The easiest home improvement task I have ever done in my life. Seriously, if I had known how simple it would be I would not have put it off for so long. A keyless entry for your garage can make it so much easier for children or guests (via temporary PIN code) to access your house without setting the dog off with the doorbell ringing non stop. It took longer to pick out and purchase on Amazon than it did to install. While models, prices, and amount of doors you are programming will vary, the basic installation is the same.
Supply List:
- Wireless Keyless Entry – Lifemaster 877LM
- Stainless Steel Screws #6 x 1 inch
- Tape Measure
- Sharpened Pencil
- Level
- Cordless Drill
- 3/32 Drill Bit
- Philip’s Head Screwdriver
- Step Stool
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Instructions:
Step 1:
Determine the type of garage door opener you have by looking at the brand, model and if there is a colored “learn” button for programming. Purchase accordingly.
Gather together all supplies to make the job go easier. Un-box the keypad and remove the cover and battery.
Step 2:
Measure the outer frame of the garage door jam, before the stop trim. Mine was 5 ½ inches wide. Divide in half and mark the center on the garage door jam at a comfortable height.
Step 3:
Use a drill bit slightly smaller than the width of the #6 stainless steel sheet metal (pan head Phillips) screw you are using. The drill bit I used was a 3/32. This creates a pilot hole for the screw and prevents the wood from splitting. Drill the hole.
Tip:Â Use a drill bit slightly smaller than the screw width so the screw can easily be installed but still has enough wood for the tread to grab and maintain a secure fit.
Step 4:
Screw in the screw using either the power drill with the Phillip’s head attachment, or use a Phillip’s head screwdriver. Do not insert the screw until flush. There needs to be a slight protrusion for the screw head to catch in the keyhole mount on the back of the keypad. Hang keypad.
Step 5:
Use the level to make the keypad straight. It is level once the bubble is centered between the two lines in the level. Mark the second hole, at the base of the keypad, using your sharpened pencil.
Step 6:
Remove Keypad and drill the second hole at the mark you made, using the same 3/32 drill bit as before. Replace keypad and screw in second screw to secure keypad in place.
Step 7:
Insert battery and replace the cover. The wireless keypad is now ready to program. Each brand and model may vary slightly but instructions are included in the box.
My wireless keypad was programmed by pushing the yellow “learn” button on the back of the garage door opener. I knew is was working because a light came on when the yellow button was pressed and released. Next, I entered the four digit code of my choice, followed by holding down the “enter” button until he light blinked on the garage door opener.
BONUS:Â An existing pin can be changed or you can program for more than one garage door opener.
No longer running to open the garage door at a certain time each day so my son can park his bike in the garage after school = Win! If I am not home, he can easily enter the garage and house without the worry of carrying a key all day. In case a trusted friend or relative is going to pet sit, I can program a temporary code so they can get in through the garage. When all the boys go off on their bikes, they can actually shut the garage door behind them instead of leaving it wide open for hours with out me knowing. They can, I’m just not positive that they will.
Hopefully, this tutorial on installing a wireless garage door keypad entry will help motivate if you’ve been hesitant to try. Or, if you were just like me and put it off because you thought it would take longer than it actually does to install. Whatever the case, I hope this helps you to make a house a home.💙
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