Smart devices have taken the world by storm. Nowadays, you don’t even need to be near your house to turn off the lights, or change the temperature – all you have to do is use your smartphone.
However, that raises a question – are smart devices essential, or is it just another marketing gimmick, to make us believe that we need them? Well, the truth is that it depends on the device – some of them are incredibly useful, and can make our lives a lot easier. In this article, we will focus on smart garage door openers.
Is getting one an investment, or is it just a waste of money? After all, there’s no point in replacing your beloved Linear garage door opener when it still works. Or is it? Keep reading to find out.
What Is a Smart Garage Opener?
A smart garage door opener, is a device that allows you to open, close, or even monitor your garage door from anywhere. These devices use your smartphone, or an internet-connected computer to connect to your garage door. It is usually controlled with an app, and it can be compatible with several smart home devices and home security systems.
What Are the Benefits?
As we have mentioned above, smart garage door openers’ main benefit is that you can control your door from anywhere – if you are having a hard time finding your key, or if you forgot to close it, you can just use your smartphone to do it.
Moreover, you can connect it to other smart home devices, such as lights and thermostats. This way, you can cool down the garage before you get there, or turn on the light inside your garage – all via a smartphone app.
The last benefit is that if your garage door openers are connected to a home security system, and other smart devices inside your house, it automatically boosts your home security. Every time someone tries to open the garage door, one of these systems will alert you. Some systems even come with cameras, allowing you to see what’s happening in front of your garage.
Can I Replace My Existing One?
The answer is yes – these devices can replace both old garage door openers with remotes, as well as gate openers. However, you must know that if you want to buy a new smart opener to replace an old one, you might have some issues with it.
Not all devices are compatible with old systems. For example, there’s no chance for an old Genie garage door opener to work with a Chamberlain one, as they use a different system. However, some manufacturers allow you to set up new devices on old systems that still work fine – just make sure to check the compatibility list before you buy.
Is It Worth It?
The main reason why smart garage door openers are expensive is because of the technology they use. They are manufactured with some very advanced sensors and integrated circuits – all of this makes them pretty expensive.
However, if you are looking for comfort and safety while using your garage door opener, then they are definitely worth it. Using a smartphone to open and close your door from any room in the house can make your life much easier.
Also, suppose you are already using an internet-connected system inside your house (such as an Amazon Alexa or Google Home). In that case, the chances are that it works well with other internet-connected devices. Thus, adding a smart garage door opener will make the existing system even more convenient.
And finally, if you have a security system installed in your house (especially one that interacts with your phone), then connecting it to a opener will lower the risk of someone breaking into your house through a garage door.
What to Consider?
Before you buy a smart opener, make sure to pay attention to the following factors:
- First of all, make sure that it is compatible with the system you currently use in your house. For example, if you have a Genie opener, you will probably not need to replace it, but if you have a Chamberlain one.
- Also, if you are using a model with lights in your garage door, make sure that the smart garage opener you are looking at also supports it. Some models require a special kit to be installed for that, and some don’t.
- If you have an opener, you can still buy a smart one with a kit that makes it work on an old system. It is convenient, but make sure that the equipment works well.
- Next, check the battery life – if your smart garage door opener is battery-powered, make sure that it lasts long and is easy to replace. Also, pay attention to the charging time – if you are looking for a device that provides fast charging, then make sure to check what’s the maximum charging time on the device.
- And lastly, check the app – some of these devices have bad interfaces that are hard to work with, so check the reviews on them before hitting “buy” – often enough, there’s also an app for your computer that can be used when connecting it to your device.
Conclusion
Smart garage door openers are definitely worth it. Not only can they open and close your door from anywhere, but they can also save your time and effort by making it easier for you to access your garage. Getting one will also increase your home security.
On the other hand, getting a smart opener is a significant investment. Due to the technology they use, such devices can cost even up to $300. And don’t forget about the costs of installation. Of course, the prices may vary depending on the quality and brand of your opener. Still, you should expect to pay at least $500 for the device and installation.
However, once you consider all the benefits coming with installing one, that price doesn’t look overly expensive, does it?
© Copyright 2021 Antonia, All rights Reserved. Written For: Tidylife
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