Introduction:
Garage door openers provide convenience and security for homeowners, allowing easy access to your garage with just a push of a button. However, if you have an old garage door opener, it may lack some of the advanced safety features found in newer models. While replacing the entire opener might be an option, there are alternative measures you can take to enhance the safety of your existing garage door opener. In this article, we explore several ways to incorporate safety features into an old garage door opener.
1. Perform a Safety Inspection and Maintenance:
Before adding any new safety features, it is essential to ensure that your existing garage door opener is in good working condition. Perform a thorough safety inspection, checking for any worn-out or damaged parts such as cables, springs, and rollers. Lubricate the necessary components, ensuring smooth operation, and tighten any loose screws or bolts.
2. Add an Auto Reverse Mechanism:
One of the crucial safety features in modern garage door openers is the auto-reverse mechanism. If you have an older model that lacks this feature, you can purchase an aftermarket add-on kit to implement it. The auto-reverse mechanism uses sensors to detect objects in the path of the closing door. If an object is detected, the opener will automatically reverse the door’s direction, preventing accidents or property damage. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install the kit correctly.
3. Install an Emergency Release Cord:
An emergency release cord is a simple yet effective safety feature that should be present in all garage door openers, regardless of their age. This mechanism allows you to manually open the garage door in case of a power outage or when the opener malfunctions. If your old opener doesn’t have an emergency release cord, it is easy to install one. Simply follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer, positioning the cord within easy reach.
4. Integrate Rolling Code Technology:
Older garage door openers often use a fixed code system, making them susceptible to code grabbing or cloning attacks by potential burglars. Rolling code technology provides increased security by generating a unique access code each time you use the opener. While upgrading your old opener to include this feature may require professional assistance, it greatly improves your garage’s security.
5. Enhance Lighting and Sound Alerts:
Insufficient lighting in the garage area can pose a safety hazard, particularly when entering or exiting the space at night. Enhancing the lighting around your garage door opener can help prevent trips, falls, or accidents. Consider installing LED lights that automatically illuminate when the opener is activated. In addition to lighting, ensure that your opener includes audible alerts such as warnings before closing or reverse signals to increase safety awareness.
6. Regular Maintenance and Safety Checks:
Even after incorporating the mentioned safety features, it is crucial to regularly maintain and inspect your old garage door opener. Check the sensors routinely to ensure they are functioning correctly and free from dirt or debris. Test the auto-reverse mechanism by placing an object in the path of the closing door to ensure it promptly responds. Additionally, maintain a schedule for lubricating moving parts and replacing worn-out components to avoid malfunctions.
While upgrading to a new garage door opener with built-in safety features may be the best long-term solution, incorporating safety features into an old garage door opener is still an option worth considering. By performing a thorough inspection, adding essential safety enhancements like an auto-reverse mechanism, emergency release cord, and rolling code technology, along with improving lighting and sound alerts, you can significantly increase safety around your garage. Always prioritize regular maintenance and safety checks to ensure optimal performance and peace of mind.