Have you ever wished you had a second garage door opener — maybe for your spouse, kids, or a backup in case one gets lost? Many homeowners ask, “How do I get a second garage door opener?” The good news is, getting and setting up an extra remote is easier than you might think.
In this complete guide, we’ll explain how to find the right remote for your garage door system, how to program it safely, and what to consider before buying one. Whether you own a Chamberlain, LiftMaster, Genie, or Craftsman model, this article walks you through every step clearly and confidently.
Read too: Mastering Quantum Garage Door Opener Programming: A Comprehensive Guide
Why You Might Need a Second Garage Door Opener
Having an additional garage door remote isn’t just about convenience — it’s about security and flexibility. Here are the most common reasons homeowners get a second one:
- Multiple drivers in the household: Each person needs their own remote.
- Lost or damaged remote: Always smart to have a backup.
- Guest access: Perfect for visiting family members or housekeepers.
- Emergency use: Store one in your car or with a trusted neighbor.
According to the National Association of Home Builders, over 70% of U.S. homeowners use their garage door as the main entry point into their home. That makes having a reliable second opener essential.
How Do I Get a Second Garage Door Opener
Let’s go step-by-step through the process — from choosing the right remote to setting it up.
1. Identify Your Garage Door Opener Brand and Model
Before buying anything, you must know the exact model of your opener. This ensures compatibility.
Where to find it:
- Look for a sticker or metal plate on the back or side of your opener motor unit (usually mounted on the ceiling).
- The label will list the manufacturer (e.g., Chamberlain, Genie, LiftMaster) and the model number.
- Note the frequency — usually 315 MHz or 390 MHz.
If you can’t find it, check your user manual or search your opener’s model number online.
Example:
If your opener says LiftMaster 8500W, you’ll likely need a remote compatible with the Security+ 2.0 system.
2. Choose a Compatible Remote
Garage door remotes are not universal — they must match your opener’s brand, model, and signal frequency.
Here’s a quick compatibility table:
| Brand | Recommended Remote | Frequency Range |
|---|---|---|
| Chamberlain | 953EV or 950EV | 315 MHz / 390 MHz |
| LiftMaster | 893MAX | 315 MHz / 390 MHz |
| Genie | G3T-R | 315 MHz |
| Craftsman | 139.53753 | 390 MHz |
| Universal | Clicker KLIK3U | Works with multiple brands |
Pro Tip: Most modern remotes (like Chamberlain’s Universal 953EV) support multiple openers — ideal if you have two different garage doors.
3. Buy from a Trusted Source
To ensure quality and avoid counterfeit devices, purchase from verified sellers only:
- Manufacturer websites (Chamberlain, LiftMaster, Genie)
- Home improvement stores (Home Depot, Lowe’s, Ace)
- Authorized online retailers (Amazon official stores)
Avoid low-priced, off-brand remotes unless they explicitly state compatibility and customer reviews confirm functionality.
4. Program Your Second Garage Door Opener Remote
Now that you have the right remote, it’s time to program it.
Follow these general steps (applies to most major brands):
- Locate the “Learn” button on your opener unit (usually behind the light cover or near the antenna wire).
- Press and release the “Learn” button — a small LED will light up or blink.
- Within 30 seconds, press and hold the button on your new remote until the LED on the opener flashes or clicks.
- Release the button and test your remote by pressing it to open/close the door.
If it works, congratulations — you’ve successfully added a second garage door opener!
💡 Tip: If you’re programming multiple remotes, repeat these steps for each one individually.
5. Set Up a Keypad or Smart Controller (Optional)
If you want even more flexibility, you can add a wireless keypad or smart garage controller. These allow you to open the door without a physical remote.
Options include:
- Chamberlain Keypad 940EV-P2: Mount outside your garage door for code-based entry.
- myQ Smart Garage Hub: Connects your opener to Wi-Fi for smartphone control.
According to Chamberlain Group, over 40% of new buyers now choose a smart-compatible setup for added security and convenience.
Pros and Cons: Buying a Second Remote vs. Smart Control
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Second Remote | Easy to set up, affordable (~$30), no Wi-Fi needed | Can get lost, limited range |
| Smart Controller | App access, activity alerts, remote operation | Higher cost (~$80+), setup requires Wi-Fi |
| Wireless Keypad | Great for guests or kids, PIN-protected | Must remember code |
If you just need a quick, simple solution, a second remote is perfect. But if you want long-term convenience and security, upgrading to a smart system may be worth it.
Troubleshooting: When the New Remote Won’t Work
If your new opener doesn’t respond, try the following fixes:
- Recheck frequency compatibility: Make sure your remote supports your opener’s signal.
- Reset and reprogram: Hold the “Learn” button for 10 seconds to clear memory, then reprogram.
- Check batteries: Even new remotes can ship with weak batteries.
- Inspect antenna: Ensure the opener’s antenna wire is hanging straight down and not damaged.
If it still won’t work, your opener’s logic board might be faulty. In that case, professional servicing may be required.
External Resource
For a technical explanation of garage door opener systems and frequencies, see Wikipedia – Garage Door Opener.
FAQ: How Do I Get a Second Garage Door Opener
1. Can I use any remote for my garage door opener?
No. Each opener works with specific frequencies and security codes. Always match your remote brand and model to the opener’s specifications.
2. How much does a second garage door opener cost?
A compatible remote usually costs $25–$45. Smart controllers range from $70–$100.
3. Do I need to erase my old remote when adding a new one?
No. Adding a new remote won’t erase existing ones unless you perform a full memory reset.
4. Can I program two remotes to the same opener?
Yes. Most openers support up to 5–8 remotes. Perfect for families with multiple vehicles.
5. Is there a difference between Chamberlain and LiftMaster remotes?
They’re made by the same parent company (The Chamberlain Group). Most models are cross-compatible, but always check your opener’s Learn button color to confirm.
6. What if I lose all my remotes?
You can reset your opener and reprogram new remotes. This ensures lost remotes no longer access your garage.
Conclusion
Getting a second garage door opener is simple, affordable, and adds real convenience to your daily life. Whether you’re sharing access with family or just want a spare, the key steps are identifying your opener model, choosing a compatible remote, and programming it properly.
By following this guide, you’ll have your new remote working in minutes — no technician needed.
If this article helped you, share it on social media or send it to a friend who’s tired of sharing a single remote. A little garage convenience goes a long way!
Leave a Reply