LiftMaster 8500W Jackshaft Garage Door Opener Review
- March 19, 2024
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The LiftMaster 8500W Jackshaft Garage Door Operator is a modern and high-tech device designed to make opening and closing your garage door easier and more convenient. In this review, we will take a detailed look at its specifications, performance, build quality, ease of use, operation, and maintenance, as well as the things we liked and didn’t like about it. We will also provide a troubleshooting guide and our recommendations for potential buyers.
Specifications
| Model | LiftMaster Elite Series 8500W |
| Type | Jackshaft Garage Door Operator |
| Connectivity | Built-in WiFi for easy connection to home networks and smartphone control |
| Power Source | Electric |
| Voltage | 24V DC motor |
| Lighting | Integrated LED lighting system that provides ample illumination |
Performance
The LiftMaster 8500W shines when it comes to performance. This garage door opener runs smoothly and without making a lot of noise, which is great whether your garage is attached to your house or not. You won’t have to worry about loud noises disturbing your home’s peace or waking up someone sleeping nearby. The fact that it operates quietly doesn’t take away from its power; it can easily lift heavy garage doors without struggling.
Another standout feature is its WiFi connectivity. This means you can open or close your garage door using your smartphone, no matter where you are. Imagine never having to wonder if you forgot to close the garage door again. You can check and control it all from an app, adding a layer of convenience and security to your daily routine. This functionality is especially handy when you’re away from home and need to let someone in or when you’re arriving home with your hands full. The LiftMaster 8500W makes your garage door smarter, fitting seamlessly into the modern, connected home.
Build Quality
The LiftMaster 8500W Jackshaft Garage Door Operator boasts exceptional build quality. Crafted from robust materials, this opener is designed to endure frequent operation with ease. Its compact and modern design not only ensures durability but also saves space in your garage, making it a practical and efficient choice for homeowners looking for a reliable garage door opener.
Ease of Use
The LiftMaster 8500W Jackshaft Garage Door Operator is a breeze to use, thanks to its user-friendly design. Setting it up wirelessly and connecting it to the myQ app is simple and straightforward, making installation and operation hassle-free. With the myQ app, you can receive instant alerts and monitor your garage door in real time, enhancing convenience and providing you with added peace of mind knowing your garage is secure.
Operation and Maintenance
Using the LiftMaster 8500W is a breeze, which means you won’t have any trouble getting your garage door to open or close. This is all thanks to the smart features it comes with. For example, you can use your phone to control the door, even when you’re not at home. It’s designed to work well all the time, making your life easier and your home more secure. You don’t need to be tech-savvy to use it, as it’s made to be user-friendly for everyone.
When it comes to keeping the LiftMaster 8500W in good shape, there’s not much you have to do, which is great news. It’s built to last and work perfectly with just a little bit of attention from you. Every now and then, you should check to make sure everything looks right and is working as it should.
This might include looking at the parts to see if they need to be cleaned or lubricated, especially if you notice the door isn’t moving as smoothly as it usually does. Following these simple steps can help ensure that your garage door opener keeps running smoothly, saving you time and hassle in the long run.
Things I Liked about LiftMaster 8500W Jackshaft Garage Door Opener
The LiftMaster 8500W Jackshaft Garage Door Operator has several features that stand out and are well-liked by users:
- Quiet and Smooth Operation: Users appreciate the quiet and smooth performance of the 8500W, making it a non-disruptive addition to their homes.
- WiFi Connectivity for Remote Access: The ability to control the garage door remotely through WiFi connectivity is a feature that users find particularly convenient and beneficial.
- Space-Saving Design: The compact and wall-mounted design of the 8500W is praised for its space-saving nature, allowing users to reclaim overhead space in their garages.
- Durable Build Quality: The sturdy and durable construction of the 8500W is a standout feature that adds to its appeal and longevity, as highlighted by users’ positive experiences.
- Minimal Maintenance Requirements: Users have expressed satisfaction with the minimal maintenance needed for the 8500W, contributing to its overall user-friendly nature and convenience.
Things I Don’t Like about LiftMaster 8500W Jackshaft Garage Door Opener
While the LiftMaster 8500W Jackshaft Garage Door Operator has many positive attributes, there are a few aspects that users have noted as potential drawbacks:
- Limited Compatibility: The 8500W may have limited compatibility with specific types of garage doors, particularly those that do not align with its design requirements, which can be a concern for some users.
- Professional Assistance for Setup: The initial setup of the 8500W may require professional assistance for certain users, potentially adding to the overall installation cost and complexity for some homeowners.
Comparative Analysis: LiftMaster 8500W Vs. Chamberlain B6713T
| Feature |  Chamberlain B6713T |  LiftMaster 8500W |
|---|---|---|
| Drive Mechanism | Belt drive (quiet, smooth) | Jackshaft (saves space, efficient) |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi (control with smartphone) | Wi-Fi (control with smartphone) |
| Smart Home Integration | Works with many smart home systems (like MyQ) | Works with MyQ for smart homes |
| Installation | DIY possible (videos and manual help) | Professional suggested (DIY with instructions) |
| Noise Level | Very quiet (because of belt drive) | Quiet (different mechanism, still smooth) |
| Safety Features | Auto-reverse, safety sensors | Auto-reverse, safety sensors, secure code |
| Maintenance | Check belt tension sometimes | Check and lubricate parts sometimes |
| Power Source | Electric (efficient, battery backup) | Electric (efficient, battery backup) |
| Cost | Moderate to high | Might be higher (brand, features) |
| User-Friendly | App for easy control, voice commands | App for control, extra security |
| LED Lighting | Yes (good visibility, efficient) | Yes (good visibility, efficient) |
| Battery Backup | Included (for outages) | Included (reliable during outages) |
| Warranty | Good warranty (varies) | Longer warranty (depends on parts) |
| Installation Kit | Complete kit for setup | Complete kit (some tools needed) |
| Remote Control | Long-range, high-quality | High-quality, secure+ 2.0 technology |
Summary
Both the Chamberlain B6713T and LiftMaster 8500W offer advanced technology for garage door operation, providing quiet performance, smart connectivity, and safety features. While the Chamberlain is more DIY-friendly and slightly more cost-effective, the LiftMaster 8500W emphasizes space efficiency with its jackshaft mechanism, added security features, and might lean towards a preference for professional installation. Choosing between them depends on your specific needs, such as installation preferences, budget, and the importance of advanced security features.
