Does a Garage Door Opener Have a Battery: Backup & Remote Power Explained
Published Date: Aug 6, 2025
When the power goes out or your remote stops working, you might wonder: does a garage door opener have batteries, or does it only rely on wall power? The answer involves two separate systems — one in your handheld remote and another inside the opener motor itself. Up & Down Garage Doors explains how each works and when it’s time for a battery change.
Understanding Garage Door Opener Batteries: Beyond the Remote
When people think of garage door opener batteries, their mind usually jumps to the small handheld remote they click to open or close the door. That remote certainly runs on a battery. However, many modern garage door opener units also come equipped with a built-in backup battery. This larger battery powers the main motor unit, keeping your garage door operational even if the electricity goes out. Both types of batteries are important for garage access, but they’re located in different places and power different parts of the system.
Does a Garage Door Opener Have Batteries for Backup Power?
The common question we hear is: does a garage door opener have a battery built in? While most openers run on home electricity, many newer systems are designed with built-in rechargeable backup batteries, which automatically kick in during a power outage. These batteries typically allow 20 or more open/close cycles without electricity, so you’re not locked out when the grid goes down. This feature is especially useful for families, rental properties, and omes in areas prone to storms or blackouts. Look for an indicator light or battery symbol on the motor housing to check if your opener includes this feature.
What Battery Does a Garage Door Opener Take?
When you’re trying to figure out what battery a garage door opener takes, it depends on which part of your system you’re looking at: your handheld remote or the main opener unit itself.
- For Your Handheld Remote: These usually take small, common batteries. This includes coin cells (like CR2032 or CR2016) or alkaline batteries such as A23 (a slender 12-volt). Some larger remotes might use AAA or AA batteries. You can typically find the specific type printed inside the remote’s battery compartment or in its user manual.
- For the Main Opener Unit (Backup Battery): If your main opener has a backup, it’s typically a larger, rechargeable 12-volt (12V) sealed lead-acid battery, specific to your model. You’ll usually find its voltage and capacity printed on the battery itself. These often need to be ordered from the opener manufacturer or a specialized supplier.
When to Replace Your Garage Door Opener Battery
Knowing when to change your batteries keeps your garage system running smoothly. Common signs include:
- A dim or unresponsive remote
- The door won’t open during a power outage
- Indicator lights on your opener signaling low backup power
- Manufacturer’s advice — usually every 1–2 years for remotes and every 3–5 years for backup units
If you’re ready to tackle replacing your main opener’s battery, our step-by-step guide on how to change a battery in a garage door opener. can walk you through it. If you’re unsure, Up & Down Garage Doors can inspect and replace opener or remote batteries quickly and carefully.
Considering a New Garage Door Opener or System?
If your system doesn’t support battery backup or is showing signs of age, it might be time to upgrade. Our expert garage door opener installation service includes recommending models with built-in battery backup, quiet motors, Wi-Fi controls, and better range. Whether you’re updating an older unit or building out a multi-door setup, we handle everything from wiring to programming. Contact Up & Down Garage Doors for professional help that fits your setup and your schedule.
