Best Jackshaft Garage Door Openers For Your Garage Door [Updated 2024]

If you are a garage owner, then you probably understand how critical it’s to have a reliable and safe garage door opener.

Today, we are going to look at the best Jackshaft garage door opener- most commonly referred to as wall mount or side mount garage door opener. You can also review our discussion on wall vs ceiling mount garage door openers.

6 Best Jackshaft Garage Door Opener List

1. The Liftmaster 8500 – Has a built-in battery
2. The LiftMaster 2-Pack– Smooth, fast and silent operation
3. The Chamberlain Group B1381– Has advanced technology
4. The LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series – Best value choice but suffers incompatibility issues
5. The Chamberlain RJO20– is best for space-saving
6. The Liftmaster 8500 Elite Series myQ Enabled – Requires a professional to install

What is a Jackshaft garage door opener?

Most residential homes have a trolley bar system mounted on the ceiling and uses chains with a track and rail system to open and close the door.

However, a jackshaft garage door opener is a different machine-style driving shaft usually connected by belts and gears on either the left or right side of the garage door opener that moves the door up and down.

Previously used in commercial doors, jackshaft door openers are now being used more and more in residential homes.

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Why you need a Jackshaft garage door opener

It all comes down to the architectural design of your home. With the advancement of home designs and styles, it is becoming more and more difficult to install a ceiling mount garage door opener.

For instance, how do you install a ceiling-based opener in a house with a sloping or a cathedral type of ceiling? This is where the jackshaft garage door opener comes in handy.

You mount it on the walls, and you are good to go. Some homeowners like the cool and luxurious feel of the jackshaft opener.

Jackshaft openers have a similar horsepower to the trolley-based openers and work on large garage doors that reach heights of up to 4 meters or doors with a total area of 180 square feet.

Jackshaft openers are more preferable because they have modern and better security features and are quieter.

When to choose a jackshaft opener

Garage doors have very simple lives. Pretty much of what they do is move up and down over and over for years. Eventually, they get tired and suddenly stop working as efficiently as they used to. In most cases, that simple function usually calls for reasonably simple repairs. In other cases, though even the most reliable old garage doors fail and need major repairs

As a homeowner, before you decide to change or install a jackshaft opener, you should understand all the different types, the different benefits they can bring to your home, and their long-term functionalities. With the latest advancements in the industry, several garage openers come in different styles and designs.

Jackshaft opener requirements

If you need to install a jackshaft garage door opener, you will need plenty of space. Your garage should meet the following requirements:

• The space from the left and right sides of the door should be at least 8 inches
• The space above the door should be 3 inches’ minimum
• A torsion-type spring lift system. How this works is that the shaft holds onto the spring placed in the housing of the opener which turns using the opener when you open and close the door.
• Electrical power output at least 6 feet from the garage door
• Enough space to fit the 16.25-inch opener housing

6 Best Jackshaft Garage Door Opener Reviewed

Now that you have a perfect understanding of jackshaft garage door openers, let’s look at some of our top six best jackshaft garage door openers.

The below list has been arrived at by considering the key features that make a garage door opener of any kind stand out. These include security features, technology, safety features, horsepower ratings, accessibility and durability. We’ve also considered the noise levels.

Below is an in-depth analysis of each garage door opener. 

The Liftmaster 8500 Wall Mount Garage Door Opener Package

The Liftmaster 8500 garage door opener is small, neat, quiet, easy to install, and comes at a very reasonable price. It is very sleek and saves space because of its design which mounts on the wall beside your garage door, freeing up space on the ceiling.

The Liftmaster 8500 comes with an auto-force feature that constantly monitors the door system and adjusts forces to temperature changes and a powerhead enclosed gear case that provides continuous lubrication and protection for smoother operation.

In the gearbox, there is a 6-foot power cord which makes connecting to a power source easier. There is also a 200 watts’ mountable light with adjustable light time delay. with a built internal battery, you do not have to worry about any power outbreaks. this battery is replaceable in case of any faults in the future.

