Belt Drive Vs Screw Drive Garage Door Opener
Garage door openers have become a necessary commodity for every household in the United States. It not only makes life easier but also provides an added layer of security. The market is filled with different types of garage door openers, but belt drive and screw drive garage door openers are the two most commonly used options. In this article, we will compare belt drive vs screw drive garage door openers and help you decide which one is best for your needs.
What is a Belt Drive Garage Door Opener?
A belt drive garage door opener operates using a rubber belt instead of a chain to lift the garage door. The belt is reinforced with steel, making it durable and long-lasting. It is also quieter than the chain drive garage door opener, making it a popular choice for homes with living spaces above or adjacent to the garage. Belt drive garage door openers come in varying horsepower with the ¾ horsepower being the most popular. They also have built-in security features like rolling code technology and infrared sensors that detect obstacles and prevent the garage door from closing on them.
What is a Screw Drive Garage Door Opener?
A screw drive garage door opener operates using a lifting mechanism that moves along a threaded rod. The rod rotates when the motor is activated, lifting or lowering the garage door. Screw drive garage door openers have fewer parts than a belt drive, making it easy to maintain. They also have a non-slip mechanism that prevents the garage door from slipping or jerking during opening or closing. Screw drive garage door openers come in varying horsepower, with the ½ horsepower being the most popular. They also have security features like rolling code technology and infrared sensors.
Belt Drive Vs Screw Drive Garage Door Opener: Differences
Now that we have discussed the basics of the two garage door openers, let's compare them in detail.
Noise Level
The belt drive garage door opener is undoubtedly the quieter of the two. The rubber belt absorbs the vibrations and noise, making it a better option for homes with living areas adjacent to the garage. The screw drive garage door opener, on the other hand, produces more noise due to the moving parts of the lifting mechanism.
Maintenance
Belt drive garage door openers require less maintenance compared to screw drive openers. The rubber belt is durable and doesn't require lubrication, thereby reducing the maintenance cost. Screw drive garage door openers need regular lubrication and maintenance to keep the threaded rod running smoothly.
Climatic Conditions
Belt drive garage door openers are ideal for regions with extreme climatic conditions. The rubber belt doesn't expand or contract due to temperature changes, making it immune to weather changes. Screw drive garage door openers, on the other hand, may develop operational problems in extreme weather conditions.
Cost
Screw drive garage door openers are generally less expensive compared to belt drive openers. However, belt drive garage door openers provide better durability and are quieter, making it a popular choice among homeowners.
Conclusion
The choice between a belt drive vs screw drive garage door opener depends on your requirements and budget. If you are looking for a garage door opener that is quiet, low maintenance and can withstand extreme weather conditions, a belt drive garage door opener is the perfect choice for you. If you are on a tight budget and don't mind regular maintenance, a screw drive garage door opener can be a good option.