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Is It Worth Getting An Electric Garage Door?

If you’re a homeowner with a garage, you’re likely wondering if it’s worth getting an electric garage door. It’s a fair question, especially when considering the initial investment and potential benefits. In this blog post, we’ll explore the pros and cons of electric garage doors, helping you make an informed decision about whether it’s the right choice for your home.

What is an electric garage door?

Essentially, an electric garage door can be opened and closed automatically using an electric motor. This motor is typically controlled by a remote control, a wall-mounted button, or even a smartphone app in more modern systems.

The advantages of electric garage doors

  1. Convenience

 Perhaps the most significant benefit of an electric garage door is the convenience it offers. No more getting out of your car in the rain to manually open or close the door. With just a press of a button, you can access your garage from the comfort of your vehicle.

  1. Security

 Electric garage doors often come with advanced locking mechanisms that are more secure than traditional manual locks. Many models also feature rolling code technology, which changes the access code each time you use the remote, making it extremely difficult for potential intruders to crack.

  1. Safety features

 Most electric garage doors are equipped with safety sensors that detect obstacles and automatically reverse the door if something is in its path. This can prevent accidents and injuries, especially if you have children or pets.

  1. Energy efficiency

 Modern electric garage doors are often better insulated than their manual counterparts, which can help improve your home’s overall energy efficiency.

5. Increased property value

 An electric garage door can be seen as a desirable feature for potential buyers if you ever decide to sell your home.

The drawbacks of electric garage doors

  1. Initial cost: The upfront cost of installing an electric garage door can be significantly higher than a manual door.
  2. Maintenance: Electric doors have more components that can potentially fail, which might lead to higher maintenance costs over time.
  3. Power dependency: During a power outage, you may not be able to open or close your garage door automatically. However, most systems do have a manual override for such situations.
  4. Installation complexity: Installing an electric garage door often requires professional help, which can add to the overall cost.

Manual vs. Electric Garage Doors

To help you visualise the differences, here’s a comparison table of manual and electric garage doors:

FeatureManual Garage DoorElectric Garage Door
Opening mechanismManual effortMotorised
ConvenienceLowHigh
Initial costLowerHigher
Maintenance costGenerally lowerPotentially higher
Security featuresBasicAdvanced
Energy efficiencyVariableOften better
Safety featuresLimitedAdvanced
Power dependencyNoYes
Property value impactNeutralPositive

Is an electric garage door right for you?

The decision ultimately depends on your specific circumstances and preferences. Here are a few questions to consider:

  1. How often do you use your garage? If you use your garage multiple times a day, the convenience of an electric door might be well worth the investment.
  2. What’s your budget? While electric doors are more expensive initially, they can add value to your home and potentially save you money on energy bills in the long run.
  3. Do you have mobility issues? For those with limited mobility, an electric door can make accessing the garage much easier.
  4. Are you concerned about security? If security is a top priority, the advanced features of electric doors might give you peace of mind.
  5. How’s your local climate? In areas with harsh weather conditions, the ability to open and close your garage door without leaving your car can be a significant advantage.

FAQs 

How long do electric garage doors last? 

With proper maintenance, an electric garage door can last 15-30 years. The motor itself often lasts 10-15 years before needing replacement.

Can I convert my manual garage door to an electric one? 

 In many cases, yes. However, it’s best to consult with a professional to ensure your existing door is compatible with an electric opener.

Are electric garage doors safe? 

Yes, modern doors come with numerous safety features, including obstacle detection sensors and automatic reversal systems.

What happens if there’s a power cut? 

Most electric garage doors have a manual release mechanism that allows you to open and close the door manually during a power outage.

Can electric garage doors be hacked? 

While no system is 100% secure, modern doors use rolling code technology, making them extremely difficult to hack.

Do electric garage doors increase energy bills significantly? 

The energy consumption of an electric garage door is relatively low. Most models use about the same amount of electricity as a 60-watt light bulb when in operation.

Conclusion

Electric garage doors offer convenience, security, and safety that many homeowners find appealing. While they require a higher initial investment, the benefits they provide can make them a worthwhile addition to your home.

However, the decision isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your specific needs, budget, and circumstances should guide your choice. If you frequently use your garage, value convenience, or have mobility concerns, an electric garage door could be a game-changer for you.

If you’re considering installing an electric garage door, BFCC can provide you with more specific information based on your garage’s size and your particular requirements. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our garage door specialists for detailed quotes and professional advice tailored to your situation.

Contact BFCC for more information or a free quote at 01255 863 815 or by email at [email protected].