Installing a new garage door opener can seem like a daunting task, but with the right instructions, it can be done in just a few hours.
Overall expect it to take about four hours to complete the job from start to finish. This includes taking the old opener down and disposing of it, as well as installation of the new opener and programming it to work with the new garage door remote.
In this article, we will outline how long each step takes and some tips to help you get the job done quickly and efficiently. So whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring a professional, you’ll have a good idea of what to expect.
How Long Does It Take to Install a Garage Door Opener DIY?
The average DIYer can expect to spend 4-6 hours installing a garage door opener. This includes time for set up, removal of the old opener (if necessary), installation of the new opener, and clean-up.
Expert installers may be able to do it in less time, but if you’re not experienced with wiring and installing garage door openers, it’s best to give yourself some extra time.
Watch this video to see an overview of the whole project and what you can expect.
Note – If all you are replacing is the opener itself you can do that in less than an hour. Watch this video to see it done in less than 15 minutes.
How Much Time Does It Take to Install an Opener for a Double Garage Door?
It will take about the same amount of time to install an opener for a double garage door as it does for a single. This is true for different types of garage doors (e.g. roll-up, tilt-up, panel, wood/decorative, etc.) as well.
How Long Does It Take A Professional To Install a Garage Door Opener?
If you’re hiring a professional to install your garage door opener, expect them to take 3-4 hours. This includes the time it takes for them to arrive at your home, assess the situation, and do the actual installation.
The longest part will be getting them scheduled to come in and do the work. Many companies are booked solid for weeks or even months in advance, so if you need it done quickly, be sure to call around and find someone who can come out on short notice.
What Factors Affect The Install Time?
Several factors can affect how long it takes to install a garage door opener.
The first is how familiar you or the professional you hire is with your specific opener and drive system. If it’s one that you’ve never seen before, it will take longer to install.
The second factor is whether or not the new opener is compatible with your existing garage door. If it’s not, then some modifications may need to be made to accommodate the new opener. This can add an hour or two to the job.
Finally, consider whether you’re replacing an existing opener. If that’s the case, there will be some extra time needed to remove and dispose of the old opener.
Keep these factors in mind when considering how long it will take to install your new garage door opener. If you
What Part Takes the Longest when Installing a Garage Door Opener?
The longest part of installing a new garage door opener is hanging the new opener and drive system.
Overall though the longest part would be removing the old opener, drive system, eyes, and all associated hardware.
Average Time for Each Step to Install a Garage Door Opener
- Disconnecting the Old Garage Door Opener From Power and Wall Switches: 10-30 minutes
- Removing the Chain or Belt Drive: 1-2 hours
- Detaching the Old Photoelectric Eyes: 10-30 minutes
- Hanging a New Garage Door Opener and Attaching Wall Switches: 1-2 hours
- Hanging and Attaching a New Chain or Belt Drive: 1-2 hours
- Adding and Configuring New Photoelectric Eyes: 10-30 minutes
- Powering Up and Testing: 10-30 minutes
Total Estimated Time: 4-6 hours for a do-it-yourselfer, 3-4 hours for a professional
As you can see, it will take some time to install a new garage door opener. But with some planning and preparation, the job can be done relatively quickly and easily. Just be sure to give yourself enough time so that you don’t have to rush through the process.
Tips to Reduce the Time It Takes to Install a Garage Door Opener
Here are a few tips to help you get the job done faster:
- Have all of the necessary tools and parts on hand before you start. This includes things like a drill, screwdriver, level, tape measure, hammer, and so on.
- Read through the instructions thoroughly before beginning. This will help you understand what needs to be done and in what order.
- If possible, enlist the help of a friend or family member. This will make the job go much quicker since there will be two of you working on it.
- If you’re hiring a professional, be sure to ask about their availability. Many companies are booked solid for weeks or even months in advance, so you’ll want to make sure they can come out on short notice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, expect it to take 4-6 hours to install a new garage door opener yourself and 3-4 hours if you hire a professional. The longest part will be removing the old opener and drive system, so plan accordingly.
You may complete several of the tasks described in this article in as little as 15 minutes. If you follow these pointers, you’ll be able to finish the work quickly and simply. Just make sure you allow enough time so that you don’t have to hurry through it.
Thanks for reading!