It comes fully equipped with the myQ app that lets you electronically program the security codes links up with your smartphone. This way you receive notifications for any attempts to open your garage door and you can even set specific times to open and close the door

It comes with a remote control that has rolling code technology that is programmed by the installation technician in such a way that only your remote can open the door. This minimizes the chances of other people making a clone of the remote control and accessing the garage without your permission or in your absence.

There is a reverse safety system with sensing technology that stops the door from closing if contact is made with a person or an object. This is a very good feature in houses where there are children.

It comes with p3 motors for reliable, durable, and powerful performance.

What we liked most

• Quiet
• Affordable
• Easy to install
• The MyQ app is free
• The mountable light kit allows you to have lighting in your garage.
• The motor comes with a lifetime warranty
• space is freed up in your garage ceiling
• The auto-force feature.
• The auto-reverse system

What could be improved

• Incompatibility with roll-up doors.
• You need a power source near the front wall.
• The MyQ internet gateway is a must-have
• You need to have enough space

The LiftMaster 8500 2-Pack Garage Door Opener Side Mount Security+2.0 and MyQ technology compatible

This garage door is one of LiftMaster’s most advanced wall-mount garage door openers and can run for years and years without requiring maintenance once you install it. It optimizes garage ceiling space overhead, opening up possibilities to what your garage can become. You can create storage with extra space on the ceiling. it has an Integrated battery backup that ensures access even when the power’s out.

A safety sensor beam is installed in this garage opener that makes sure the garage door will not close if interrupted by a person or an object. This feature comes in handy especially for families who have small children playing in or near the garage.

The LiftMaster 2-Pack Garage Door Opener uses a Posilock security system that ensures the garage door is properly locked.

You can connect the system with your laptop and smartphone using the MyQ app. the 2 -Pack Opener also has a wireless keypad that can store codes for multiple doors which can be closed at the touch of one button.

You can set in a matter that allows you to get notifications on your smartphone or your email account. It also comes with an 829LM Door Monitor that can be placed inside the house to get notifications when the garage door opens and closes.

What we liked

• Mechanically adjustable sensors
• Smooth, fast, and silent operation
• Wireless remote control
• Posilock system
• 829LM Door Monitor
• MyQ compatible
• Safety sensor beam
• Auto-lubrication features

What can be improved

• The door has to be completely open for the auto lighting to work
• Different type of wiring is required
• No built-in battery backup

The Chamberlain Group B1381 Drive Garage Door Opener 

The Chamberlain Bright LED Smartphone-Controlled Garage Door Opener is a high-quality product with all the bells and whistles a homeowner could want.

To begin with, it’s got a built-in 3000 lumens LED light bright enough to illuminate your entire garage. It also comes with smartphone compatibility, you can open and close it from anywhere using the myQ app.

The Chamberlain Group B1381 is a powerful garage opener system that lifts your door effortlessly and smoothly.

It comes with a wireless keypad, 2 car remotes, a wall control panel, and two safety sensors. you don’t have to worry in case of a power outbreak as it comes with a backup battery.

The Remote control comes with the highest level of encryption Security 2.0. this prevents hacking and gives you peace of mind. with this easy to program remote controller you can open multiple doors.

It is compatible with most door openers made by Chamberlain and LiftMaster.

What we liked

• Mechanically adjustable sensors
• Smooth, fast, and silent operation
• Wireless remote control
• Posilock system
• 829LM Door Monitor
• MyQ compatible
• Safety sensor beam
• Auto-lubrication features

What can be improved

• Requires the door to be fully open to auto-light
• Different type of wiring is required
• No built-in battery backup

The LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series Jackshaft Operator Factory Direct

The LiftMaster 8500 Elite Series Factory Direct provides the same features as its predecessors but with major upgrades like Wi-Fi capability that work adequately with the MyQ app. With the installation of the home kit add-on, you can connect Liftmaster 8500 with Apple’s Siri to respond to voice commands.

