When you need a garage door motor repair or replacement in Vancouver, it’s critical to understand whether you need an overhead door opener with an AC (alternating current) motor or a DC (direct current) motor. In AC the current changes direction while travel further distances and the voltage can be bumped up and down.
AC power utilizes transformers to control the amount of power delivered and the direction the power flows.
AC power is a stronger current, but it cannot be stored.
In DC power, the power only flows in one direction.
DC power is found in batteries and the voltage is constant and cannot be changed.
DC power does not travel very far without losing its strength and DC power can be stored.
AC motors are usually larger, heavier and noisier
DC motors for overhead doors were rare 10 years back, but today they’re used widely. This comparison will help you in making a decision in the event your overhead door opener has to be replaced.
Noise level:
When your overhead door is driven by an AC motor, it’ll be jumpy when it starts up & moves the door along the tracks as well as more rough on when the door touching the floor. A DC motor runs at a lower noise level, and the sound difference is remarkable. If you’ve a living area or bedroom above or by the side of your garage, a garage door that runs with less sound may be your ideal option.
Starting & stopping functions:
An AC motor starts with a bang & stops with a bang. Gradually, this may lead to many small issues and even damages like hardware loosening or excess wear and tear on the bottom of the overhead door as well as on the top section where the operator arm contact the door.
A DC overhead door opener motor doesn’t prompt an unexpected stop. Rather, it offers a soft start & soft stop. This can be useful if you’ve a door are heavy and also if they are very light
Extra features:
Both AC & DC motor support additional features for the overhead door opener, but DC motors are more advanced, modern and have more additional features. If you wish to go with an LED for corner to corner lighting in your garage space, DC motor will be your choice.
If you wish a battery backup in the event of a power breakdown, DC power sources support the use of a battery.
Both kinds of motors support smart phone apps that let you control or screen your garage from a smart device.
Conclusion:
AC & DC motors in garage door openers do the same task efficiently, but as we’ve discussed, alternating current motors are large and employ more powers. In our point of view, Direct Current motors are the future of garage door openers. They’ll allow for the adding of advanced features that homeowners will be seeking in new garage door openers.
We’re obsessed with technology and this obsession is only going to get worse. DC motors are improving regularly with smaller motors supplying the required power to close and open the overhead doors. The technology is also augmenting the lifespan of direct current motors with minor or no maintenance. So, DC motors in garage door openers are going to be the future, regardless of the fact that they are a bit pricier than their AC counterparts.