Garage Door Opener - Frequently Asked Questions

Belt drive openers are generally considered better for several reasons:

  1. Quiet Operation: Belt drive openers are significantly quieter than chain drive openers. This makes them ideal for homes with attached garages or garages located near living spaces, as they minimise noise disturbances.
  2. Smooth Movement: Belt drives provide smoother operation, which reduces wear and tear on the garage door mechanism. The smooth motion also contributes to quieter performance.
  3. Cleaner Operation: Belt drives do not involve metal-on-metal contact, which can produce debris and require more maintenance. This leads to a cleaner and more reliable operation over time.
  4. Chains are greasy which attracts dust and grit.
  5. Durability and Strength: Modern belt drive openers are made from durable materials such as reinforced steel-infused rubber, which provides long-lasting performance. While they are slightly more expensive than chain drive openers, the additional cost is often justified by their longevity and quiet operation.

When selecting a garage door opener for your Australian home, Merlin offers a range of models tailored to various needs. Here's a concise overview of some top options:

1. Merlin Commander Platinum MS137MYQ

  •  Heavy-Duty Aluminium Extruded Rail
  • myQ Smart Connectivity 
  • Wireless Safety Beam System
  • Powerful Performance: 
  • Quiet Operation: 
  • Enhanced Security+ 2.0®: 
  • Battery Backup Compatibility

2. Merlin Commander Extreme II MS127MYQ

  • Heavy-Lifting Capacity
  • Smart Connectivity
  • Battery Backup Compatibility
  • Quiet and Reliable Operation
  • Enhanced Safety Features
  • Energy Efficiency: 
  • Comprehensive Warranty
  • Manual Release Cord

3. Merlin Commander Elite MS105MYQ

  • Versatile Compatibility
  • Powerful Performance
  • Quiet Operation
  • myQ Compatibility
  • 7-year warranty

Why Choose Merlin?
Merlin openers are engineered to withstand Australia's diverse climate conditions, ensuring longevity and reliable performance. Many models come with extended warranties, reflecting the brand's commitment to quality. 

For expert advice and installation tailored to your specific needs, consider consulting with Eastern Garage Doors, a trusted provider of Merlin products and services in Melbourne's eastern suburbs.

 
 

Chamberlain can be purchased through Bunnings with a 12 month product warranty. At the time of purchase you can choose to have your opener installed with a professional like Eastern Garage Doors if you are based on the East side of Victoria.

Merlin, under the Chamberlain Group, has a strong presence in Australia. Their products are designed to withstand the unique climate and operational demands of Australian homes. This local focus ensures that Merlin openers are built to last and perform optimally in the Australian environment.

Merlin openers can be purchased from Eastern Garage Doors and have product warranties up to 7 years. If a fault were to occur you are able to contact Eastern Garage Doors who will work with Merlin to have the opener replaced. With Chamberlain motors you will need to contact them as the supplier, as well as Eastern Garage Doors to remove the opener and you will personally need to send the motor back and replace with an alternative opener.

Selecting the right garage door opener is essential for convenience, security, and longevity. With a wide range of options available, it’s important to consider your home’s specific needs before making a decision.

  1. Door Type and Size
  2. Motor Power
  3. Noise Levels
  4. Smart Features
  5. Safety and Security

Choosing the right opener can be overwhelming, but professional advice makes the process easy. Eastern Garage Doors can guide you through selecting the perfect opener for your home, tailored to your door type, size, and lifestyle needs.

For expert guidance or to arrange an installation, call Eastern Garage Doors today or email us to discuss your options and get a quote. Your reliable, quiet, and smart garage door solution is just a call or email away.

