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padFrequently Asked Questions

1) How do I determine which remote I need?

We need to know the brand and model of the remote you need to replace. In some instances, we will need the frequency and the number of dip switches, if any. All that information should be on your remote, if it isn't, locate your receiver (small box with a wire protruding out located on or near your garage operator), you should be able to access the information. If all fails, call us!

2) How do I code my remote?

It's very simple, all our products come with a set of instructions. The coding varies on the type of system you are using and is clearly explained on the instructions.

3) My garage door opener is very old, can you still replace it with a new remote?

A lot of older models are replaceable, however, depending on the type of system, you may not be able to replace your remote: if your remote does not contain dip switches (and is at least 15 years old), you will need a new receiver. A receiver is much less expensive than replacing the entire operator and is easily installed (most residential receivers have 3 connections), clear and easy instructions and schematics are included.

4) Is there a universal remote that can operate any garage or gate opener?

There is no such thing as a remote that can operate any garage or gate opener. There are however, remotes that can operate on different frequencies, functioning with different brands such as the Skylink Universal remote or the Remocon model RMC-600.

5) I need certain parts for my garage/gate operator, can I purchase them from you?

Absolutely, and you will save a lot in the process! You will need to contact us for that, for special ordering and prices.

6) Are batteries and clips included?

Yes, batteries and clips are included, in some cases, key chains and velcro attachments.

7) I keep hearing about learning technology? What is that?

Many of the older remotes use dip switches to communicate with the receiver. This system uses the same code each time to open and close your garage door or gate. "Code grabbers" can use sophisticated devices gaining access to your property and home.

One way to prevent this is to use the new learning code technology. A remote transmitter with this new technology uses a radio frequency to transmit a new security code every time it is used. It randomly selects from 100 billion codes, and then uses code rotating technology, offering more protection than remotes using dip switches.

Liftmaster calls this technology "Security +", Stanley calls it "Secure Code" and Genie calls it "Intellicode". These units are easy to program. Just read the programming instructions, however, usually it involves pressing the button on the remote at the same time that you press the button on the receiver. Simple and safe.

8) My garage door opener is smoking and won't open. What's wrong with it?

You most likely have a burned drive belt, although there is the possibility of having a burned circuit board or capacitor. All are easily replaced.

9) I hear a hum coming from the garage door opener and it won't open. What is the problem?!?

A humming operator is usually the outcome of a burned out capacitor.

10) What's the average lifespan of a garage door opener?

Average lifespans of 8 - 10 years can be expected, although there are operators out there which last as little as 5 years yet as long as 25 years (or more!). If your operator is getting old, consider replacing it with an up-to-date machine with all the latest safety features.

11) Opener Does Not Work

A. Make sure power cord is plugged into a properly grounded 3-prong 120 volt outlet. Plug in a drill or other electrical tool to test for power.

B. If opener has been cycled several times, the motor overload protector may be activated. Wait approximately 10 minutes for the motor to cool and try again.

C. If a four-function Wall Console is being used, make sure the Vacation Switch is in the "UNLOCKED" position. The power unit cannot be activated or programmed with the Vacation Switch in the "LOCKED" position.

D. If door is severely out of balance, the opener may not be able to exert enough force to move it. Make sure all locks are removed. Pull the Emergency Disconnect Cord to release the door from the opener. Check to see if the open will operate if not connected to the door. If opener now operates, review "Door Balance Test" in you Owner's Manual.

12) Hand Held Transmitter Does Not Work or Has Short Range

A. Review your coding instructions.

B. The battery in your transmitter may be dead or weak. Replace the battery with the same type.

C. Try moving or coiling the antenna wire on the opener.

D. CB radios, microwave ovens, computer equipment, powerful communication signals, and other door openers may cause undesirable interference and shorten radio range.

13) Pushbutton Does Not Work

A. Make sure the pushbutton wires are not touching each other at the rear of the opener or at the pushbutton.

B. If the wires are not touching each other and the problem still exists, disconnect the wires from the back of the opener and "short" across the two pushbutton screws using a key or screwdriver. If opener now operates, the pushbutton wires are probably shorted or broken.

14) Lights Flash on Opener

A. This may be caused by activating the obstruction system that is controlled by the open or close force adjustment on the rear of the opener. If it requires more force to move the door than the opener can supply, the lights on the opener will blink. A common cause is a poorly operating door or an obstruction. Review "Door Balance Test" and "Open and Close Force Adjustments" in the manual.

B. If the beam sensor is not aligned or working correctly, the door can only be closed by holding the wall-mounted pushbutton. The transmitter cannot be used to close the door. The light on the opener will flash and the door will reverse and open if the pushbutton is not held until the door is fully closed.

C. If something obstructs the door while closing, it will reverse and open - lights will flash. If something obstructs the door while opening, it will stop - lights will flash.

15) Door closes and then opens when it reaches the floor

A. Is a rake handle, garden hose, snow, ice, etc. obstructing the door? Remove the obstruction then try closing the door again.

B. Due to climatic conditions many concrete floors will heave or sink. Turn the (small black) close travel adjustment 1/4 turn opposite the direction of the arrow on the cover, then review the "Close Position" and "Entrapment Test" instructions in the manual.

16) Excessive Tube Bow

A. Check to see that the powerhead is securely mounted and the door operates freely. Review "Door Balance Tests: in the manual. Is something obstruction the door?

B. Review the "Close Position" and "Entrapment Test" instructions in the manual.

17) Opener Activates by Itself

A. Carefully check the wiring to the pushbutton and electric key switch (if used). An intermittent "short" caused by a staple or frayed wire may be the problem.

18) Light Stays On

A. The light time delay on the opener will keep the light on for approximately 4-1/2 minutes after the system has be activated, then will turn the light off automatically.

B. If the opener has a worklight switch (which is supplied only with a four-function wall console), slide the switch to "OFF" position.

C. If the opener has a pedestrian switch (which is supplied only with a four-function wall console), the light will stay on for 4-1/2 minutes after the pedestrian door has been opened.

19) Not Enough Open or Close Travel Adjustment

A. If you operated the power unit before it was completely installed or if you did not position the traveler the correct distance from the tube support, the limits and traveler may be out of synchronization.

B. Turn off power, remove and relocate traveler by disconnecting chain from sprocket, re-assemble and try adjusting again.

20) When I buy a remote, do I have to program it or does it work right out of the box?

Remotes do not work out of the box. Please read the programming instructions and program it. It's very easy to do!

21) Can I use WD-40 on my machine to lubricate it?

No, you will burn your machine and will need to replace several parts such as the capacitor and possibly the circuit board. In order to lubricate your machine, please use the manufacturer's suggested products. Click Here for Suggested Lubricants


22) Do you carry older parts?

Yes, please write to us with your model numbers. As an example, we carry all Genie's available products and parts. Over the years Genie has manufactured under several name brands such as Blue Max, Alliance, Lift-a-Door, Pro-Max, Hercules, Norelco, OverHead Door, Intellicode or Code Dodger. If you don't see the particular part you are looking for, please contact us or email us. If that part is available, we can get it! We offer secure online ordering and FREE technical help and same day shipping. We have a huge inventory and are always in stock.

23) Any other questions?

Please contact us and we will do our best to help you.



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