Troubleshooting Guide for the LiftMaster 8500W Jackshaft Garage Door Opener
1. Door Won’t Open or Close
- Check Power Source: Ensure the unit is plugged in and the circuit breaker is not tripped.
- Remote Battery: Replace the battery in the remote control if it’s not working.
- Obstructions: Look for obstructions in the door’s path and clear them.
2. Door Reverses Before Hitting the Floor
- Travel Limits: Adjust the travel limits according to the manual’s instructions.
- Safety Sensors: Ensure the safety sensors are aligned and clean. Obstructions or misalignment can cause issues.
3. Motor Runs but Door Doesn’t Move
- Manual Release: Check if the manual release hasn’t been accidentally engaged.
- Door Balance: Perform a balance test. If the door is hard to move manually, it may need professional adjustment.
4. Opener is Noisy
- Lubrication: Regularly lubricate moving parts with garage door lubricant.
- Hardware Check: Tighten any loose bolts and nuts.
5. Door Opens Partially
- Travel Limits: Adjust the opener’s travel limits as the door might not be set to open fully.
- Sensor Obstruction: Ensure nothing is blocking the sensors, even partially.
6. Door Closes Partially and Reverses
- Travel Limits and Force Adjustment: Adjust both settings according to the manual. Improper settings can cause this issue.
- Check Track: Ensure there’s no blockage or damage on the track.
7. Lights Don’t Turn On/Off
- Bulb Check: Replace LED bulbs if necessary.
- Settings: Some models have settings for the light feature; refer to the manual to adjust these settings.
8. Wi-Fi Connectivity Issues
- Router Position: Ensure the garage door opener is within a good range of your Wi-Fi router.
- Reconnect: Follow the manual’s steps to reconnect your opener to your home Wi-Fi network.
9. MyQ App Not Connecting
- App Update: Ensure your MyQ app is up to date.
- Wi-Fi Settings: Double-check Wi-Fi settings and passwords.
- Restart: Try restarting both your smartphone and the garage door opener.
10. Manual Release Not Engaging
- Check the Cord: Ensure the manual release cord is not tangled or damaged.
- Engage Correctly: Follow the manual’s instructions to properly engage the manual release.
General Maintenance Tips
- Regular Inspections: Perform regular inspections of the door, opener, and all related hardware.
- Test Safety Features: Regularly test the auto-reverse feature and safety sensors.
- Keep It Clean: Keep the tracks, rollers, and sensors clean from debris and dust.
Recommendations and Final Thoughts
The LiftMaster 8500W Jackshaft Garage Door Operator stands out as a top-tier choice for homeowners seeking a reliable, quiet, and technologically advanced garage door solution. Its impressive build quality, combined with the convenience of WiFi connectivity and smart home integration, offers a seamless and user-friendly experience.
While its installation may require professional assistance for some, the long-term benefits and operational efficiency it brings to daily life are undeniable. It’s particularly suitable for those who value space-saving design without compromising on power or performance. If you’re in the market for a garage door opener that blends seamlessly into a smart home ecosystem while providing peace of mind through secure and smooth operation, the LiftMaster 8500W is an excellent investment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I install the LiftMaster 8500W by myself?
Yes, if you’re handy and follow the instructions carefully. However, professional installation is recommended to ensure optimal performance and safety. - Is the LiftMaster 8500W compatible with all garage doors?
It works with most garage doors, but check compatibility, especially if your door is very large or heavy. - How do I connect the LiftMaster 8500W to my smartphone?
Use the MyQ app. Follow the setup instructions within the app to connect your garage door opener to your home WiFi network. - What maintenance does the LiftMaster 8500W require?
It needs minimal maintenance. Periodically check and clean the sensors, and ensure the moving parts are lubricated. - Can I use the LiftMaster 8500W without WiFi?
Yes, it will still operate as a garage door opener without WiFi, but you’ll lose remote access and monitoring features. - How secure is the LiftMaster 8500W?
Very secure. It uses advanced encryption for remote operations and features like Security+ 2.0 technology. - What should I do if my LiftMaster 8500W stops working?
Check the power source, ensure there are no obstructions, and consult the troubleshooting guide. Contact support if the issue persists. - Does the LiftMaster 8500W work during a power outage?
Yes, it has a battery backup feature that allows it to operate even during power outages. - Can the LiftMaster 8500W integrate with smart home systems?
Yes, it’s compatible with various smart home platforms through the MyQ app, allowing for seamless integration. - What warranty comes with the LiftMaster 8500W?
The warranty terms vary, so it’s best to check the specific details at the time of purchase or on the manufacturer’s website.
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