Automatic Door Openers on the Rise

For people with limited hand use, turning a door handle can be a nightmare that ranges from difficult to impossible. Thus, it is only natural that automatic door openers are on the uptick. Once only found on the doors of ADA compliant retailers and restaurants, they are now being installed in thousands of homes across the country every year.

Some clients are unaware that a residential door opener exists. It often takes their accessibility company presenting the option to them. The result is a win-win, with the provider increasing their profits and the client having full spectrum independence.

Not all door closers are created equal. They come in a variety of finishes, from architectural grade to gray plastic. The level of tech support that companies offer can vary as well. Navigating your way through these waters demands research, discernment and probably a few phone calls.

When selecting a door opener, the top concern for a client is security and safety. Will it compromise my locking mechanism? Can another person’s remote control open my door? In the event of a power outage can I still get out my front door? Important issues, to be sure. You will need to talk to the manufacturers directly and ask them. This serves as an opportunity to test the quality of their customer service and get a feel for their operations.

Another thing to consider is the overall mobility of the client. Do they have the manual dexterity to press the button on a remote control? If not, you will need to select a door opener that offers ultra-sensitve remotes. If the client has no hand mobility, your opener will need to be able to interface with voice or motion activation devices. Some door opener companies will go so far as to customize a circuit board or modify their system on an individual basis.

Another high priority in selecting a door opener is cost. Some government agencies, such as workman’s comp and the VA, may cover the cost. The same applies to insurance agencies. When they do not, it is time to weigh options and priorities. For example, one little known benefit about a door opener is that they eliminate the need for about eight feet of ramp in the building code. Remember to compare warranties as well. Is there a 90-day money-back offer? A one year bumper-to-bumper? A five-year not-to-exceed cost for major repairs/refurbishing?

Whether automatic door openers will match the sales of powerchairs, ramps and chairlifts remains to be seen. But when you talk to disabled persons who have them on their front doors, they can\’92t imagine life without them. The practical benefit of getting in and out of their homes unassisted is wed with the priceless feelings of independence and empowerment.