Why You Should Have a Backup Battery for the Garage Door Opener

Power outages are common and they can occur when you least expect them. If this happens, you will either need to open your garage door manually or search for alternative sources of power. The good news is you can now equip your garage door opener with a backup battery. This will come in handy in the event of power failure.

What is a backup battery?

Prior to going shopping for the backup battery, you should take some time to learn more about it. This is a small 12-volt battery unit which powers the opener in case of power outage. The majority of door opener brands provide the option of using the backup battery. Some will even come with a backup battery.

The first thing you have to do before you go shopping is to check if your model can accommodate a backup battery. You should also check the recommended dimensions and output. More often than not, the backup battery will be installed in the motor housing. It is also possible for the battery to be installed over the motor. The important point to remember here is that one brand of battery can’t be used with another brand of door opener. You have to find the battery that is built for your brand.

Features of the battery

When there is power outage, a backup battery that is fully charged will typically supply power to the garage door opener with a standby power of 24 hours. During this time, the battery will be able to supply adequate power for the opener to operate for at least 20 full cycles (one cycle equals to opening and closing). The batteries normally recharge within 4 ½ hours. They can be recycled.

When to change the backup battery

Depending on the model of backup battery, you will hear a beep within 2 to 30 seconds in addition to an orange/red light which shows the state of the battery. Always spend some time on the website of your battery manufacturer to learn more about it.

How much does it cost?

The cost of the battery will depend on the brand and model of the battery. On average, it will cost you between $50 and $100 to buy a new backup battery.

What happens if you don’t buy a backup battery?

If there is a power failure and you don’t have a backup battery, the only option will be to open the door manually. You do this by pulling the red emergency release cord on your door opener. This will disengage the trolley allowing you to lift the door manually. Don’t forget to reengage the trolley by connecting it to the release mechanism once you are done moving your car. If you don’t reconnect the trolley, anybody can open the door manually. Install a side lock to help lock the door with a steel bar that goes into the vertical track. Unlock the manual lock when the power comes back.

Buying a backup battery saves you time and improves security. You can contact your local garage door specialist for advice. Ask for several quotations before making a decision.