Replacing your old garage door opener or buying a new one can cost anything between $218 and $511. The overall cost will depend on other factors like your location, labor costs, the type of garage door opener, etc. Local Garage Door Repair estimates the national average for this kind of project to be $356.

Please note that you may spend more or below the national average to replace or buy a new garage door opener. However, is the purchase worth it?

Many homeowners will say Yes, and for all the right reasons. A fully functioning garage door opener introduces convenience and added security. It allows you to open your garage door from the comfort of your home or within your car. You can also control some from your smartphone via an app. The convenience, peace of mind, and extra security offered are worth it for many.

Having considered what your life may look like without a fully-functioning garage door opener, you’d agree that replacing or buying a new unit is worth it. In the next part of this article, we explore the factors that can influence the overall garage door opener replacement or installation cost.

Factors affecting garage door opener installation or replacement cost

Although the national average is pegged at $356, there’s a high chance you might spend more than this to install or replace your garage door opener.

Below are the factors that influence the cost.

Labor Cost

Labor cost is one of the most important considerations when budgeting for a garage door opener replacement or installation. Depending on your location, you may pay between $65 and $85 an hour to have a garage door technician work on your opener.

Depending on other factors, the entire replacement or installation process can take between two and six hours. Garage doors taller than 7 feet may need an extension kit to ensure proper functionality. The extension kit can cost anything from $50.

It is always advisable to speak to three or more garage door technicians to understand what they charge.

Type

Garage door openers are available in different types. The common options are chain, belt, screw, and direct-drive openers. Each type costs a little differently from the others and has its peculiar benefits. You can contact your garage door technician to discuss what each option cost.

You can also seek recommendations on the best type of garage door opener based on your garage door type. Knowing the recommended option will help you budget better.

Brand, Model, and Horsepower Rating

Similar to buying a car, your garage door opener costs differently based on the brand, model, and horsepower rating. The more powerful the opener is, the more expensive it is likely to be.

There are also some premium brands and manufacturers on the market that cost a lot more than others. Be ready to pay good money if you’re looking for a quiet and high horsepower garage door opener. You’ll spend less on a noisier chain-driven garage door from just any brand.

Should you consider horsepower when selecting your garage door opener? Yes. The horsepower refers to the opener’s capacity to lift your garage door. Heavier garage doors require higher horsepower to function effectively. Buying a lower horsepower rating for your large or heavy garage door will strain your opener.

Parts 

The cost of buying additional parts may also influence the cost of your garage door opener installation. Some of the additional parts you may need to buy include belts, weights, springs, cables, and tracks.

Additional costs and considerations

Although the above factors play a major role in your garage door opener replacement or installation cost, the below factors can also further influence overall costs.

Removing the existing garage door opener

The old and damaged garage door opener has to be removed before it is replaced. This may mean extra hours for the technician to work and more money to pay. The technician may also charge extra to remove the damaged opener before commencing installation.

It is best to ask your garage door contractor if they charge a removal fee.

Remotes with keypads

Garage door keypads don’t come free. They cost about $30 to $60 to replace. Homeowners may also decide to upgrade their receivers to support Wi-Fi connectivity at a cost.

Garage door sensor

The garage door sensor is one of the most important components on it. There are two types of sensors, Laser and automatic reverse sensors. Each type costs differently, and some garage doors come with both installed on them.

Lighting 

Some new model garage doors come with lighting to improve security around the home. Replacing this can cost between $50 and $100, depending on the garage door make and model.

Electrical Wiring 

If your garage door electrical wiring is bad, there’s a high chance that you may need to change it. You can expect to spend between $40 and $100 on this.

Overall, it is best to consult with two or more garage door technicians, collect detailed quotes, and plan your budget accordingly.

By Manali