Torsion Garage-Door Openers

Torsion garage-door openers are most quiet

While chain, belt and screw-drive garage-door openers remain the most popular, the iDrive for Torsion garage-door opener from Wayne-Dalton is generating some interest. The iDrive for Torsion's (*Est. $300) main box is a relatively small device that is mounted just above the garage door and directly to the torsion spring shaft, also known as the counterbalance. It lifts the door using its existing torsion springs, which eliminates the need for an overhead track and motor. The result is an extra six or eight inches in ceiling clearance -- helpful for owners of boats or RVs. Since the track is also the source of a lot of the noise associated with garage-door openers, the iDrive for Torsion is also quieter than other openers. The ability to program in a pet access height of six to 30 inches and a particularly secure rolling security code scheme are some other appreciated features.

Unfortunately, while some are pleased, we've seen enough unhappy owners to give us pause. Though the manufacturer claims that installation is doable by a do-it-yourselfer, reports from owners say otherwise. The picture unhappy users paint is that installation needs to be near perfect for the system to work reliably, and we've also seen reports of some long-term reliability problems. Others have voiced frustration with service and support. On the plus side, the iDrive for Torsion does carry a life-of-the-home warranty.

If you need the extra height for your SUV or boat, or if you're particularly security-conscious and/or have pets that access your house through the garage, the iDrive for Torsion might be a good option. However, given the problems reported, it's probably a good idea to spring for professional installation, and the iDrive for Torsion already costs more than other garage-door openers. Competing models from Genie and Chamberlain might not be as exciting and unobtrusive, but installation is simpler, and these current garage-door openers are still quieter than older models.