If you’re in the market for a new garage door opener, you might be wondering how to know what garage door remote is compatible with your system. There are a few things to consider when making your purchase.
In this article, we’ll show you how to find the right garage door opener remote for your needs by first finding your garage door opener make and model number and then checking compatibility options. We’ll also guide where to find Chamberlain, Liftmaster, Genie, and other brands’ compatibility information.
Lastly, we’ll touch on some key considerations for choosing a universal garage door opener remote or keypad, such as how many buttons you need and whether you should buy additional units.
By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly which garage door opener remote is right for your needs!
First Find Your Garage Door Opener Make, Model, and Year
The first step in finding a garage door opener remote that is compatible with your system is to identify the make, model, and year of your garage door opener.
This information can usually be found on a label affixed to the back or side of the motor unit. If you cannot find this label, you may be able to locate the information in your owner’s manual.
Once you have this information, you can begin to narrow down your choices for a new remote.
Checking Compatibility Options
With your garage door opener make and model number in hand, you can now start to check compatibility options.
For some garage door opener brands, such as Chamberlain, there is a dedicated website where you can input your garage door opener information to find compatible products.
Other brands, such as Genie, have their compatibility information listed on their product pages.
Still, other brands, such as Liftmaster, have a general compatibility chart that you can use to cross-reference your opener model with compatible products.
You can also check with your local garage door opener retailer or installer for guidance on which products are compatible with your system.
Where to Find Chamberlain Compatibility Information
If you have a Chamberlain garage door opener, you can find compatible remote products by visiting the Chamberlain website and inputting your garage door opener model number into the compatibility checker.
Specifically, go to their support page on remote compatibility here.
Where to Find Liftmaster Compatibility Information
Liftmaster provides a general garage door opener compatibility chart on their website that you can use to find compatible remotes, keypads, and other products.
You can view the compatibility chart here.
Where to Find Genie Compatibility Information
If you have a Genie garage door opener, you can find compatible remote products by visiting the Genie remote control compatibility tables by North Shore Commercial Door.
Scan through the list (or use CTRL-F from your computer) to quickly find your model.
Underneath where it has your model North Shore will tell you exactly which remotes you can buy.
Keep in mind other universal remotes will work as well but we’ll get to that later in this article.
Where to Find Other Brands Compatibility Information
For other brands, such as Craftsman, Wayne Dalton, Stanley, or Linear you can check their websites or contact customer support for specific guidance on which products are compatible with your system.
In some cases, such as with the Craftsman garage door opener, the same model number can be used for multiple products and the compatibility information will vary depending on the year the unit was manufactured.
As such, it is important to check for specific compatibility guidance before making a purchase.
Universal Garage Door Opener Remote Controls
If you are unable to find a specific garage door opener remote that is compatible with your system, you may be able to use a universal garage door opener remote control.
Universal remotes are designed to work with multiple brands and models
Is It Better to Buy a Garage Remote Made by The Manufacturer or a Universal Remote?
There is no definitive answer. Some people feel that the manufacturer-made garage remotes work better because they are made specifically for that brand of garage door opener. Other people find that universal garage remote controls work just as well, if not better, than the manufacturer-made versions.
Universal remotes also have the advantage of being typically less expensive than manufacturer-made remotes.
It is ultimately up to you to decide which type of garage door opener remote control is best for your needs.
Some Other Considerations for Choosing a Universal Garage Door Opener Remote or Keypad
Once you have determined which type of garage door opener remote is right for your needs, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind as you shop.
First, check the number of buttons on the remote control or keypad.
If you only have one garage door, you will only need a one-button remote control.
However, if you have multiple doors, gates, or other products that you would like to operate from the same remote, you will need a multi-button remote or keypad.
Second, be sure to check the battery type that is required for the remote control or keypad.
Some models use standard AA or AAA batteries, while others may require a special size or type of battery.
If you are unsure which type of battery is required, check the product manual or contact the manufacturer for guidance.
Purchase the Extra Remote(s) and Keypad(s) You Need
Once you have determined which type of garage door opener remote or keypad is right for your needs, it’s time to make your purchase.
Install the Keypad(s) in a Convenient Location
If you are using a garage door opener keypad, be sure to install it in a convenient location near your garage door(s).
Most models can be installed quickly and easily with just a few screws.
Follow the instructions that come with your keypad for guidance on installation.
Program the New Remote(s) and Keypad(s)
Once you have installed your new keypad(s), it’s time to program them to work with your garage door opener.
Most models can be programmed using the “learn” button on your garage door opener unit.
Refer to your product manual for specific instructions on how to program your particular model.
If you are having trouble programming your remote or keypad, contact the manufacturer for assistance.
Test the New Remote(s) and Keypad(s)
Once you have programmed your new remote(s) and keypad(s), be sure to test them to ensure they are working properly.
Open and close your garage door a few times to test the range of the signal.
You should also try operating your garage door from multiple locations to be sure the signal is strong enough to work from anywhere you need it to.
Conclusion
Purchasing a new garage door opener remote or keypad is a great way to improve the convenience and security of your home.
Be sure to do your research to find the right model for your needs, and be sure to follow the instructions carefully to program it properly.
With just a little effort, you can have a new garage door opener remote that makes your life a little easier.