Even more important than the wireless capability is its level of connectivity with the smartphone app that gives you the ability to operate the garage door from whatever location you are at.

And of course, you do not have to worry about the Liftmaster 8500 during power outages. You can opt for the battery backup option, you can operate with or without electricity.

During installation, you can choose to use set screws instead of the old dual clamp system.

What we liked most

• very Affordable
• long-lasting
• Security+2.0 rolling code technology
• the Automatic reversal feature
• P3 motors
• silent and efficient
• MyQ Technology

What can be improved

• Not compatible with any other garage doors
• Cables are small
• low-quality screws

The Chamberlain RJO20–Wall Mounted – myQ Smartphone Controlled – Ultra Quiet Space Saving

The Chamberlain RJ020 saves a lot of space when it comes to ceiling space. The wall mount system it uses eliminates any kind of noises, vibrations and frees up extra space on the ceiling that you can use as a storage unit

It occupies so little space and still meets the functionality of the usual more popular openers.

The Chamberlain RJ020 comes with an automated garage door lock that secures your garage door when closed. No manual attempt of any kind can open it.

There is also a remote light that you can put on and off via the MyQ app. You can also use the MyQ app for scheduled opening and closing, notifications on the status of the garage door.

The RJ020 has an object sensor that detects objects on the garage door’s path and will produce a warning sound as well as reverse the garage door to prevent injury and damage to your car and the garage door.

In case you cannot access the remote control, a multifunction wall control is available for manual override.

The Chamberlain RJO20 Garage Door Opener is very slim, it fits in small spaces, and can even be mounted on either side of the garage. You can even purchase this model with an installation guide which a local expert can come out and set it up for you

What we liked most

• Direct drive
• Saves Space
• Silent operation
• Smartphone control
• Security + 2.0 technology
• Automatic garage door lockdown
• For big and heavy garage doors
• Maximum protection
• Elimination of noise and vibrations

What can be improved

• No backup battery

The Liftmaster 8500 Elite Series myQ Enabled Garage Door Opener

Liftmaster 8500 Elite Series myQ Enabled Garage Door Opener comes with 2 remote controllers that have the MyQ app-enabled. The remote controllers work perfectly well with the smartphone app and the connectivity ability of the garage door opener.

There is also a remote light that you can place anywhere in the garage provided it is connected to a power source. the auto-light feature ensures that your garage lights immediately open the garage door. It works extremely well with the remote control and motion sensors.

The Liftmaster 8500 elite series has a very silent but very accurate motor. The Auto-force system slows down movement depending on railing length, temperature changes, and floor height.

This garage door opener comes with Security 2.0 technology.

What we liked

• super quiet operation
• very Durable
• safety is top-notch
• MyQ technology
• Auto-light
• Auto-reversal feature
• 2 remote controllers

What can be improved

• the Auto-lighting only works if the door is completely closed
• a different type of wiring is required for this garage opener.
• it has to be installed by a professional
• no built-in backup battery

Jackshaft Garage door opener buying guide

There is a variety of jackshaft Garage door openers available in the market. Choosing the best jackshaft garage door opener ensures you do not compromise on quality.

From the available garage door openers, it can be difficult to narrow it down and choose the best one. We came up with several factors that will help you in deciding the best garage door opener.

Below are some of the factors included in this garage door opener buying guide.

Horsepower

Jackshaft garage door openers come in three different sizes in terms of horsepower including ½ horsepower, ¾ horsepower, and 1/3 horsepower. It’s imperative to consider horsepower when thinking of choosing the best jackshaft garage door opener.

This choice depends on whether your garage door is a single or double and what material it’s made out of it can be light or extremely heavy.

