June 20, 2016

How to replace a garage door opener battery

How to replace a garage door opener battery

This DIY repair guide explains how to replace the back-up battery in a garage door opener. Located in the motor unit, the battery supplies power to the opener if the power goes out. Test the battery yearly according to the instructions in your owner's manual. If the battery status light indicates a low battery charge when you unplug the garage door opener to test the battery, plug the garage door opener back in and see if the battery charges within 48 hours. If the battery hasn't charged after 48 hours, replace it with the manufacturer-approved replacement part.

This basic repair procedure works for common Craftsman, LiftMaster and Chamberlain garage door openers.

Quick links
Tools required
Step ladder
Phillips screwdriver
Work gloves
Repair difficulty
Time required
15 minutes or less
Repair difficulty
Time required
15 minutes or less
Replacing the battery on a garage door opener

This video explains how to replace the battery on a garage door opener.

Instructions

  1. 01.

    Disconnect power

    Use a step ladder to access the garage door opener’s power cord and motor unit.

    Unplug the garage door opener.

    PHOTO: Unplug the garage door opener.

    PHOTO: Unplug the garage door opener.

  2. 02.

    Remove the battery

    Open the light cover.

    Remove the battery compartment cover screw and then remove the cover.

    Pull the battery out and disconnect the wires.

    PHOTO: Disconnect the battery wires.

    PHOTO: Disconnect the battery wires.

  3. 03.

    Install the new battery

    Connect the wires to the new battery.

    Insert the battery into the compartment.

    Reinstall the battery compartment cover and secure it with the screw.

    PHOTO: Reinstall the battery compartment cover.

    PHOTO: Reinstall the battery compartment cover.

  4. 04.

    Reconnect electrical power

    Plug in the garage door opener.

Warning: Undertaking repairs or maintenance to appliances or power equipment can be hazardous. Should you choose to undertake repairs or maintenance, you are assuming the risk of injury to your person or property. In an effort to reduce the risk, use the proper tools and safety equipment noted in the applicable guide and follow all instructions. Do not proceed until you are confident that you understand all of the steps and are capable of completing the repair. Some repairs or maintenance, however, should only be performed by a qualified technician.

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These step-by-step repair guides will help you safely fix what’s broken on your garage door opener.

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