A garage door motor is expected to last approximately 7-15 years:

  1. Usage and Maintenance: The lifespan of a garage door motor depends largely on the frequency of use and the level of maintenance it receives. Regular maintenance, including lubrication and inspections, can significantly extend the life of the motor. The longevity of a garage door opener also depends on the condition of the door. A poorly maintained door with high tension will strain the garage door opener, reducing its lifespan. Regular maintenance of the door is essential to ensure the opener lasts as long as possible.
  2. Quality of the Opener: Higher-quality garage door openers, often found in belt drive models, tend to have longer lifespans. Investing in a reputable brand can result in fewer breakdowns and a longer operational life.  It is good to choose an opener from a manufacturer that has a great customer service record.

 

Scheduling regular maintenance every 2-3 years helps to identify and address potential issues before they become major problems. During these maintenance checks, we will:

  • Check the balance and spring tension to ensure the door opens and closes smoothly.
  • Lubricate all moving parts to reduce friction and wear.
  • Tighten hardware to prevent parts from becoming loose and causing damage.

Addressing issues at the first sign of trouble, such as unusual noises, slow movement, or misalignment, can prevent costly repairs and extend the life of your garage door system. By catching and fixing small problems early, you avoid more significant issues down the line.

Additionally, it's crucial to reset all settings and calibrate the system during maintenance to ensure optimal performance.

Failing to service your garage door regularly shortens the lifespan of your garage door motor. The motor has to work harder to compensate for any imbalances or increased friction, leading to quicker wear and potential breakdowns. Regular maintenance helps ensure that your motor runs efficiently and lasts longer.

Eastern Garage Doors offers a variety of garage door openers including roller door openers, sectional door openers, and tilt door openers. We recommend Merlin products for their reliability and warranty support.

The Merlin SilentDrive Essential is suitable for smaller doors, is myQ compatible, and has a quiet and powerful operation. It also comes with a five-year warranty.

Yes, many of the garage door openers offered by Eastern Garage Doors are compatible with the Merlin myQ app, allowing you to control your garage door via your smartphone or tablet.  This app also allows you to monitor when the door is opened and closed, you can also schedule the opening or closing of the garage door at specific times.

You can add Safety IR Beams that prevent the door from closing if an obstruction is detected, protecting people, pets, and vehicles.  This is a great option to protect your family, vehicle, pets of bicycles.

The door openers also have a safety reverse if the garage door hits something - it is very important that this is tested frequently to make sure it is working correct and changes in your garage door tension or older opener this function can fail.

 

Regular maintenance includes checking the door balance, lubricating moving parts, and testing the safety features. Eastern Garage Doors offers maintenance services to keep your opener in optimal.

Noisy operation can be due to various issues. It's best to have it inspected by a professional to identify and fix the problem.

The choice depends on the type and size of your garage door, as well as your specific needs. Their technicians can help you choose the best opener during the phone consultation.

Yes, Eastern Garage Doors provides battery backup options to most model openers to ensure your garage door opener functions during power outages.

The process begins with an initial consultation over the phone. During this call, we will discuss your needs and gather information about your current garage door system. Based on this conversation, we can schedule an appointment for installing a new opener.

When our technician arrives, they will first assess the condition of your garage door and the installation site. If they identify any issues with the door or the installation process, they will discuss these with you before proceeding. Our priority is to ensure that your door is in suitable condition for the new opener.

If the door is not suitable for a new opener, we will not proceed with the installation. Instead, we will provide you with a detailed quote for any necessary repairs or adjustments needed to make your door compatible with the new opener. This ensures that your garage door system operates safely and efficiently once the new opener is installed.

Installation typically takes around one hour, depending on the complexity of the job and the type of door and opener.

Yes, Eastern Garage Doors offers repair services for all types of garage door openers, including emergency repair services.  We will often ask you to send us photos so we can assess prior to attending to streamline repairs and get your door back and running as fast as possible.

Contact Eastern Garage Doors for a professional assessment and repair. Their technicians are trained to handle various issues with garage door openers.

 Yes, the Merlin Weatherdrive opener is specifically designed for outdoor applications and can withstand exposure to rain.

Yes, Eastern Garage Doors provides various remote control options, including wireless security keypads and remote LED lights.

No we do not quote for garage doors over the phone ther are too many variables and a site attendance is required.

