How to replace a garage door opener battery

This DIY repair guide explains how to replace the back-up battery in a garage door opener. Located in the motor unit, the battery supplies power to the opener if the power goes out. Test the battery yearly according to the instructions in your owner's manual. If the battery status light indicates a low battery charge when you unplug the garage door opener to test the battery, plug the garage door opener back in and see if the battery charges within 48 hours. If the battery hasn't charged after 48 hours, replace it with the manufacturer-approved replacement part.

This basic repair procedure works for common Craftsman, LiftMaster and Chamberlain garage door openers.

Instructions

1. Disconnect power

Use a step ladder to access the garage door opener’s power cord and motor unit.

Unplug the garage door opener.

2. Remove the battery

Open the light cover.

Remove the battery compartment cover screw and then remove the cover.

Pull the battery out and disconnect the wires.

3. Install the new battery

Connect the wires to the new battery.

Insert the battery into the compartment.

Reinstall the battery compartment cover and secure it with the screw.

4. Reconnect electrical power

Plug in the garage door opener.