top of page
Search

Automatic Door Openers vs. Automatic Door Closers

Updated: Oct 25, 2022

The Pros, the Cons, which one do you really need and how to choose the right one


With such a wide array of automatic door openers and closers on the market, how do you know which one is right for your needs?

There are pros and cons to both automatic door openers and automatic door closers. Automatic door openers are great for people who have a hard time opening doors, such as the elderly or those who are handicapped. Automatic door closers are great for people who want to keep their doors secure, as they close the door behind them automatically. In this article, we will explore the benefits and drawbacks of each type to help make your decision easier.




What is an automatic door opener

An automatic door opener is a device that opens a door automatically, usually by remote control, sensor or handicap push button. Automatic door openers are popular in businesses, common areas and residential buildings, as they are convenient for people who have a hard time opening doors. Automatic door openers come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and can be installed on most existing doors. One of the benefits of an automatic door opener is that it is easy to use. All you need to do is press a button and the door will open automatically. This is great for people who have a hard time opening doors, such as the elderly, parents with strollers or those who are handicapped. Automatic door openers are also popular in busy businesses, as they allow customers to enter without having to wait for someone to open the door for them.

An automatic door opener is connected to the door with an arm that runs along the top of the door. The arm is connected to a motor, which is controlled by a remote control, sensor or handicap push button. When the button is pressed, the motor will activate and open the door automatically. Automatic door openers can be used on most types of doors, including single doors, swing doors, commercial doors and glass doors.

Automatic door openers require an active power connection.



Automatic Glass Door


The pros of an Automatic Door Openers


Easy to use

One of the benefits of an automatic door opener is that it is easy to use. All you need to do is press a button and the door will open automatically. or even better, they will open automatically triggered by a motion sensor. Automatic door openers are also popular in busy businesses, as they allow customers to enter without having to wait for someone to open the door for them.


Automatic Door Openers have many features

Automatic door openers come with a variety of features, including speed control, always open/always closed feature, opening control. They can be integrated to almost anything, from sensors and buttons, to access control systems and alarms.

Door openers can also work with timers, opening codes (keypad), and with card readers (Fobs).


Energy efficient

One of the benefits of automatic door openers is that they are energy efficient. Automatic door openers use a low-voltage motors in most cases which consumes a fraction of the energy of high-energy door openers, making them a more environmentally friendly option and a safer option.


Safe to use

Automatic doors are very safe to use. They are also a safe option for residential buildings and businesses, as they conform to all safety regulations. They are UL listed in most cases and the majority of operators are manufactured in North America and meet all of the North-American standards and requirements.


Automatic Doors can be installed on most existing doors

Automatic door openers can be installed on almost any existing door, with little to no modification. This is great for businesses who want to upgrade their doors without having to replace them entirely. In fact, an automatic door opener is an add-on to existing doors and not a door replacement.


Automatic Door Openers also act as automatic doors closer

An Automatic door closer also acts as a door closer and closing by spring power after a pre-programmed time period which is usually 6-8 seconds.

It can also be programmed to close when the gap is cleared with a motion sensor.



The cons of Automatic Door Openers


It can be expensive

Automatic door openers can be expensive, depending on their brand and the features you need. They typically start at around $2000 and can go up to $20,000 or more, depending on the brand and features. However, automatic door openers are a great investment, as they are very durable and reliable and in most cases come with 2 to 5 years manufacture warranty.


It may not work with all types of doors

Although automatic doors can work with most types of doors, an automatic door opener typically requires a swinging door to work, and may not be compatible with some doors. There are some models that are designed specifically for sliding glass doors, but these are not as common. If you have a door that is not compatible with an automatic door opener, you may need to have a custom unit installed.

|Most common applications for a standard automatic doors are pull right, pull left, push right and push left.


Automatic Door Openers require electricity to operate

Automatic door openers require an active power connection in order to operate. This means that they must be plugged into an outlet in order to function. Automatic door openers use a low-voltage motor, which means that they consume a fraction of the energy of high-energy door openers. but they do require a connection to an high-voltage power outlet.


What is an automatic door closer

An automatic door closer is a device that helps to close a door automatically. They are often used in businesses and residential, as they can help to keep the door closed and secure. Automatic door closers are also beneficial in residential buildings, as they can help to keep the door closed and prevent drafts.

Automatic door closers are not an electric devices and they don’t require any batteries or external power source. The automatic door closer consists of a spring-loaded mechanism that automatically closes the door after it has been opened. Their closing speed and latching speed can be programmed to close slowly or quickly, depending on the needs of the user.

Automatic door closers are available in a variety of different sizes and styles to suit your specific needs. They are also available in different finishes to match your existing doors.



Door Closer installed on an aluminium glass door


The pros of automatic door closers


Affordable

Automatic door closers are a more affordable option than automatic door openers. They typically start at around $200 and can go up to $800, depending on the brand and features. Automatic door closers are very durable, reliable and last for many years.


Easy to install

Most automatic door openers are easy to install and can be installed by a professional locksmith or door technician in less than an hour. This makes them a great option for businesses who want to upgrade their doors without having to replace them entirely.


Automatic Door Closers don't require connection to power

Automatic door closers do not require a connection to power in order to operate. This means that they can be installed in any location, regardless of whether or not there is an outlet nearby. They don't consume any energy, so they're an environmentally-friendly option.


Small and space efficient

Automatic door closers are small space efficient devices that can be installed on almost any door. They are very unobtrusive and don't take up a lot of space. The arm is usually installed on the frame of the door while the heavier part is mounted to the door itself.



Concealed door closer


The cons of automatic door closers


Automatic Door Closers are not suitable for all door types

Although automatic door closers can be a great option for many businesses and homes, they are not suitable for all door types. Some doors, such as commercial glass doors, are not compatible with an automatic door closer. If you have a door that is not compatible with an automatic door closer, you may need to purchase a door with a concealed door closer or have a custom unit installed.


Automatic Door Closer Installation can be messy

Installing an automatic door closer can be a messy process if not being performed by a door professional, as it requires drilling into the door frame and securing the unit to the wall.

This can damage the door frame and cause holes or cracks.

Once an automatic door closer is installed, it may require occasional adjustments to ensure that it is functioning properly. This may include adjusting the spring tension or making sure that the arm is properly aligned with the door.


Which automatic door is better for you

There are a few things to consider when deciding which type of automatic door is better for you. First, you need to decide if you need an automatic door opener or an automatic door closer. Automatic door openers require electricity to operate, while automatic door closers do not. Automatic openers are required for accessibility, they are ADA compliant and they are great for people with limited mobility, they open and close doors while door closers can perform one action only.

Essentially, the main difference between the two types of automatic doors is that openers have motors while closers don’t. Door closer serves one purpose only, close your door while the door opener is a smart device that can open, close and be programmed for many other features.

If after reading this article you are still unsure which automatic door is best for you or If you would like more information about automatic door openers or automatic door closers, contact us. We would be happy to answer any of your questions and help you find the best automatic door option for your needs.




145 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Utilizing automatic doors for store security

The retail landscape is continually evolving, driven by technological advancements and the changing expectations of customers who seek a blend of security and convenience. One innovative solution gain

bottom of page