Yes merlin offer serveral openers for lager heavier doors Commander Platinum MS135MYQ, Silentdrive Elite and Grifco LR drive are suitable for larger or heavier doors.

You can schedule a service by contacting Eastern Garage Doors via phone or their website. They offer prompt and reliable service appointments. 

If you email us we will contact you the same day or next business day if break has occurred overnight.

New Garage Door - Frequently Asked Questions

Garage doors are very large and dangerous, if you do not know what you are doing you can cause further damage to the door/opener or injure yourself.

To explore styles and find the perfect garage door for your home, visit the Eastern Garage Doors Gallery. Our team of experts can guide you through the selection process, ensuring you choose a door that complements your home's design and meets your functional needs.

The cost of a new garage door in Australia varies based on several factors, including the type of door, brand, materials, size, automation features, and installation requirements. 

For a tailored quote and expert advice on selecting the right garage door for your home, consider reaching out to Eastern Garage Doors. Their team can provide personalised recommendations and professional installation services to suit your needs and budget.

Yes we can fit a taper to the bottom of the door to allow for a fall in the ground.

If the ground has a bump in the middle there is not a lot we can do.

All garage doors are custom made to fit so there is no strange size.

Usually we can work around this and fit a head panel to accommodate the door.
In most instances yes - but sometimes it is just not possible.

Doors take 2-3 weeks to be manufactured, the install will take between 2-4 hours depending on the complexity of your install.

Call or email us and we will contact you and organise a time to attend and quote.

There are various types including sectional, roller, tilt, and custom designs.

Yes, many manufacturers offer customisation options for design, color, and hardware.

Doors take 2-3 weeks to be manufactured, the install will take between 2-4 hours depending on the complexity of your install.

Installation typically takes 3-6 hours depending on the complexity.

Yes, openers can be installed with new doors for added convenience.

Regular maintenance includes lubrication of moving parts, checking the balance, and ensuring all hardware is tight.

Remotes and Accessories - Frequently Asked Questions

Every garage door opener has a different remote - we stock a large variety of common remotes and are able to source most brands.

Yes, remotes and accessories can be picked up from our factory location - please call and make sure we have what you require.

Yes, we offer the myQ Connectivity Bundle for smart garage door control - suitable for all current Merlin opener.

Delivery times vary, but we aim to dispatch orders same or next day. We offer Express post if you require your order faster or you can also say pick up from our office.

Yes, all our remotes come with a warranty for manufacturing defects only.

Instructions are provided with each remote, and we also offer instructional videos online.

Check the battery - (if the led light iscoming on the remote)

Are all the remotes not working?  If not check the power point.

It can be worth turning the opener off for a few minutes also then back on again.

Otherwise then Contact our customer service team for troubleshooting or to arrange a replacement.

Garage Service and Repairs - Frequently Asked Questions

If more than a service call we offer an obligation free quote and will not charge our service fee.

Deciding whether to repair or replace your garage door depends on its age, condition, and the type of issues it’s experiencing. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can extend a door’s lifespan, but sometimes replacement is the safer and more cost-effective option.

When to Consider Repairs:
Minor issues such as broken springs, frayed cables, misaligned tracks, or worn rollers can often be fixed quickly and at a lower cost. Repairs are ideal if your door is relatively new, the panels and structure are in good condition, and the opener is functioning properly. Addressing small problems early prevents more significant damage and keeps your door operating safely and smoothly.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to cost, safety, and long-term convenience. Minor wear and tear often calls for repairs, while doors that are old, unsafe, or aesthetically outdated are better replaced. For expert guidance, Eastern Garage Doors offers professional assessments and repair or replacement services across Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.

Garage door springs play a crucial role in lifting and lowering your garage door smoothly. They carry most of the door’s weight, making them one of the most important—and potentially dangerous—parts of the system. When springs wear out or break, your garage door may become heavy, uneven, or fail to open altogether.

