Difference Between Belt And Chain Drive Garage Door Openers
Garage door openers provide convenient access to your garage without the need to manually lift the door. When it comes to choosing a garage door opener, one of the most important factors to consider is the type of drive system that it uses. The two most common types of drive systems are belt and chain drives. In this article, we will discuss the differences between belt and chain drive garage door openers, and help you decide which one is right for you.
Belt Drive Garage Door Openers
Belt drive garage door openers use a rubber belt to operate the garage door. The belt is typically made of reinforced rubber, fiberglass or polyurethane. Belt drive garage door openers are known for being quiet and reliable. They are a great choice for homeowners who have bedrooms near or above the garage, as they produce minimal noise when in operation.
Belt drive garage door openers are also low maintenance. As they do not require lubrication like chain drive openers do, they are a great choice for homeowners who don't want to spend a lot of time or money on maintenance.
While belt drive garage door openers are generally more expensive than chain drive openers, they offer a number of benefits that may be worth the extra cost. In addition to their quiet operation and low maintenance, belt drive openers also tend to last longer than chain drive openers.
Chain Drive Garage Door Openers
Chain drive garage door openers use a metal chain to operate the garage door. The chain is typically made of steel, and moves along a rail to lift the door. Chain drive openers are known for their durability and low cost. They are a great choice for homeowners who want a reliable and affordable option.
However, one of the biggest downsides of chain drive openers is that they tend to be noisy. The metal-on-metal contact of the chain moving along the rail can produce a lot of noise, making them a poor choice for homeowners with bedrooms near or above the garage.
Chain drive garage door openers also require regular lubrication to prevent the chain from wearing down and potentially breaking. This can add to the maintenance costs of the opener over time.
Which One Should You Choose?
When it comes to choosing between a belt drive and a chain drive garage door opener, there are a few factors to consider. The first is noise. If you have bedrooms near or above the garage, a belt drive opener is likely the better choice. However, if noise is not a concern, a chain drive opener may be a good option for you.
The second factor to consider is cost. As mentioned, belt drive openers tend to be more expensive than chain drive openers. If cost is a concern, a chain drive opener may be the better choice.
The third factor is maintenance. If you don't want to spend a lot of time or money on maintenance, a belt drive opener may be the better choice. However, if you're willing to perform regular maintenance on your opener, a chain drive opener may be a good option for you.
In summary, both belt drive and chain drive garage door openers have their pros and cons. Consider your priorities and needs when it comes to noise, cost, and maintenance, and choose the opener that best meets those needs.