How Much Does It Cost To Install An Automatic Garage Door Opener?

Cost for garage door opener installation by type

The cost for garage door opener installation varies depending on the type of garage door opener you choose. On average, garage door prices range between $150 to $500 but can go as high as $1,500. 

These are the different types of garage door openers and their cost of installation: 

Chain-driven

 Typically, chain-driven garage door openers are the least expensive, ranging between $150 and $250. They work by using a metal chain to push and pull the garage door along the tracks to easily raise and lower it. Chain-driven garage door openers were one of the first automatic garage door openers to hit the market.

Homeowners report the biggest issue with chain-driven openers is the noise. Since they work to move the door on demand, this type of garage door opener is often very loud. Plus, they may also require more maintenance over the years. 

Belt-driven

The second most affordable automatic garage door opener is belt drive openers. These cost anywhere from $175 to $450. Belt drive systems use a strong, steel-reinforced rubber belt to raise and lower garage doors. 

Belt-driven garage doors are significantly less noisy than chain-drive openers. This type of electric garage door system comes with a battery backup to prevent maintenance. However, belt drive openers can wear out faster than chains, especially if the belts are exposed to extreme temperatures and humidity. 

Screw-driven

Screw-driven garage door openers range from $200 to $500. Like a screw, this type of automatic garage door opener uses a threaded metal rod that rotates to open and close the garage door. Much quieter than a chain-drive opener, screw-driven openers have very few moving parts. Therefore, maintenance costs are low. 

Direct drive

Direct drive garage door openers cost anywhere between $275 and $450. Made with the simplest design, this type of garage system opens and closes the garage door without a chain, belt, or screw. 

There are many pros to the direct drive system. For instance, this type of garage door opener makes very little noise, lifts heavier garage doors, and withstands more extreme temperatures. Plus, this system comes with automatic reverse safety systems to prevent the garage from lowering with items in the way. 

Commercial

The most expensive type of electric garage door opener is commercial operators, which range from $300 to $1,500. The cost of a garage door opener depends on the horsepower and chain strength needed to lift huge commercial doors.

Considerations for garage door opener installation

The cost for garage door opener installation varies depending not only on the type of automatic garage door opener but also on additional factors. Other factors to consider are whether the opener is new or a replacement, local labor fees, horsepower requirements, and more. 

New garage door openers

It can be costly to install a new garage door opener without an existing system in place. Typically, this cost ranges anywhere from $225 to $525 but can go as high as $825, depending on the model. 

If you’re also installing a new garage door, the price will increase. Typically, garage door prices range from $350 to $1,100, plus labor. 

Replacement garage door openers

If you’re in need of a replacement garage door opener, you’re looking at an average cost of $525. Although, if you have parts from the old unit that you’re able to reuse, this could lower the cost of installation. 

What are labor costs?

The cost of labor for installation will vary depending on where you live in the U.S. On average, the hourly rate for a garage door installer is $65 to $85. Typically, installations take anywhere between two and six hours, leaving you with $130 to $510 in labor fees. 

If you’re installing a new garage door opener system, you may need to hire an electrician to properly wire the opener, increasing labor costs. Electricians usually cost anywhere from $50 to $70 an hour. 

What’s the strength required?

Electric garage door openers run on horsepower to help raise and lower garage doors. Having the right horsepower (HP) for your garage door opener is an important part of a properly functioning system. 

On average, garage door openers range from ⅓ HP to 2 HP. Smaller openers with as little as ½ HP will cost about $120, and larger motors will be more expensive, up to $500 or more for 2 HP. 

Garage door openers with smaller motors can handle up to 150 pounds, whereas larger motors can manage up to 400 pounds. 

What accessories are needed?

Many garage door openers have accessory options to make automatic garage door openers even more efficient. These accessories can include remotes and keypads, lighting units, and sensors. Most garage door opener replacements cost around $15 to $40, and keypads cost anywhere from $30 to $60. 

Many garage door systems come with a lighting system, but if it doesn’t, you can expect to pay between $50 and $150 for one. Ideally, lights should turn on when the garage door opens or closes and stays on for a few minutes so you can safely enter and exit your home. 

Nowadays, garage door sensors are sold with all garage door openers. However, if you have an older system, you may need to have one installed. Installing a garage door sensor costs between $50 to $100 each, depending on the type of sensor. Laser sensors scan for movement across the path of the garage door while it’s in use, whereas automatic reverse sensors automatically reverse the direction of the door if it senses motion while closing. 

What are maintenance costs?

When well-maintained, electric garage door openers last up to 15 years. Garage door opener maintenance includes checking the battery backup in the opener and remotes, testing sensors, inspecting pulleys and cables for wear and tear, and tightening chains and belts as needed. 

Hiring a professional to conduct yearly garage door maintenance costs between $65 and $85 per visit.