How to Install a Garage Door Opener in a Pre-wired House

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Things You'll Need

  • Wire strippers

  • Screwdriver

  • Stepladder

  • Wire nuts

Garage door openers are a popular addition to many homes. Because of this, many builders are pre-wiring new homes to accommodate garage door openers. This makes installing an opener easier for the homeowner. When the garage is pre-wired, you eliminate unsightly exposed low-voltage wires.

Step 1

Assemble and install the garage door opener as instructed in the installation manual. Make sure to follow all of the steps except for the installation of the wall control button and the photo-electric eyes.

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Step 2

Locate the low-voltage wire coming from the wall near the entryway to the house. Strip 1/4-inch of insulation off the wire and connect it to the opener's wall control button. Most have terminal screws that tighten around the wire. Install the wall station according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Step 3

Position the ladder at the garage door opener motor and locate the terminals on the motor for the wall control button. The wires that connect to the wall button will be protruding from the ceiling. The two wires will be connected and will have the same markings as the wires on the wall. Connect the wires to the motor according to the instructions.

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Step 4

Install the photo-electric eyes to the door track as instructed. Most pre-wired homes do not have the proper connectors. Cut the wire included with the photo-electric eyes 18 inches from the connector using the wire stripper.

Step 5

Strip 1/4-inch from the ends of the wire that you just cut. Also strip 1/4-inch from the wires protruding from the lower wall. Twist and connect the photo-electric eye wire to the wire from the wall using the plastic wire nuts. Insert the connectors into the photo-electric eyes. Tack the wire to the wall with insulated staples.

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Step 6

Climb the ladder and locate the connectors on the door opener for the photo-electric eyes. Wires for them will be protruding from the ceiling. Strip 1/4-inch off the ends and connect them to the door opener.

Step 7

Finish installing the garage door opener according to the instructions.

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