Put the heavy-duty strap on the new garage door opener track next to the head of the unit and lift it up to the ceiling anchor. Connect the other side of the track to the bracket above the door using a pin. Connect the motor head to the ceiling anchor using bolts.

Step 3: Reconnect the Components

Once the new opener has been installed, it’s time to reconnect all the components. Put the new safety sensors on each side of the garage door and run the new wiring all the way from the sensors to the new opener. Install the new wall button and wire it, then put it in place on the wall. Connect the wall button wire and the sensor wires to the opener.

Lift the garage door to the open position and put on the J-bar. Install or replace the keypad, if necessary. If you’re having J-Bar issues contact Unity garage Door for garage door repair. 

Step 4: Test and Adjust

Connect the new opener to the electric outlet, and configure the new opener limits. Adjust how much it will go up and how much it will go down. The new openers have a computer inside that calculates how much force it needs to push or pull the door. Test the wall button and remotes to ensure they work correctly. Help the client program keypad.

Step 5: Disassemble the Old Opener

Finally, disassemble the old opener and take it with you for disposal.

Conclusion

Replacing a garage door opener in Fort Lauderdale can be a bit of a hassle, but with the right tools and a little bit of patience, it can be done relatively easily. Disconnecting the old opener and installing the new one are the most critical steps, but reconnecting all the components and testing and adjusting the new opener are also important. If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, it’s best to hire a professional to install your new garage door opener for you.

Why Hire Unity Garage Doors?

Garage door opener is an integral part of the garage motorized door system. If not functioning properly, it can cause all sorts of problems with the door including noisy garage door. That’s why it’s important to have the opener inspected and set limits on a regular basis. Unity Garage Doors is here to assist you with all your garage door needs, including opener repair! 

At Unity Garage Door, we specialize in garage door lifts and have completed numerous projects in the Fort Lauderdale area such as .

Call Unity Garage Door at (954) 526-6641 if you consider to inspect or replace your garage door opener or to perform a garage door repair.