There are two main types of springs: torsion springs, mounted above the door, and extension springs, located along the tracks on each side. Over time, both types can lose tension or snap due to constant use. Signs that your springs need replacement include loud banging noises, gaps in the coil, or the door feeling too heavy to lift manually.

Replacing garage door springs is not a DIY task. Springs are tightly wound under high tension, and improper handling can cause serious injury or damage. It’s essential to contact a qualified technician to safely remove the old springs, fit new ones, and correctly balance the door.

At Eastern Garage Doors, our experienced team uses high-quality, correctly rated springs designed to match your door’s weight and size. We ensure precise installation, test the balance, and check all moving parts for safety and smooth operation.

To extend the lifespan of your new springs, we recommend scheduling regular maintenance every 2–3 years, keeping components lubricated, and avoiding excessive force on the door.

If your garage door suddenly feels heavy or uneven, contact Eastern Garage Doors for fast, reliable spring replacement across Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.

Common Garage Door Problems and Fixes

Common Garage Door Problems and Fixes

Garage doors have many moving parts that can wear out over time. Here are some of the most common issues and how they’re fixed:

Broken Springs:
Springs carry most of the door’s weight. When they snap or lose tension, the door may become heavy or fail to open. A qualified technician can replace them and rebalance the door for smooth operation.

Frayed Cables:
Damaged cables can break or cause the door to jam, tilt, or drop suddenly. These should only be replaced by professionals to ensure safety.

Track Issues:
If the door jerks, sticks, or squeaks, the rollers or tracks may be bent, dirty, or misaligned. Cleaning, lubricating, or replacing worn rollers can restore proper movement. But it is always best to consult with a professional and conduct maintenance every 3 - 5 years.

Opener Problems:
A faulty garage door opener can stop the door from opening or closing properly. Technicians can test the system, or replace if needed.

Damaged Panels or Hinges:
Bent hinges can cause dents or loose hinges, affecting the balance of your door. Replacing individual panels or hinges usually resolves the problem.  This should only be conducted by a garage door or opener technician. 

Pro Tip:
Regular servicing every 2–3 years helps prevent breakdowns and extends the lifespan of your door. Because garage doors operate under high tension, always call a professional repair team like Eastern Garage Doors for safe, reliable repairs across Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.

First, put the garage door opener onto manual and see if it can be lifted by hand.
Check to see if there are any visible issues.
Call our direct line on (03) 9812 3062

  • Have it serviced every 2-3 years or at the first sign of any complications.
  • Sectional door/panel lift you should check the cables for any signs of fraying or wear, check hinges are tight.
  • Roller doors  - keep door tracks clean wiping out with a clean rag.
  • Tilt doors check for wear on all moving parts. Check springs for over stretching.

We offer a comprehensive range of services including panel lift or sectional door repairs, roller door repairs, broken garage door cable repairs, and broken garage door spring replacements. Anything to do with your garage door or garage door opener.

We strive to respond to repair requests as quickly as possible, typically within an hour - but definitely the same day unless you have contacted us after hours.

Every 2-3 years or at the first sign of problems.

Garage doors are very large and dangerous, if you do not know what you are doing you can cause further damage to the door/opener or injure yourself.

Professional repairs ensure safety, extend the lifespan of your garage door, and prevent further damage.

 You can schedule a service by contacting us via phone, email, or through our website.

Call or email us and we will contact you and organise a time to attend and quote.

Once we have attended our office will send your quote usually within 24 hours.

Yes generally we can realign and repair garage doors that have come off their tracks.

If damaged has been caused to the door this may be an issue.

A broken cable should be replaced immediately. Contact us to handle the repair safely and effectively.
Do not try to open or close the door as this is dangerous to yourself and can cause damaged to the garage door.

Garage door repairs can be dangerous and are best handled by professionals to avoid injury and ensure proper functioning. It's highly recommended to hire a qualified garage door technician for repairs. They have the expertise, equipment, and experience to safely diagnose and fix issues with your garage door, ensuring it operates safely and efficiently. If you're experiencing problems with your garage door, contact a professional service provider to schedule an inspection and repair.

