When it comes time to purchase a new garage door opener, without doubt the most common question we hear is, "So, which one is the best?" The answer, however, is not quite as simple...

• There are 4 options when it comes to selecting your residential garage door opener:  
  • Chain Drive
  • Belt Drive
  • Screw Drive
  • Jackshaft 

Typically, the two foremost factors affecting the final decision are price and noise. Chain drive motors make a little more noise yet subsequently, cost a little less. Below is the breakdown.

Chain Drive

• Uses a metal chain to run the door along its track
• Most common opener
• Typically least expensive
• The noisiest

Belt Drive

• Runs on a rubber belt (a full reinforced drive belt)
• As reliable as chain drive, but virtually silent
• More expensive

Screw Drive

• Uses lifting device, which runs along a threaded steel rod
• Less maintenance due to fewer moving parts
• Work well in constant climate conditions, but do not stand up to drastic temperature change
• Older models are slower moving and noisy
• Newer models reduce much noise and operate more efficiently

Jackshaft

• ultra quiet with internal chain and sprocket
• space-saving with wall-mounted design
• control panel that displays time, temperature, and diagnostic information
• the most expensive

Below are some of the most common operator models we install across Colorado. For more information and specifications, simply click the link:

Liftmaster Premium Series 3265 1/2hp Chain Drive

Liftmaster Premium 3280 1/2hp Belt Drive

Liftmaster Elite Series 3850 3/4hp Belt Drive

Liftmaster Elite Series 3800 Jackshaft Opener

Genie ReliaG 800 1/2hp Belt or Chain Drive

Genie IntelliG 1000 3/4hp Belt or Chain Drive

Genie IntelliG 1200 3/4hp Belt or Chain Drive

Genie TriloG 1200 Direct Drive Screw

Still have more questions? Would like to talk to a live person?? Give us a call @ 719-265-9032. We are glad to help.