How much does it cost to install a garage door opener?

Reviewed by Danit Shapiro remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

If you have a garage, you may be considering adding or replacing a garage door opener as a side project or part of a garage remodel. They are convenient, especially in bad weather, because they enable you to open your door either by remote, smart device, or keypad, without having to get out of your car. Many modern openers also provide security features that prevent forced entry and block code theft or automatically close your garage door after a period of time.

Costs depend on where you live, the opener type, its features, and the horsepower of its motor. The national average cost of installing a garage door opener ranges from $300 to $600, with most homeowners paying around $480 to install a ¾ HP (horsepower) belt-drive garage door opener. The cost can be as low as $230 to install a ½ HP chain-drive garage door opener. On the high end, it can cost $1,100 for a professional installation of a 1 HP Jackshaft-drive opener with Smart features.

Cost for Garage Door Opener

Average Cost of Garage Door Opener by Power Source

There are two main types of power sources for garage door openers. The power source is an essential part of the system. Since it is not manual, the power source allows it to close and open when needed. Without it, you could be left without a way to leave or gain entry to the garage with your vehicle. A replacement battery may be needed once every two years and cost about $20 to $100.

You can go with a traditional hardwired system or choose an eco-friendly solar opener. With the solar option, the price is often a bit higher. However, it can be easier to manage and may prevent blackouts during natural disasters or storms. Hardwired systems can also be made more robust for emergencies if equipped with a battery backup system. Keep in mind that these batteries do not last forever and may require replacement at some point.

Hardwired Garage Door Opener

Hardwired garage door openers range in price from $150 to $600. The most common is the hardwired, which will have a wall switch inside the garage that can be used to open and close the door. A remote can also be used in tandem with this kind of system to make it more convenient. It uses electricity as power, which may be ideal for those in areas with little sunlight. A hardwired garage door needs to be installed into the electrical system to operate. It acquires power in the same way as a power outlet does to charge your home devices. This is the most common type and can be paired with battery backup for versatility.

Solar Garage Door Opener

You can expect to pay $300 to $500 for the ability to power your garage door without using electricity. However, the lack of energy use can decrease your monthly utility bills, making up for the higher price. At least a few hours of sunlight must be provided each day for proper operation. Those in areas without a lot of sunlight may find this system is not the best choice.

Garage Door Opener Cost by Type

Garage door openers come in various types. Each has pros and cons. Some are known for their longevity, while others are better at noise-control or in situations where overhead space is an issue. This results in a wide range of costs. When choosing one, consider the factors most important to you to determine which offers the best value:

Chain-Drive

A chain-drive single garage door opener installation price ranges from $150 to $250. This type of system uses a chain-running assembly unit attached to tension springs that raise and lower the door. They are typically the least expensive and the most popular. They are strong and durable, and heavy garage doors, such as wooden and insulated doors, may require them. However, they can be noisy and may not be suitable for garages situated below living areas. Another disadvantage is that they usually require more maintenance.

Alternative Current

The prices of openers powered by AC range from $150 to $270. AC (alternating current) motors are controlled by various components, rather than a circuit board. Openers with AC motors have been used much longer than those with DC (direct current) motors, so they are a tried-and-true alternative and last a long time. However, AC motors are generally noisier than DC motors and are typically too heavy to allow for new components, such as battery backup or MyQ technology, which connects your garage to your smartphone.

Screw-Drive

The average price to install an opener of this type is $175 to $250. Screw-drive motors use a threaded metal rod that rotates like a screw to open and close the door. They are moderately priced and have fewer moving parts than other systems. So, they have less chance of breaking down, as long as the screw threads are lubricated appropriately. These are less reliable when opening heavy one-piece doors and do not respond well to temperature fluctuations. They are quieter than chain-driven openers but noisier than belt-driven ones.

Belt-Drive Garage Door Opener

A belt-drive garage door opener cost ranges between $200 and $350. Belt-drive motors operate similarly to chain-driven ones, but the lifting is done with a belt rather than a chain. They are quiet and have less vibration than other types. This type of system is extremely strong and lasts for years without the need for replacement. Belt-drive motors also operate more quickly than other types. They require less regular maintenance, but the belt tends to slip in high temperatures and humidity. Another disadvantage is their shorter life span and higher cost.

