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Top 5 Things to Consider When Choosing Handicap Automatic Door Openers

Modified: August 4, 2022 in Automatic Doors

Handicapped doors are an excellent addition to any residential or commercial property for individuals with limited mobility or anyone who is unable to open or close a swing door manually. Making your home, business, or any facility building easily accessible with automatic door operators at public entrances and exterior doors will go a long way!

However, understanding them, ensuring they meet the requirements per the Americans With Disabilities Act, and how to order the right door hardware and equipment can be confusing. In this article, we will look at five essential questions to consider before buying a handicap door opener (ADA Doors).

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

The direction that your door opens determines the type of mount that suits your specific application. A jamb mounted auto operator is added to a door jamb above the door. It usually pushes the door open.

A door mount for automatic door openers is installed on the back of the door. It typically pulls the door opening mechanism.  In all cases, an expert must install automatic door openers inside and away from weather exposure.

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

The arm of the handicap door operator residential unit attaches to the door or door jamb enabling a user to open and close it with the handicap door button, push of a hand-held remote, or coded keypad.

An ADA-compliant door operator for residential units is a smaller piece of equipment that's designed for one family application where the door opening mechanism will open the hinged door most of the time. They aren't designed for high use in public or commercial accessibility applications.

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?

If the person dependent on the ADA door opener can't open the door physically during a power outage and there is no one to help him or her, then battery backup is necessary.

Keep in mind though, that an emergency that necessitates getting through the door to safety may arise. You can open most hinged doors that have an automatic door operator manually even during a power outage, so it is imperative to verify this before purchasing your specific door opening mechanism.

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

The answer to this question depends on your specific skill level. Before you buy your openers, find out if the company or an authorized dealer provides the necessary technical support. Also, check if their site provides enough information to assist you to make the right buying decision and that it meets ADA standards.

Who Can Complete The Installation For You?

When you order the correct combination of equipment with automatic door openers, they can be relatively easy to install for a skilled DIY person. However, there are plenty of professionals who can do this for you, including the following:

  • Locksmiths

  • General Contractors

  • Carpenters

  • Door Installation Contractors

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

Electronic and Handicap Entry Solutions in Roseville, MI | Great Lakes Security Hardware - AdobeStock_195875471

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.