Garage door openers have two power options — alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC). AC currents are strong and can change direction, and DC currents flow in one direction and can be stored. Though AC and DC garage door motors both convert electricity into motion to open and close the garage door, the way they do it differs. Know the features and benefits of each garage door opener type so you can decide which kind your garage needs.
Request an Estimate Click to Call
AC Garage Door Opener
AC motors are the original garage door opener solution and have been in the industry longer than DC motors. AC motors have a lot of components in their large chassis, including a rotor and stator. In an AC garage door opener, the energy comes from the coils wrapped around the output shaft, which generate magnetic fields. Transformers control the direction and power of the current, which is what opens and closes the garage door.
AC garage door motors usually have a chain drive, which can wear out due to friction over time. Still, these motors have a durable build and few maintenance requirements.
Typical AC garage door opener features include:
- Basic functionality: These openers have simple mechanics that focus on reliability and straightforward operation. They generally don’t come with battery backups and other advanced technology.
- Higher lifting capacity: AC motors offer rugged construction and longevity. They can handle frequent use and are less susceptible to wear — even when lifting heavier doors.
- Cost-effectiveness: AC openers generally cost less upfront than DC alternatives. They’re a budget-friendly option for homeowners looking for a basic solution.
DC Garage Door Opener
DC garage door openers entered the market as an alternative to AC motors. DC motors have shafts, bearings, gears and a gearbox in a small, lightweight chassis. The power comes from a generated source of power that provides constant voltage, like batteries. An electronic circuit board controls the amount of power the motor gets. This configuration gives you better control of speed variation, control and torque.
DC motors have a long-lasting brushless design that reduces noise during operation. These openers are also most likely to have a belt drive, which offers smoother performance and less wear compared to models with chain drives.
Other standout features of garage door openers with DC motors include:
- Soft opening and closing: The electronic circuit board and variable speed enable gradual opening and closing that reduces wear on the door.
- Battery backup: Many DC openers come with battery backup options to offer power and peace of mind during outages.
- Smart technology integration: DC openers are often compatible with smart home systems for remote control and monitoring.
- Energy-saving modes: These openers minimize energy consumption when they’re not in use, which means they can provide long-term savings.
AC vs. DC Garage Door Opener Differences
Both types of garage door openers have pros and cons. Their primary differences lie in their:
- Noise levels: DC openers have the advantage in this category. Their brushless motors operate quietly with minimal vibration, while AC openers have mechanical components that produce more noise during operation.
- Energy efficiency: DC openers are also more efficient because they use less power and adjust their speed based on the weight of the load. Energy consumption is lower as a result. In contrast, AC openers run at a constant speed and use the same energy no matter the load.
- Control: DC openers often come with advanced control systems that allow for smoother operation and precise stopping. AC models tend to have simpler control mechanisms.
- Smoothness: Since DC garage door openers have variable speed options, they allow for smoother starts and stops compared to the fixed speed of AC openers.
Should You Buy an AC or DC Garage Door Motor?
Consider the unique features of each motor to decide whether you want an AC or DC garage door opener and which best fits your needs. Essential considerations include:
- Technology: If you want to use new technology, like an app on your phone to control the garage door, you need a DC garage door opener. These types of motors are modifiable to suit these components.
- Power: Both DC and AC garage door openers offer sufficient horsepower to operate residential garage doors. If you think your garage door needs more power, AC motors have a stronger power current.
- Brand: You may want to stick to what you know and buy a brand you’ve used before. Look at the models your preferred brand offers, and buy a garage door motor with the specifications you need.
- Security: Garage door automation technology includes keyless entry, programmable settings and app-controlled features, so you can monitor and control your garage door no matter where you are. These features are more compatible with DC garage door openers.
Shop Garage Door Openers at Consolidated Garage Doors
If it’s time to buy a new garage door opener for your home, come to Consolidated Garage Doors. Since 1976, we’ve offered SOLID SERVICE, SOLID SALES and SOLID PRODUCTS for homeowners in St. Charles, Batavia, Geneva and surrounding areas. As an Authorized Dealer for LiftMaster®, we can help you find top-quality garage door openers with the features you want. Browse our residential garage door openers and contact us today.