Question:
I'm thinking of buying a Chamberlain automatic garage door opener, does
anyone have any experience of these?, reliability, ease of use etc, or
maybe recommend any others
Answer:
Chamberlain is one of the better low-cost openers. Chamberlain are
probably the biggest manufacturer of remote openers in the world.
It has also been "badged" by a number of other manufacturers over the
years, so you will find the same casing but different names on the side.
The system is chaindrive. Good range with hand transmitters (some others
on the market are problematic).
The standard boom is suitable for most up--and-over [fully retractable]
doors. You will need a conversion [D-shaped] arm if your door u&o door
is canopy mechanism. Sectional overhead doors will require an extension
piece for the boom over 7'6".
There are now many types of openers on the market, and more coming along.
My own business has seen a considerable rise in automation over the last
2 to 3 years. After all you wouldn't want to get up from your seat and
change channels on your TV nowadays would you ?
Stay away from stuff like Synapse (still available through B&Q, although
the importer OML has gone bust, and they were cheapos anyway.]
Beltdtive systems such as Marantec 250 and Hormann Supramatic are very
good -- smooth operation with soft stop -- but more pricy than the
Chamberlain & other chaindrives.