Direct Current

DC automatic opener prices are between $300 and $350. DC-powered (direct current) motors use an electronic circuit board to control the amount of power delivered to the motor. They are faster, lighter, quieter, and operate more smoothly than other types. Many offer battery backup, come with varying start and stop speeds, and use less energy. If you like motors with Internet connectivity, DC-powered ones are your only choice. However, their lifespan is about one-third that of AC motors, and they cost more when comparing motors of equal horsepower.

Direct-Drive

The cost for an opener that is a direct drive is between $300 and $500. Direct-drive motors use only a motor to open your door, rather than a belt, chain, or screw. They are quiet (perhaps more so than a belt-drive), reliable, almost maintenance-free, and come with lifetime warranties. The disadvantage is their higher cost. They also are just beginning to become popular in the United States and may be more difficult to find. However, they are long-lasting and have a lot of power. They are extremely reliable due to having a single moving part.

Jackshaft-Drive

The average garage door opener installation with a jackshaft model costs between $550 and $640. Jackshaft motors are installed on the side of the door, keeping the ceiling free for overhead storage. They use a motor that drives pulleys and cables that turn the torsion bar to raise the door. They work well for large doors and in garages with either high or low ceilings. They are also quiet, although typically not as quiet as a belt-driven model. They also can easily be equipped with additional security options and high-tech features. The disadvantages are that they are more expensive and can only be used on sectional doors.

The cost of an automatic opener, including installation, depends on a variation of factors. The city and state you live in, the brand of automatic opener you choose and the features you are looking for. With so many variations of features and accessories, the cost will differ and depend on your needs. Weight and size of your garage door may also be of importance in order to choose the right automatic opener, as you may need a heavy duty opener for a glass garage door, and a standard 1/2 HP automatic opener for the steel sectional door. It's best to contact a garage door expert in order to help choose the right garage door opener.

Danit Shapiro, garage door specialist

Garage Door Opener Price by Horsepower Rating

Another key factor in determining the cost of your opener is horsepower ratings. These ratings describe the lifting capacity of the motor. The larger and heavier the garage door, the greater the horsepower rating needed to lift it. Although buying the minimum horsepower rating that your garage door requires costs less upfront, a motor with extra horsepower lifts the door more easily. Because a more powerful motor experiences less wear and tear, it tends to last longer, justifying the extra cost over the long term. The prices below include the cost of the opener without any labor and installation costs.

½ HP

Prices for a ½ HP opener generally range from $120 to $200. A ½ HP motor can lift residential, aluminum, and steel single or double doors that weigh no more than 300 pounds and measure roughly 8’ to 12’ wide. This size motor is quite popular, but it needs to be replaced more often than one with a higher HP rating. Homes with small, lightweight garage doors will benefit from the low price and efficiency of a motor with this horsepower.

¾ HP

Expect to pay between $160 and $350 for a ¾ HP motor. A ¾ HP motor is more suitable for oversized doors or those made of heavier materials, such as wood. It also can be used with aluminum doors if you want less wear and tear. However, it will not work well for doors that weigh more than 500 pounds, so it may need to be replaced more often with heavier doors or situations where the opener is used several times a day. This size comes at a good price and offers great efficiency for the average home garage.

1 HP

Garage door openers with 1 HP motors average $180 to $400. Residential doors that weigh more than 500 pounds and commercial garage doors require 1 HP or higher. Motors with 1 HP also last longer than ¾ HP doors but cost more initially. This is an average amount of horsepower that works well in most residential situations. However, moving up to a 1 1/4 or 1 1/2 HP model may be best for those with a lot of garage door use throughout the day.

1 ¼ HP

Garage door openers with 1-¼ HP motors range from $200 to $450. These can be used for heavy residential doors for one- or two-car garages. If a carriage door is being used, choosing a door opener with at least this much power is recommended. This type of opener will offer better longevity for a home with several vehicles coming in and out of the space regularly.

1 ½ HP

Most 1-½ HP openers cost between $250 and $500. This is the final size of opener that is typically used for residential garages. It features a longer life and is less likely to wear out than less powerful units. In addition, as a more powerful opener, it will often come with additional features. The power can be used to power motion-sensing lights, soft-start motors, and extra security features. There are motors with more than 1 1/2 HP, but these are more commonly used for commercial purposes rather than homes.