Unusual noises can indicate a problem with the springs, rollers, or opener. It's best to have a professional inspect and address the issue.

Damaged panels can sometimes be replaced depends on the brand of panel.  If more than two panels are damaged or they are no longer manufactured a new door would be required.

First, check the power supply and remote batteries. You can then put your door on manual and lift by hand. If your problem persists, contact us for a professional inspection and repair.

 Yes, our technicians are experienced in repairing a wide range of garage door brands and models.

Common signs include unusual noises, slow or uneven movement, difficulty opening or closing, and visible damage to the door or its components.

Yes, we specialise in replacing broken or worn-out garage door springs safely and efficiently.

If you have a broken sectional door spring you can fill out the form on our website or we cn send you a link.  This enables us to work out what size spring you need and attend to your issue as fast as possible.

Professional repairs ensure safety, extend the lifespan of your garage door, and prevent further damage.

Gate Openers - Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, we can fit a receiver to either your garage door or your gate opener to have both working off the same remote controls.

Yes, we offer both single and double swing gate openers. Call us and we can attend and discuss the best garage door opener for your gates.

Our professional technicians will install the gate opener, ensuring proper setup and functionality. And explain operation to you.

Yes, we provide repair services for all types of gate openers.

Our gate openers come with a manufacturer’s warranty, typically ranging from 1 2 years.

New gate openers come with this function - we are unable to office this to existing gate openers.

Yes, we provide regular maintenance services to ensure your gate opener functions smoothly.

You can schedule a consultation by calling us at (03) 9812 3062 or filling out the enquiry form on our website.

Signs like unusual noises, slow operation, or failure to open/close, gate opening then closing again all indicate that servicing might be needed.

Solar power can be used on some of the gate openers that we sell.

Yes, we can design, manufacture  and install custom gates with integrated openers.

Installation costs vary based on the type of gate and opener; contact us for a detailed quote.

Yes, we offer a range of remote controls compatible with our gate openers.

Yes, we can retrofit gate openers to most existing gates.

We recommend and use reputable brands like Merlin, Grifco, ATA, ECA, Centsys.

Installation typically 3-5, depending on the complexity of the setup.

Gate Repairs - Frequently Asked Questions

We repair all types of gates, including swing gates, slide gates, and custom automatic gates.

We fix broken motors, faulty sensors, misaligned tracks, and damaged gate components.

Yes, regular maintenance is available to keep your gate in optimal condition and prevent future issues.

Yes, we specialise in repairing gates with electronic or remote control systems..

We service a variety of brands, including Merlin, ATA, and B&D, Centsys, ECA, FAAC.

Yes, we carry a wide range of replacement parts for different gate models or we can order in parts for your repair.

You can schedule a repair service by calling us or filling out the enquiry form on our website.

Try to put the gate on manual so you can open or close by had and give us a call for assistance. We can provide guidance over the phone and schedule a repair visit if necessary.

 Yes, we offer upgrade options to enhance your gate's functionality and security.

Doors take 2-3 weeks to be manufactured, the install will take between 2-4 hours depending on the complexity of your install.

Sometimes , we can repair gates that have been damaged by vehicles, restoring them to full functionality, or we can quote for a new gate if required.

The cost varies depending on the extent of the damage, but we provide a free quote before starting any repair work.

No we cannot repair gates when it is raining as the circuit boards are not water proof.

Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help prevent breakdowns. Our technicians can provide specific advice for your gate.

Keepinga reas around the gate openers clean and spraying the area to keep ants and other bugs away from the circuit.

Custom Made Gates - Frequently Asked Questions

We offer a wide variety of custom-made gates including swing gates, sliding gates, cantilever gates, and pedestrian gates. Each type can be tailored to meet your specific needs and preferences.

Yes, we specialise in designing gates that complement and enhance the aesthetic of your property. Whether you have a modern, traditional, or unique style, our team will work with you to create a gate that fits seamlessly.