If you are planning for an opener to lift double doors, then you need an opener that has at least ½ horsepower. This is commonly used and works best with doors that have an average weight.

The opener with 1/3 horsepower can lift a single door. This is the most affordable option with the least amount of power, and it typically doesn’t last as long as the others.

The opener with ¾ horsepower is the most expensive option out of the 3. it’s long-lasting and durable with a maximum amount of power. this is ideal for extremely heavy garage doors.

Speed

Depending on their different functionalities, the doors move at different speeds. The regular jackshaft opener opens at 7 inches per second.

Durability

Some people opt for a motor with lower horsepower at a cheaper price and worry about replacing it after a short period, while some people prefer to purchase a garage opener that will operate like new for many years to come.

Much of it depends on your budget and whether you’re okay with ordering a replacement after a few years.

Maintenance cost

Of course, any garage door that comes with more than one moving component is likely to require frequent servicing than those with minimal moving parts. Think of the maintenance costs and the availability of the spares before choosing a jackshaft garage door opener.

Safety and security

A jackshaft opener can be operated manually; this makes it safer in emergencies. Different models have different safety and security features available. some of them have safety reversal systems and safety sensors that minimize the number of accidents. A secure garage door opener does that for you by applying rolling code technology.

The rolling code technology works by making the remote and the opener choose a random code every time to communicate with each other. Other models have a security light that turns on Once you open the door. The security light can be helpful in case there is an intruder.

Warranty

The warranty period in garage door openers ranges from a few years to a lifetime. It is advisable to look for a longer warranty period and term which covers the motor of the garage opener and the parts.

Back-Up Battery

A battery backup is crucial to ensure that your garage door opener doesn’t fail you in case of a power outage. The control panel motion detector switches the light on for you so you can enter the garage when it’s lit.

Wi-Fi Enabled for Smart Homes 

For those with smart homes having Wi-Fi enabled garage door opener is a great idea. With apps like the MyQ app or you can manage your garage door remotely. MyQ app is also compatible with smart home technology. You’ll get notifications when the door opens up or closes down. You will also get warnings if you’ve left your door open and can close your door remotely or lock it down when you’re at work or on vacation

How does a Jackshaft garage door opener work?

Jackshaft garage door openers are attached directly to the front wall of the garage. There are no parts attached to the ceiling. These models also use cables attached directly to the garage door along with the pulleys and a rolling torsion bar to lift and lower the door. Many models of the computerized system have an automatic deadbolt that locks when the door closes for added safety.

Pros and cons of Jackshaft garage door openers

Gone are the days of loud clunky overhead pieces. In case your garage doesn’t have the adequate requirements for an overhead garage door opener, you should consider a wall-mounted jackshaft opener. if you’re looking for smooth and efficient long-term garage door functionality, this is the one for you. Jackshaft openers offer a wide range of unparalleled advantages

Pros of Jackshaft Garage Door Openers

If you’ve tried more than one garage door opener type, you are likely familiar with jackshaft garage door openers. If not, here are some of the advantages of using a jackshaft garage door opener type.

Extra storage space.

Jackshaft garage doors are mounted on the wall next to your garage door, which frees up the ceiling space. this space can be used as a storage unit

Operates in quiet 

The Jackshaft garage opener doesn’t make much noise during operation. This kind of opener uses direct current, it starts up slowly, speeds up for use, and then slows down again before stopping. Because the opener isn’t connected to the joints and is instead located on the wall, cuts down on the level of noise and vibration that the opener makes. If your garage is next to your bedroom, you will not be disturbed by the noise of the garage opener even if a family member comes home late at night.

Ideal for use with different types of ceilings.

Garages with different ceilings like the cathedral ceilings require the jackshaft opener type.

High safety levels 

A Jackshaft opener comes with a safety reversal system. They have amazing features that are accessible on mobile phones, computers, and remote controls. It is installed next to the door which makes it less likely that a component will fall and hit your car. Some of them are also equipped with the LiftMaster’s Security+ 2.0 system so you cannot have your remote code stolen.