2 HP

You can expect to pay between $250 and $550 for a 2 HP garage door opener. While not as common as the less powerful openers, these are still sometimes used with residential doors. It will be capable of serious work and can be used more continuously than those with lower horsepower. This kind of system will largely be used for a heavy door to open it quickly. Garage door openers of more than 2 HP are typically used only for commercial purposes.

New Garage Door Opener Cost by Type

Several manufacturers produce quality openers. Each brand has strengths and weaknesses, and not all brands make all types of openers. Once you have determined the type of motor you need, narrow down the brand choices. Then, decide which brand offers the best features for your budget. The prices throughout this section refer to the cost of the unit itself, not the cost of garage door openers installed. The prices include all door openers provided by a brand. If a brand does not include a certain type of openers (such as belt-driven), this is not considered for costs.

Sommer Garage Door Opener

The electric opener price for a Sommer unit runs from $140 to $280. This is an inexpensive brand that offers direct-drive technology on its motors. The parts are made to be long-lasting and create a large amount of lifting force. Sommer is best-known as a European manufacturer of quality wireless control systems and garage door openers. The brand also offers accessories, such as the Alarm/Warning Buzzer, which plays a loud noise if forced entry is detected on the motor.

Genie Garage Door Opener

A Genie garage door opener costs from $150 to $250. Genie is a popular brand and has many reliable options. It is also more budget-friendly than other brands. Genie’s products come with an intelligent security system, a safe infrared beam system, and diagnostic and monitoring technology. However, a disadvantage is that many of its models need rail extension kits or Smart connect packages, sold separately. Genie offers screw-drive, chain-drive, belt-drive, and wall-mounted options.

Guardian Garage Door Opener

The average auto opener price for a Guardian model is $160 to $380. The Core series features an AC motor to lift heavy residential doors and comes with a chain or belt drive. The Pro series includes soft start, controlled electronic limits, and auto force learning features that work with a belt drive. This brand also offers a variety of door controls, accessories, and hardware for openers and garage doors.

Chamberlain Garage Door Opener

The average Chamberlain garage door opener cost is about $200 to $250. Chamberlain is a popular brand known for its Smart technology and security features. It produces belt-driven, direct-drive, and chain-driven motors, all available with Wi-Fi and battery backup. Some of its models include encryption technology and automatic locking features. However, Chamberlain systems usually require a very strong Wi-Fi signal to operate.

Craftsman Garage Door Opener

A Craftsman garage door opener cost is from $200 and $250. Craftsman is known for making very reliable products, offering a variety of motor options, including belt-driven, chain-driven, and Smart technology. Some of its models operate on a tri frequency, which prevents interference with other appliances. Most Craftsman systems automatically close the door after some time, but many of them are not compatible with HomeLink. And, in some cases, the Internet Gateway is sold separately.

Hormann

Overhead door opener prices from Hormann average about $200 to $275. Hormann produces doors and openers and is known for high-quality engineering. Its Silent Drive series is popular and can quickly and quietly open doors up to 12 feet high. The series also has an intelligent motion guard and a limited lifetime warranty. One disadvantage is that Hormann is sold only through authorized dealers and cannot be found in major retailers. All openers from the brand are made with a belt drive.

LiftMaster Garage Door Opener

A LiftMaster garage door opener cost ranges from about $250 to $400. Liftmaster has a long history of making this type of product, focusing on being the safest. It also makes a variety of types, including Jackshaft, belt, and chain-driven. An advantage of LiftMaster models is the large number of options. However, the Internet gateway is usually sold separately, and LiftMaster requires professional installation.

Ryobi Garage Door Opener

While accessories can increase the cost, a Ryobi garage door opener cost is about $250 to $400. Ryobi is known for its innovative technology. Its newest belt-driven motor has a 2 HP motor and LED light to illuminate the room. It can be controlled from a smartphone, has a lithium-ion battery for backup power, and has accessories that can play your favorite music or help you park your car. A drawback of this system is that it has not been on the market long enough to compare its lifespan with others. These door openers have a belt drive system.

Linear Garage Door Opener

A Linear garage door opener cost ranges from $350 to $400 but can only be accessed through a professional installer. Linear Corp makes openers and remotes with the brand names of Linear, Allister, Allstar, and Pulsar. They are known for performance and innovation. The remotes are designed to work with motors from many manufacturers. The parent company, Linear, also makes various openers in both belt-drive and chain-drive versions.

