There are different types of garage door remotes out there, however, choosing the right one can be a bit confusing. While each manufacturer makes their own replacement remotes, universal remotes are also available. You must determine the size as well as the features of the remote you need. Here are some of the different types of garage door remotes.

Types of Garage Door Remotes

Types of Garage Door Remotes

In this post, we’ll have a look at some of the different types of garage door remotes and how to choose the right one for your automated garage door.

Find the Garage Door Opener Information

Look for the model and manufacturer information near the wire antenna on the external receiver or on the garage ceiling. Using this information, you can get the right replacement for your remote by matching the model number and brand and purchase it directly online, from your local hardware store or the manufacturer’s representative.

This is the best way to find an exact replacement that will ensure your garage door works and opens when supposed to. Especially if your garage door opener is a bit older. Many older models don’t support universal remotes, but manufacturers still sell replacements.

Universal Garage Door Remotes

Universal garage door remotes are available, allowing you to program them for use with most newer garage door openers. You’ll still need to know the manufacturer to determine whether the remote will work for your garage door and pulleys. Most universal garage door remotes can be programmed to open one or two garage doors. With the addition of a light control switch, universal garage door remotes can also be used to turn on the lights in your garage or home. If you have a newer garage door but you’re not sure about the exact model, consider investing in a universal remote.

The Buttons

Most times, the number of devices a remote can be used to control determines the number of buttons it has. For instance, if you have a remote-controlled garage light and two garage doors, then you’ll need a remote with at least three buttons. Two garage doors or one light and one garage door requires two buttons. Typically, garage door remotes are available with up to four buttons.

Programming the Remote

If you purchase the right remote for your particular garage door or brand, then programming is usually pretty straightforward. Just by pressing, holding and releasing the buttons according to the instructions, the remote should automatically determine your garage door opener’s radio frequencies. 

Universal remotes are a bit more complicated. Usually, you’ll have to start by setting the dip switches on the remote to indicate the brand of the garage door opener before setting the radio frequency. Make sure your universal remote has a full set of programming instructions.

Bottom Line

Once you know the different types of garage door remotes, choosing the right one for your garage door should be a walk in the park. You can also replace your remote with a wireless keypad. Wireless keypads require a security code to open the garage door and are convenient if you’ve forgotten or lost your remote.

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