How to Set Up a Garage Door Opener

There are a variety of garage door openers on the market each using different mechanisms to raise and lower your garage door. The following instructions offer general steps most people will follow while installing a chain or belt style garage door opener.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Check your existing garage door for opener readiness and safety. Begin by checking the garage springs. They should support the weight of the door and open and close easily by hand. Also, make sure the door is well lubricated and that all hanging cords have been removed.
2. Construct the opener. Begin by putting together the rail (or tube) that guides the trolley (or traveler) along the belt or chain. Then attach the trolley onto the rail according to the manufacturer's specifications. Finally, attach the rail to the power unit (opener motor) on one end of the rail and idler unit to the opposite end.
3. Mount the idler bracket on the wall directly centered above the garage door and then attach the idler unit to the idler bracket. The power unit will remain on the floor during this step.
4. Raise the power unit so that it is above the garage door, and then open the door to its maximum position. Next, adjust the power unit to its required height. A step ladder and scrap pieces of board make an excellent prop for fine tuning the height of the power unit. Finally, attach the power unit to the ceiling using the provided brackets.
5. Close the garage door and slide the trolley toward the idler unit. Attach the door bracket near the top of the garage door. Next, attach the straight bar to the trolley and the curved bar to the door bracket. Finally, attach the curved bar to the straight bar.
6. Install the controls inside and wireless keypad outside (if provided).
   Install the electric eye units toward the bottom of the door.

Tips & Warnings

• Always disconnect electrical power (at the breaker) when installing any of the electrical components.
• Don't begin if there is a problem with the door springs. Consult a certified professional to make adjustments or repair the problem.
• Don't forget to install electric eye units. It is now required by federal law that electric eye units be installed with all garage door openers.

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