Labor Cost to Install a Garage Door Opener

There are several reasons a professional should install your opener for you. The most important is that the professional has expertise and experience in installing these types of systems and can bring a helper with them if needed for a job. Finally, some adjustments may need to be done while installing an opener, which the professional can carry out safely.

The length of time required to install an opener depends on several factors. These include whether you are replacing a current system, installing one from scratch, and the motor type. A professional technician can likely finish the task in two to six hours at an hourly rate of about $65 to $85. So, the total average labor cost to install a garage door opener is about $130 to $510. The total cost ranges from $300 to $600.

If you have never had an electric opener before, an electrician first needs to install wiring. The cost depends on how far the garage is from your home and the number of outlets you need. The hourly rate for electrical work is usually between $40 and $120. This cost is not part of the typical price for installing an opener, so homeowners can expect to pay a bit more to complete it.

These types of systems need to be properly installed for safety. These openers include a carriage that runs along a rail from the motor to the garage front and a carriage that connects to the door. The installation process involves assembling the carriage tube, mounting it to the power unit, and slipping the carriage over the tube. The header bracket is installed near the door before the opener is installed. The bracket connects to the carriage arm before plugging in the safety device and testing to make sure the motor is operational.

Standard vs Universal Garage Door Openers Remote

When deciding on a type of remote opener, you need to consider if they are standard or universal. Almost all of the remotes available can be standard or universal. A standard remote is designed to be used with one specific type of opener. It cannot be used for any other garages. A universal is functionally different. These remote controls can be programmed and used with nearly any opener. This makes them more convenient, especially if you are not sure what model of door opener you currently use. All remotes except keypads are available in both universal and standard forms.

Cost of a Garage Door Opener Remote by Type

One of the most crucial things to consider when choosing an opener is the entry type. Most people use a remote control since it is convenient and easily accessible. Remotes send a message to the door motor that lets it know whether to open or close. Remotes come in various forms, with some able to be attached to vehicle interior visors or keychains. Others are attached to the garage in some way, such as keypads. Both work well depending on a homeowner’s needs.

Keychain

A keychain remote fits in the palm of your hand and costs about $15 to $30. This is a powerful way to control the garage remotely. It can have one or more buttons, which can be programmed to correspond to different doors. They also are fairly inexpensive. They must be either a universal remote or be paired specifically to a standard opener to work properly. A disadvantage is that radio frequencies can interfere with the system, causing the effective range to shorten.

Visor Clip

Costs range from $25 to $35 for a visor clip remote. It is similar to a keychain remote. These remotes have several buttons to open different sections of the garage, but like keychain clip remotes, they also suffer from radio frequency interference. They can be universal openers or specific to a particular door. The only major disadvantage of the visor clip remote is that if someone has access to your car, it is easy to see and remove the remote from the vehicle. This can make it less secure if you do not make a habit of taking it with you into a secure area of the home when you are not using the car.

Garage Door Keypad

The average keypad cost is $40 to $55. This option involves installing a keypad to open the garage. The keypad is usually installed on the wall beside the door. Instead of using a remote, you type your PIN into the keypad. This type of entry allows you to create a temporary PIN to give a repairman or meter reader access to your home. You also can have a remote keypad that uses the same code as the wall keypad. A disadvantage of this type of entry is that you must remember a PIN. Since it pairs with a specific door, it can only be used with standard door openers. Also, since the keypads are mounted outside, they are subject to vandalism and damage.

MyQ Garage Door Opener

While there is a wide range of prices, the average MyQ remote cost is $50 to $90. Smart MyQ technology allows you to control your opener from anywhere using your smartphone. One advantage is that you do not need to keep up with any extra remotes. In addition, if you forget to lock the door before you leave, you can lock it remotely. You can also share access to your home with others through the app and know when your garage has been opened. An Internet connection is required, but these remotes are universal and can be used for most openers. Another disadvantage is that they are more expensive than radio-controlled technology.

Garage Door Opener Replacement Cost

There are generally two different circumstances that require installing an opener. Either the garage completely lacks one, or the current system needs to be replaced, perhaps due to age or damage.

Generally, a direct replacement is less expensive to install than a completely new one. This is because existing openers will already have some of the necessary components in place. So, the installation merely involves removing the old motor and replacing it with the new model.

As long as the new unit is compatible with your existing structure, expect to pay less for the installation. The labor cost to replace a garage door ranges from about $130 to $510, depending on the installation time. Generally, the average cost to replace an opener is $225 to $450. This includes the cost of removing the old unit. The more structural changes there are, the more costly the installation becomes.

