
Is Your Garage Door Opener Motor Acting Up?
Your garage door motor is the heart of your garage door system. When it starts failing, you may notice slower operation, unusual noises, or even a complete failure to open or close. If you’re dealing with any of these issues in Richmond, it might be time to consider a garage door opener motor repair or replacement.
At A1 Door Company, we’ve helped homeowners across Richmond—from the West End to Midlothian—fix and upgrade their garage door opener motors. Here’s how to tell if yours needs attention.

Signs Your Garage Door Opener Motor Needs Repair
- Your garage door is slow to open or close. A sluggish response could mean the motor is wearing out.
- You hear grinding or squeaking noises. This might indicate internal motor damage or a belt that needs replacement.
- The garage door reverses unexpectedly. This could be due to sensor malfunctions, wiring issues, or a failing motor.
- Remote controls aren’t working consistently. If your opener isn’t responding, the motor could be failing or struggling with connectivity.
Repair vs. Replace: Which One is Right for You?
If your garage door motor is relatively new and just needs a minor fix—like sensor realignment or a circuit board replacement—a repair might be all you need. But if your system is 10+ years old, replacement could be a smarter investment.
Many Richmond homeowners opt for smart garage door motors when replacing their openers. These advanced motors come with features like Wi-Fi connectivity, battery backup, and smartphone control, ensuring your garage door functions smoothly even during power outages.
Trust Richmond’s Garage Door Experts
At A1 Door Company, we specialize in garage door opener motor repair and replacement. Whether you need a quick fix or want to upgrade to the latest technology, we’re here to help. Contact us today for a free inspection and keep your garage running smoothly!

Comparison Chart: Top 3 LiftMaster Garage Door Opener Models for 2025
Feature | 98022 (Elite Series Wall Mount) | 87504-267 (Secure View Belt Drive) | 8155W (Contractor Series Belt Drive) |
Type | Wall-Mount (Jackshaft) | Ceiling-Mount (Belt Drive) | Ceiling-Mount (Belt Drive) |
Motor | 24V DC, Ultra-Quiet | ¾ HP DC, Quiet Operation | ½ HP AC, Standard Performance |
Max Door Weight | Up to 850 lbs | Up to 750 lbs | Up to 500 lbs |
Max Door Height | 14 ft (with extension kits) | 7 ft (extendable to 10 ft with kits) | 7 ft (extendable to 10 ft with kits) |
Wi-Fi Connectivity | Built-in Wi-Fi with myQ App | Built-in Wi-Fi with myQ App | Built-in Wi-Fi with myQ App |
Battery Backup | Yes (Integrated) | Yes (Integrated) | No |
Special Features | – No cable tension monitor- Automatic Garage Door Lock- myQ Remote LED Light (200W) | – Built-in Camera- 2-Way Audio- LED Corner-to-Corner Lighting (1500 lumens) | – Basic Security+ 2.0- Economical design |
Noise Level | Ultra-Quiet | Very Quiet | Quiet |
Smart Home Integration | myQ, Google Assistant, IFTTT (with subscription) | myQ, Google Assistant, IFTTT (with subscription) | myQ, Google Assistant, IFTTT (with subscription) |
Ideal For | Space-saving needs, heavy doors, quiet operation | Smart home enthusiasts, security-focused | Budget-conscious, standard garage doors |
Warranty | 5 years (motor), 1 year (battery/accessories) | 5 years (motor), 1 year (battery/accessories) | 4 years (motor), 1 year (accessories) |
Approx. Price Range | $550 – $650 | $450 – $550 | $250 – $350 |
Key Notes:
- 98022 (Elite Series Wall Mount)
- Replacement for the 8500W, launched in 2023, with a sleek all-black design and improved installation ease (no cable tension monitor).
- Best for garages with limited ceiling space or unique setups (e.g., cathedral ceilings).
- High lifting capacity makes it suitable for oversized or heavy doors.
- 87504-267 (Secure View Belt Drive)
- A premium ceiling-mounted option with advanced smart features like a built-in camera and two-way audio.
- Ideal for homeowners wanting enhanced security and lighting (corner-to-corner LED system).
- Slightly lower lifting capacity than the 98022 but excels in smart home integration.
- 8155W (Contractor Series Belt Drive)
- An affordable, reliable option for standard residential use.
- Lacks battery backup and advanced features but offers solid performance with Wi-Fi connectivity.
- Best for budget-conscious users with lighter garage doors.
This chart highlights the diversity in LiftMaster’s 2025 lineup, catering to different needs: space optimization (98022), smart security (87504-267), and cost-effectiveness (8155W).