The jackshaft safety sensors reverse the door if anything or anyone tries to get under the door while it is going down. This is very good for families with children who play by the garage side

 Backup battery

Most jackshaft garage door openers are equipped with a backup battery that comes in handy in cases of power outages. You can rely on the motion-activated lighting system to turn the lights on and off.

Cons of a jackshaft garage opener

With its many benefits, there also are a few disadvantages of the jackshaft garage door openers. Let us look at some of them:

• They are quite expensive due to the more features and functionalities they have.
• These openers are applicable when sufficient space is available. If your garage doesn’t meet the right space requirements it is nearly impossible to install this kind of opener. You need at least 6” of space beyond the garage door wall.

Jackshaft Garage Door Opener Space and Installation Requirements

• The space from the left and right sides of the door should be at least 8 inches
• The space above the door should be 3 inches minimum
• A torsion-type spring lift system. The shaft holds onto the spring placed in the housing of the opener which turns using the opener when you open and close the door.
• Electrical power output at least 6 feet from the garage door
• Enough space to fit the 16.25-inch opener housing

Jackshaft Opener vs. Trolley Style – What You Need to Know

Below we look at some of the similarities and different characteristics of the jackshaft opener vs the trolley style system.

• Trolley opener systems are found mostly in residential houses. Over the last decade, most of the garages built are well above 9 feet high with different types of ceilings. Most trolley opener systems are not compatible with the modern housing styles, sizes, and ceiling.
• Jackshaft opener is mounted on the sides of the door, whereas a trolley-type opener is mounted on the ceiling at exactly the center of the door.
• Jackshaft openers are more expensive than trolley openers but there are price fluctuations with trolley openers from time to time depending on the drive.
• Most jackshaft openers have more horsepower than the trolley style openers
• both Jackshaft and trolley style garage door openers require frequent servicing depending on their applications. they are also very durable and reliable for a lengthy period.

Common Questions Around Jackshaft Garage Door Openers

Here are some of the questions most garage owners have about jackshaft garage door openers.

Are Jackshaft garage door openers better?

Generally, jackshaft garage door openers are a better option because they hardly produce any noise while in operation as compared other types like chain drives which produce too much noise. In terms of durability, chain drive garage door openers tend to last longer but Jackshaft works just fine and are also very durable.

Who makes Jackshaft garage door openers?

Most garage door opener manufacturers make Jackshaft garage door openers. These include known brands like LiftMaster, Genie, etc.

Can I use a Jackshaft garage door opener?

Yes, provided the space and other installation requirements are met. Jackshaft garage door openers are probably the most silent garage door openers in the world and can be a great addition to your garage if noise is a factor to be considered.

Who makes the most reliable jackshaft garage door openers?

It depends on a number of factors but most of the top brands have great options when it comes to jackshaft garage door openers. Make sure you choose a garage door opener that ticks all your requirements and also use our buyer guide section to make a decision.

Best Jackshaft Garage Door Opener: 8500 LiftMaster 2-Pack Garage Door Opener

With all the factors considered, the 8500 LiftMaster 2-Pack Garage Door Opener takes the day as the best jackshaft garage door opener. This garage door opener has some of the coolest features that make operation your garage door a breeze. The opener is very durable, silent and fast. Although it requires an additional power backup option for use during times of power outage, it still carries the day albeit with some great competition from the Liftmaster 8500 elite series and elite series with myQ garage door openers.

Conclusion

It’s no doubt jackshaft garage door openers are a great addition to your garage considering their amazing features and most of all, the silent operation which is great if your garage is next to a bedroom. And although the 8500 LiftMaster 2-Pack garage door opener has proved to be the best jackshaft garage door opener of choice, we have provided some great comparisons including the Chamberlain RJ020 which is probably the best jackshaft garage door opener where space is limited.