SB-969 is a California statute that, as of July 1, 2019, requires all residential garage door openers purchased or installed to have battery backup. Here are some FAQs about the new regulation, as well as ways it may affect individuals living in Los Angeles, CA – Like us!
SB-969 – Who needs it?
The 2017 wildfires, which left people trapped in their garages with no power to the garage door openers, prompted the passage of SB-969. Some persons were unable to lift their garage doors manually and perished as a result.
WHEN REPLACING MY EXISTING GARAGE DOOR OPENER, will I need to purchase a battery backup garage door opener?
Yes. California is the first state to eliminate non-battery garage door openers after July 1, 2019.
Is there any additional condition that would necessitate the usage of a battery backup garage door opener?
If your garage door is being replaced, you’ll need to replace the garage door opener with a battery-powered garage door opener. We recommend installing a battery backup garage door opener on all new garages going forward to ensure they comply with SB-969.
Any other recommendations for the backup battery?
If you’re upgrading to a new garage door opener with a battery backup, make sure it has a fully charged battery. If you don’t have this option, there are several LiftMaster and Chamberlain models on the market today that include it. Some of these are:
The garage door openers market is full of many brands that include a programmable remote. Some examples are Liftmaster 8500W LED and 8550 W model, Chamberlain B1381C guard, and more.
Is there a fine for selling or using a non-battery backup garage door opener after July 1st, 2019, in the State of California?
Yes, each door is expected to be fined $1,000. Consumers or government officials can initiate enforcement actions.
Is it legal to buy a garage door opener in one state and install it in California?
No. Chamberlain and LiftMaster will not provide product assistance for garage door openers bought in California after July 1st, 2019, that do not include a battery.
Is there anything else that I should know about the SB-969 Bill?
Only a battery backup garage door opener should be installed.
What are Chamberlain and LiftMaster doing to educate their clients in California (SB-969)?
All garage door openers that do not meet the SB-969 requirements will be labeled on the package as noncompliant with California law and will not be sold or installed on or after July 1, 2019.
Is there a requirement for an operator to be installed when a non-motorized door is replaced?
A manually operated door is not required to be replaced with a mechanically operated door under the building code.
Is it possible to reconnect a functioning non-BBU operator if a homeowner replaces a door?
No. When replacing a door, the opener must be replaced as well.
Is there any way to have my old LiftMaster and Chamberlain opener fixed?
Yes, you can replace parts of your existing operator. However, a battery-powered garage door opener will be required if the need arises.
Is it true that existing LiftMaster and Chamberlain AC units under warranty are still valid in California?
Yes, as long as no replacements are made, AC models will be covered under warranty.
What kind of opener should I use on heavy carriage house doors? Is there a DC option?
For doors weighing up to 850 pounds, the 8500W is currently the greatest option.
Is it possible to purchase a LiftMaster or Chamberlain battery backup opener in California without having a functioning battery?
All LiftMaster and Chamberlain garage door openers will be sold with a battery included in the price of the opener and the Garage Door Opener box.
What is the expected life span of a LiftMaster and Chamberlain battery backup system?
When operated correctly, a battery typically lasts 1-2 years. To get the most use out of it and avoid damage, unplug the garage door opener when it is not in use for an extended period, such as during the summer or winter season at a house.
Is it legal to use a LiftMaster and Chamberlain garage door opener with a dead battery?
When the battery needs to be replaced, sound and visual indicators notify users according to LiftMaster and Chamberlain’s instructions. When the battery depletes to a point where it can no longer meet the demands of the device, the user must change it.
Why aren’t backup batteries available on openers with DC motors, as with most other brands?
Batteries deliver direct current electricity. DC motors are only accessible to operators who have a battery backup; therefore, the best usage of a battery backup is limited.
Is it possible to connect the LiftMaster and Chamberlain Smart Garage Hub to a non-battery backup operator after SB-969?
Yes, but if the garage door opener is being replaced after July 1st, 2019, it must be returned with one that has a battery backup.