If you have an opener already but want to install a new one, you must remove your old one first. The average cost to hire an electrician to do the work is roughly $40 to $120 per hour for labor.

Garage Door Opener Repair Cost

Garage opener repair costs depend on the scope of repairs and range from about $50 to $550. For example, a new trolley costs about $25 plus labor, a new torsion spring ranges from $40 to $100, and a new roller costs from $100 to $150. Damaged or dated systems can cause the door to stop functioning correctly. If these repairs are not handled, the problem could become worse. This might necessitate replacing the remote or the entire unit.

If there is an issue with the opener itself, repairs are often less expensive than a full replacement. However, if the problem relates to the motor or electrical work, repairs may be more expensive. In that case, replacing the opener may be the better option. If the cost of parts is comparable to the price of the unit, replacement may be easier, less expensive, and provide you with a long lasting garage door opener.

Maintenance

The amount of maintenance required depends on the type. Chain-drive systems typically require the most maintenance. For example, you must lubricate the chain and adjust its limit, tighten loose hardware, keep the rails greased, and clean the light. Signs that your opener needs maintenance are slowness in response, refusal to open and close the door entirely, sagging doors, excessive noise, and increasing energy bills. If there is a need for maintenance, there are several steps you can take.

Inspecting the rollers, cables, springs, and hardware is an excellent way to start. Look for broken parts or frayed components. The door balance should also be tested on occasion. This involves closing the door, turning off the release mechanism, and seeing if the door is easy to lift. If it is difficult, it needs an adjustment from a professional. It is recommended to inspect and test the opener and door about once a month if you use it regularly.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Light Installation

If your opener does not already have a light, you can install one for about $50 to $100 if the wiring is in place. If not, you need to add the cost of an electrician for about one hour at $40 to $120 per hour. A light on your opener can illuminate your entire garage. This is especially useful when it is dark outside and you need to maneuver your car in and out of the garage. Most modern systems already come with a light.

Installing Garage Door Sensors

The cost is about $80 to $100 for the door sensors. These sensors tell your door to stop closing if something is in its way. This can be particularly useful if you have small children or a big vehicle. Some systems already have sensors included. Many older openers did not originally include sensors. There are two main options: laser and automatic sensors. Laser sensors shoot a beam of light from one side of the door opening to the other. If something is in the way, the door immediately stops and reverses direction. Automatic reversal sensors stop if they make contact with an object under the door. Like laser sensors, they automatically roll back up to prevent damage or injury. If your garage does not have sensors, you can add them. Make sure the older unit accommodates them before you begin. If not, a new opener may be needed.

Add Battery Backup to Garage Door Opener

The average cost for battery backup ranges from $75 to $175. If your opener does not have a battery backup, you can add one. The benefit of a battery backup is that if your home loses power, you can still open and shut your garage.

Automatic Lock

An automatic lock can be added to a garage door for about $100 to $300. Some brands, such as LiftMaster and Chamberlain, offer an automatic lock as a standard feature. Homeowners who want additional security and protection at home can consider adding an automatic lock. This ensures that every time the door is closed, it will lock on its own. You can think of this as similar to a deadbolt lock that you use on your front door for extra security.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• Spring replacement. The springs in your door wear down over time, slow your door, and create safety risks. Check your springs periodically because it is easier to replace springs than your entire door. Garage door springs usually cost between $15 and $150, depending on the spring type. Torsion springs cost the most, while extension springs cost the least.
• DIY. Installing this type of system is not an easy task. When thinking about doing it yourself, consider the time and costs required, as well as the risks. A professional can install a new opener in two or three hours. A do-it-yourselfer requires twice as long. And, installing it yourself may invalidate warranties.
• Financing options. There are payment plans to consider when purchasing an opener. Consult with each company about your options. Some companies offer flexible payment plans or financing options for those who would rather break up their payments.
• Warranties. Almost all units come with a warranty. The warranty usually varies, depending on where you purchased the product. The owner’s manual should give you specific warranty information. Service is usually not covered by the warranty. If the owner chooses to have a professional service the opener or if the installation is DIY, the warranty will likely not cover any repairs.
• Longevity. A garage opener should last on average between 10-15 years. This is an average and could be more or less, depending on how often it is used. If you keep up with the maintenance, it helps increase the lifespan of the product.