We offer gates in a range of materials including steel, aluminum, wrought iron, and timber. Each material has its own benefits, and we can help you choose the best one based on your requirements and preferences.

Yes, we provide automation options for all types of custom gates. Our automated gates offer convenience, security, and ease of use, and can be controlled via remote, keypad, or smartphone app.

Yes, we offer repair and upgrade services for existing gates. Whether you need a simple fix or want to upgrade your gate with new features or automation, we can help.

To get a quote for a custom-made gate, you can contact us through our website or call us directly. We will schedule a consultation to discuss your needs and provide a detailed, no-obligation quote.

Feel free to reach out if you have any more questions or need further assistance!

Absolutely. We can integrate various security features such as intercom systems, cameras, keypads, and advanced locking mechanisms to enhance the security of your custom gate.

Yes, we offer warranties on all our custom gates. The length and specifics of the warranty will depend on the materials and components used. Our team will provide detailed warranty information during your consultation.

The maintenance required depends on the material and type of gate. Generally, regular cleaning, lubrication of moving parts, and periodic inspections are recommended. We provide maintenance services and can offer specific advice based on your gate.

Broken Spring - Frequently Asked Questions

Signs of a broken garage door spring include the door not opening or closing properly, a loud bang or snapping noise when the spring breaks, the door appearing crooked or misaligned, and visible gaps or breaks in the spring.

Garage door springs can break due to wear and tear over time, corrosion, lack of maintenance, and fluctuations in temperature. Springs have a limited lifespan and will eventually wear out with regular use.

No, it is unsafe to use a garage door with a broken spring. Attempting to open or close the door can cause further damage and pose a risk of injury.

Fixing a broken garage door spring is urgent. A broken spring compromises the functionality and safety of the garage door, and it should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent accidents and additional damage.

Repairing a broken garage door spring is dangerous and requires specialised tools and expertise. It is strongly recommended to hire a professional technician to ensure the repair is done safely and correctly.

The cost of repairing a broken garage door spring depends on factors such as the type of spring, the extent of the damage, and labor charges. For an accurate estimate, it’s best to contact us for a quote.

Doors take 2-3 weeks to be manufactured, the install will take between 2-4 hours depending on the complexity of your install.

Regular maintenance can help prevent garage door springs from breaking. This includes lubricating the springs, inspecting them for wear and tear, and addressing any issues promptly. Scheduling professional maintenance can also help extend the life of your springs.

The repair time can vary depending on the type of garage door and the extent of the damage. Typically, a professional can repair a broken spring within a few hours.

If your garage door spring breaks, stop using the door immediately and contact a professional garage door repair service. They will assess the situation and perform the necessary repairs..

Broken Cable - Frequently Asked Questions

Common signs include the garage door not opening or closing properly, the door appearing crooked or unbalanced, and visible fraying or snapping of the cables.

Garage door cables can break due to wear and tear over time, corrosion, lack of maintenance, or improper installation. Regular use can also cause them to weaken and eventually snap.

No, it is unsafe to operate a garage door with a broken cable. Attempting to do so can cause further damage to the door and pose a risk of injury.

It is important to address a broken garage door cable as soon as possible. A broken cable can compromise the safety and functionality of your garage door, leading to potential accidents and further damage.

If your garage door cable breaks, stop using the door immediately and contact a professional garage door repair service. They can assess the situation and perform the necessary repairs.

The cost of repairing a broken garage door cable can vary based on factors such as the type of door, the extent of the damage, and labor charges. For an accurate estimate, it’s best to contact us for a quote.

Regular maintenance can help prevent garage door cables from breaking. This includes lubricating the cables, inspecting them for wear and tear, and addressing any issues promptly. Scheduling professional maintenance can also help extend the life of your cables.

The repair time can vary depending on the extent of the damage and the type of garage door. Generally, a professional can repair a broken cable within a few hours.

Repairing a broken garage door cable can be dangerous and requires specialised tools and knowledge. It is recommended to hire a professional technician to ensure the repair is done safely and correctly.