People lose or break their garage door remotes more often than you might think. It’s a good idea to keep an extra on hand, as this will save you time and money when you need to operate your garage doors.
Standard garage remotes can be purchased from a home improvement store or online retailer and programmed by following the instructions that come with them. Universal remotes are more difficult to program and require a specific set of dip switches.
Choosing a garage door in Phoenix? Consider compatibility, range, security features and user-friendly controls for convenience and reliability.
Keychain Remotes
Spare garage door opener remotes are a good idea to have on hand in case your primary one gets lost or damaged. However, choosing the right replacement can be confusing. Each manufacturer produces its own replacement remotes and there are also universal remotes available. The key is to determine which features you need and the size of the remote you want.
For example, the LiftMaster 380UT is a sleek pocket-sized remote that can be easily carried in your purse, wallet, or on a lanyard. It features Security+ rolling-code technology to improve safety and requires less time to program than other remotes.
Another option is to get a wall-mount wireless keypad to mount on your garage wall and control your doors. These can be set up with custom PINs that allow family members or trusted dog walkers to enter. They also come with scheduling options so you can give access to package delivery drivers, babysitters and others at specific times.
Full-Size Remotes
Usually shaped like a rectangle and featuring a single button for each function, full-size remotes can operate one or more garage doors and even remote-controlled lights. For added security, consider opting for a remote that utilizes rolling code technology, which generates new codes each time your remote transmits a signal to the receiver.
Look for the brand and model number of your opener on the motor unit located inside the garage or on the wire antenna to find an exact replacement for your existing remote. Once you’ve found the correct remote, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to program it, which involves syncing it by matching micro-switches on both the remote and the opener. Then enjoy your garage door remote’s newfound functionality.
Mini-Remotes
The garage door remote is a simple device that performs a crucial job every day in millions of homes. But with so many new features included in a single small remote that claim to simplify your life, picking the right garage door remote can seem complicated.
Whether you’re shopping for a new remote or need to replace a lost one, this guide will help you choose the right replacement. Learn how to look for compatibility, read about the different options, and consult your user manuals.
If you want to avoid carrying your remote around, consider adding a keypad for your garage. These wall-mount devices can allow family members and friends to enter your garage without having to take your keys with them—a great option if you have kids or pets. Some even offer personalized PINs for delivery drivers and dog walkers, giving you peace of mind when leaving your home unattended.
Universal Remotes
There are a few different types of universal remotes available on the market that can be used to replace your existing garage door remote. However, before you purchase one be sure to check to make sure that it is designed to work with your specific door manufacturer and model.
Ideally, it is best to buy an exact replacement remote for your garage door from the manufacturer directly if possible. This will ensure the highest quality and performance between your opener and remote. Look for the manufacturer and model information on your motor unit or on the external receiver near the wire antenna to find out which brand and type of remote is designed to work with your door.
Determine how many doors you want to open with your new garage door remote and then choose a remote that has enough buttons to do so. You may also want to consider getting a remote that can control the lights on your garage or the house as well.