In regards to the Zap operator, I would like to note that I have 15 years experience working with the Zap product. I have installed them, provided installation training, trouble shooting assistance over the phone for anyone that has required it, and sold the product successfully.
The Zap operator is one of the quietest, safest, simplest to install garage door operator on the market today. The newer residential Zap model 8825-R4operator contains a 1HP motor with all metal gears in the gear box, so no plastic. With only 2 pulleys and 1 belt, there are minimal amount of moving components, which means not only is it very quiet, but the less moving components, the less issues or parts to replace over time. Who wants an operator with multiple chains and sprockets, which is very noisy, but also creates more issues in the future.
The Zap 8825-R4 model operator can operate doors from 6x6 in size all the way up to 14x14, that includes large custom wood doors and carriage house doors with windows, etc. It is setup to operate the above size doors with low headroom track (low ceiling with double radius track), standard lift (door curves back in the track right at the top of the door opening), high lift (door travels up the wall a ways before it curves back in the track), and full vertical lift (door goes straight up). It also operates doors with the springs mounted up front above the door opening as well as doors with the springs in the rear.
The cycle count on the Zap 8825-R4 residential model operator is continuous. This means it can be operated all day everyday. There is no thermal overload on the Zap 8825-R4. This means it cannot overheat. This operator contains a DC motor, which runs at a very low voltage. That means you get a soft start and soft stop feature when it runs your door. This will allow for less stress on your door related components.
The Zap residential 8825-R4 model operator includes the latest safety technology called "Safety Sense." This technology turns your entire door into a safety device. This is achieved by the Zap motor constantly monitoring the motor current as it operates, so any issues your door encounters as it operates, the Zap will recognize them and react accordingly. For example, if your door is closing and strikes an obstruction such as a garden tool left propped up in the door track and it is not breaking the safety beam at the bottom, the operator will sense this, stop and reverse back to fully open. Other comparable operators would continue pushing on the object, damage the bottom section of your door, the item it's pushing on, and throw the door cables off of your door.
The Zap residential 8825-R4 model operator only requires 4 3/4" of side clearance. It never exceeds the height of your door's cable drum, so you know if your spring system fits with no issues, so will the Zap operator. The Zap operator can be mounted on either side of the door. It can also be mounted in a standard position, such as straight up and down, horizontal, and even upside down if needed.
The Zap 8825-R4 is UL325 approved for residential use and is backed by a very attractive mfg. warranty.
To sum it up, I would highly recommend the Zap 8825-R4 residential model operator over comparable side mount operators for the fact that it mounts to the spring shaft only, not to your header or wall area. You will always hear your door running over the Zap. It is very safe, no multiple sprockets and chains just 2 pulleys and 1 belt, and the power and sensitivity are adjustable so your door does not need to be "perfect" running. The operator has a 1HP motor so it can run large residential doors with various track configurations. Also, it is a very simple operator to install. Definitely the operator of choice for the DIY's.
If you have questions, comments, or would like more information on the Zap operator, please feel free to message me here or visit our website
http://www.northshorecommercialdoor.com
We stock the full Zap product line and would be happy to assist you. Thank you!
