Opener HP by door weight
Opener power is matched to how much the door weighs: a light single (aluminum/glass or 1-layer steel) suits a ½ HP motor, most insulated singles and light doubles a ¾ HP, and a heavy double, solid-wood or oversized door a 1+ HP. The bands below are labeled planning typicals — belt-drive and DC units are often rated by door size too, so confirm on the opener’s spec. Use them with the HP sizing helper and the weight estimator.
| Opener power | Door-weight band | Typical door |
|---|---|---|
| ½ HP | 0–150 lb | Light single door (aluminum/glass, 1-layer steel) |
| ¾ HP | 150–350 lb | Most insulated singles and light doubles |
| 1+ HP | over 350 lb | Heavy double, solid-wood or oversized door |
Labeled planning bands. Belt-drive and DC openers are often rated by door size too — confirm on the opener’s spec and estimate the door with the weight estimator.