Top 5 Things to Consider When Choosing Handicap Automatic Door Openers

Modified: October 10, 2024 in Automatic Doors

Handicap automatic door openers are an excellent addition to any residential or commercial property, especially for individuals with limited mobility or those unable to open or close doors manually. ADA-compliant door operators for accessible doors are crucial in both private residences and public spaces.

Installing automatic door operators can make your home, business, or facility more accessible, enhancing both safety and convenience for all visitors. In this guide, we’ll discuss five essential factors to consider when choosing automatic doors that meet the requirements of the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA).

Types of Automatic Door Openers and Their Applications

Automatic door openers come in various types, each designed to cater to specific needs and environments. Understanding the different types can help you choose the best automatic door opener for your application.

• Swing Door Operators: These are the most common type of automatic door openers, suitable for both residential and commercial settings. They are ideal for standard doors that swing open and are often used in homes, offices, and public buildings.
• Sliding Door Operators: Perfect for large, heavy doors, sliding door operators are frequently found in commercial and industrial environments. They are ideal for spaces where a swinging door might be impractical, such as in retail stores or warehouses.
• Folding Door Operators: Designed for doors that fold in half when opened, these operators are great for areas with limited space. They are commonly used in both residential and commercial applications, providing a compact solution for tight spaces.
• Revolving Door Operators: These are designed for high-traffic areas and are often used in commercial and public buildings. Revolving door operators help manage the flow of people efficiently while maintaining climate control within the building.

  
  

  Each type of automatic door opener offers unique features and benefits, making it essential to choose the one that best fits your specific needs and application.

  1. Do You Need A Jamb Mount Or Door Mount Application For Your ADA-Compliant Door Openers?

  The type of mount for your automatic door opener depends on the direction in which your door opens. Jamb-mounted automatic door operators are installed above the door and typically push the door open. Alternatively, door-mounted openers are attached to the back of the door and pull it open.

  It’s crucial that automatic door openers are installed by professionals to ensure optimal functionality and protect them from weather exposure, especially for outdoor installations. The door controller plays a vital role in these systems by responding to activation signals from sensors to operate the door, initiating the opening mechanism, and regulating the closing process based on presence detection.

  2. Will Your ADA Door Opener Be Used For Accessible Doors In A Private Residence or Public Space?

  When choosing an automatic door opener, consider where it will be installed. For residential units, ADA-compliant door operators are usually smaller and designed for lower traffic, such as a single-family home. These units typically function using a remote control, push plate, or keypad to open doors automatically.

  On the other hand, commercial automatic door openers are built for heavy use and must endure wear and tear from frequent operation in public spaces. These doors often include a separate door closer to secure the door after the automatic operator finishes its cycle. Commercial handicap door openers function with a separate door closer that's positioned on the opposite side of the handicapped (ADA) door openers so that a user can close the door when the auto operator times out and its arm withdraws itself into the house. A handicap opener commercial model is designed to endure wear and tear more common on a door used in a commercial application or by the general public.

  3. Do You Need To Include A Battery Backup With Your Automatic Door Opener Order?

  

  Power outages can pose a serious risk for individuals relying on ADA-compliant automatic door openers. While many automatic doors can still be opened manually, it’s essential to verify this before purchasing. For added safety, consider investing in a door opener with a battery backup. This feature ensures that the door remains operational during power outages, providing peace of mind for those dependent on the door’s functionality.

  4. Accessibility and Compliance Standards

  Ensuring that your automatic door openers comply with accessibility and safety standards is crucial for creating an inclusive environment. Compliance with these standards guarantees that your doors are safe and accessible for everyone, including individuals with disabilities.

  Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Standards: ADA standards mandate that automatic door openers be installed in a manner that allows people with disabilities to easily access buildings and facilities. This includes considerations for door width, opening speed, and the placement of activation devices like push plates.

  International Building Code (IBC) Standards: IBC standards focus on the safety and accessibility of building features, including automatic door openers. Compliance with these standards ensures that your doors meet the necessary safety requirements for all users.

  International Code Council (ICC) Standards: Similar to IBC standards, ICC standards ensure that automatic door openers are installed to provide safe and accessible entryways. These standards cover various aspects of door installation, including the use of safety sensors and proper door operation.

  
  

  5. Do You Need The ADA Push Button Door Opener To Be Applied Outside For Automatic Doors?

  

  While handicap ADA openers are usually positioned inside, you can still find pieces of equipment that form part of an automatic door operator package, which can be placed in areas exposed to the weather. Examples include door closers rated for weather exposure, coded keypads, and weatherproof handicap door buttons.

  Great Lakes Security Hardware has dedicated experts who can help you make the right choice of handicap (ADA) door openers. We can also offer you a free consultation on purchasing and installation of handicapped (ADA) doors. Call us today at 888.855.6257 or send us a message through our online contact form.

  Key Features of Automatic Door Operators

  
  

• Safety Sensors: These sensors detect obstacles in the door’s path and prevent the door from closing if someone or something is in the way. This feature is crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring user safety.

• Motion Sensors: Motion sensors detect movement near the door and trigger it to open or close automatically. This feature is particularly useful in high-traffic areas where hands-free operation is essential.

• Remote Control: Many automatic door operators come with remote control capabilities, allowing users to open and close the door from a distance. This feature adds convenience, especially for individuals with limited mobility.

• Power Outage Backup: In the event of a power outage, some automatic door operators can still be opened manually. This feature ensures that the door remains functional even when the power is out, providing an added layer of security and convenience.

• Adjustable Speed and Force: The ability to adjust the speed and force of the door’s operation allows users to customize the door’s performance to suit their needs. This feature is particularly beneficial in settings where different levels of force and speed are required.

  
  

  These features enhance the overall functionality and user experience of automatic door operators, making them a convenient and safe solution for various applications.

  4. Can You Install an ADA-Compliant Door Opener Yourself?

  Whether or not you can install an automatic door opener depends on your technical skills. Many door openers come with detailed instructions, but it’s recommended to hire professionals if you’re unsure. Safety features are crucial for compliance with standards like the European standard BS EN 16005 for automatic pedestrian doors, ensuring safe design, installation, and maintenance. Locksmiths, general contractors, and specialized door installation services often handle automatic door installations to ensure compliance with ADA standards and proper functionality.

  Do You Need an Automatic Door Opener That Can Be Used Outdoors?
  

  While most automatic door operators are designed for indoor use, there are models that can withstand outdoor elements. If you need an automatic door opener for an exterior door, look for weather-rated door openers and accessories, such as weatherproof push plates or keypads, to ensure longevity and reliability.

  
  Choose Great Lakes Security Hardware for All Your Automatic Doors Opener Needs

  
  

  When it comes to choosing the best automatic door openers for your property, trust Great Lakes Security Hardware. We specialize in the installation and repair of automatic doors, ensuring compliance with ADA requirements and delivering top-notch door hardware solutions. Whether you need automatic doors for residential units or commercial buildings, our expert team is ready to help.

  
  Contact us today  for a consultation, or visit our website to learn more about our services. Let us enhance the accessibility and security of your property with reliable, ADA-compliant automatic door operators!