If you’re a business owner in the Akron, Ohio, area, you know that having a reliable and secure garage door is essential for the smooth operation of your day-to-day operations. And when it comes to commercial garage doors, one of the most critical components is the opener.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss the key factors you need to consider when installing a commercial garage door opener for your business. We at Overhead Door of Akron have been providing top-notch garage door services since 1972, and our expert team is here to guide you through the process.
What are Commercial Garage Door Openers?
Firstly, it’s important to understand what a commercial garage door opener is and how it differs from a residential opener. Commercial openers are designed for heavy-duty use and can handle larger and heavier doors than residential openers. They also have more advanced features such as battery backup, remote operation, and security measures.
Understanding the Importance of a Good Garage Door Opener
It’s essential to understand why it is crucial to have a good garage door opener for your commercial establishment. A reliable and efficient garage door opener plays a vital role in ensuring convenience, safety, and security for your business. It allows the smooth operation of heavy-duty commercial doors, prevents accidents and injuries, and provides protection against theft or vandalism.
Understanding Horsepower
Another vital factor to consider is the horsepower of the opener. The horsepower determines how much weight the opener can lift and the speed at which it operates. Commercial garage door openers typically range from ½ to 1 horsepower, with larger doors requiring more horsepower.
When deciding on the appropriate horsepower for your business, consider not only the size and weight of your door but also the frequency of use. A higher horsepower may be necessary for businesses that have heavy traffic and require their doors to open and close frequently.
Choosing the Right Type of Garage Door Opener
The first thing you need to consider when installing a commercial garage door opener is choosing the right one. There are various types of openers available in the market, each with their own features and benefits. It is important to understand your specific needs and choose an opener that will meet those requirements.
Some common types of commercial garage door openers include:
- Chain drive openers: These are the most common and affordable type of openers, but can be noisy.
- Belt drive openers: These are quieter than chain drive openers, making them a popular choice for commercial spaces where noise is a concern.
- Screw drive openers: These are durable and require less maintenance but can be louder than belt drive openers.
- Jackshaft openers: These are mounted on the wall beside the garage door instead of being attached to the ceiling. They are ideal for commercial spaces with low clearance.
Depending on your budget and specific needs, one of these types may be a better fit for your business.
The benefits of installing a commercial garage door opener
Installing a commercial garage door opener can bring many benefits to your business. Some of these include:
- Convenience: No more manually opening and closing the garage door, saving time and effort.
- Security: Most commercial garage door openers come with advanced security features like rolling code technology, making it difficult for intruders to tamper with your door.
- Increased productivity: With a commercial garage door opener, you can easily move vehicles and equipment in and out of your business space, saving time and increasing productivity.
- Durability: Commercial garage door openers are built to withstand heavy use and can last for many years with proper maintenance.
Factors to consider before installing a commercial garage door opener
Before purchasing and installing a commercial garage door opener, there are a few essential factors to consider. These include:
- Type of Garage Door: The first thing you need to determine is the type of garage door you have. Whether it’s a sectional, rolling steel, or high-speed door, your choice of opener will depend on the style and size of your door.
- Weight and Size Capacity: Commercial garage doors are usually heavier and larger than residential ones. It is essential to know the weight and size capacity of your door before selecting an opener.
- Frequency of Use: How often will your garage door be used? This will help determine the type and strength of the opener you need.
- Safety Features: As a business owner, the safety of your employees and customers is a top priority. Make sure to choose an opener with advanced safety features such as motion sensors and emergency release systems.
- Compatibility: The garage door opener must be compatible with your existing remote control or keypad system. If you’re installing a new system, make sure it is compatible with the type of technology you prefer (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi).
Professional Installation is Key
While there are DIY options available for installing a commercial garage door opener, we highly recommend hiring a professional for the job. A properly installed opener is essential for both safety and functionality. Plus, it can save you from any potential issues or repairs down the line.
At Overhead Door Akron, our team of experts has the knowledge and experience to install your commercial garage door opener correctly and efficiently. We also provide ongoing maintenance services to keep your opener in top condition.
Maintenance and Repairs
Just like any mechanical equipment, a commercial garage door opener will require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance. It’s essential to schedule routine inspections and tune-ups to catch any potential issues before they turn into costly repairs.
If you do encounter any problems with your opener, it’s crucial to address them immediately by contacting a professional repair service. Attempting to fix an issue yourself can not only be dangerous but can also cause further damage to the opener.
In conclusion, installing a commercial garage door opener requires careful consideration of factors such as the type of opener, its horsepower, and professional installation. As a trusted provider of overhead doors in Akron, Ohio, we are here to guide you through the process and ensure a successful installation. Contact us today at (330) 929-3452 to learn more about our services and schedule an appointment with our team.