Genie SilentMax 1200 Review

Almost all garage door openers can be divided according to the mechanism which lifts the door. We have a chain or belt-drive models. Chain drive units are more affordable, while belt-drive units are superior. Genie has plenty of affordable, therefore chain-driven models on the market, but a few which feature belt drive. The Genie SilentMax 1200 is one of them. But, there are a lot of facts you should know first.

Product overview

Let’s start with a design. The Genie SilentMax 1200 is probably one of the best-looking garage door openers available on the market at this moment. We liked the blue frame and white cover. Furthermore, the colors are heavy-duty, meaning that they will stay as they are for a long period of time. Don’t forget that this type of quality refers to all elements of a unit in question. It is reliable and well-made.

In the package, you get all you are going to need for the installation process. This includes the main console, wall console, wireless card, two remote controllers and the motor, of course.

When it comes to the smoothness of the operation, you will be surprised. It is a bit quieter than some, more expensive models and it is powerful enough to lift most doors, thanks to ¾ HP electric motor of the newer generation. The limit is 550 pounds. We must add that the electric motor and the belt-drive system are well-paired and work like a charm. Here we can see another advantage of belt-driven garage door openers. They put less stress on the electric motor, so these units usually last longer than chain-driven alternatives.

Other things you should know about this unit is that it is perfect for garages which are located next to bedrooms, it is easy to install and overall quality is decent. Don’t forget that this is one of the most affordable, belt-drive garage door openers, so don’t expect too much from it.

Product Advantages

Being one of a kind model right now, the Genie SilentMax 1200 has some, impressive advantages to offer. Most owners who already have this unit agree with us and they are still perfectly satisfied with the unit.

Sophisticated belt-drive system

The belt-drive system we have here is based on the latest generation and actually commonly seen in some, more expensive models. We liked the fact it is reliable, quiet and appealing in the lack of a better word.

Quicker than other models

Surprisingly, this is one of the fastest garage door openers on the market right now. It opens doors up to 9 inches per second movement, while most of other alternatives can reach 7 or 8 inches per second movement. You are going to like this advantage.

DC electric motor

DC electric motors are newer and more sophisticated than AC versions. We can find them in modern devices and they are more reliable. At the same time, they are compatible with latest accessories.

Smooth operations

If you know all of which we have mentioned, it isn’t difficult to deduce that door opening and closing is smooth. As a matter of fact, the garage door opener has a powerful electric motor and strong belt system. Combined they run smoothly and without an issue.

Steel reinforcements

Another advantage which has to be mentioned. The belt-drive system, alongside rail, comes with reinforcements made from steel. Combined, they make the entire system more reliable and more durable. Even better, the manufacturer used a high-quality steel, so it is going to last.

Diagnostic technology

Although it isn’t new type of technology, it is rarely seen in garage door openers of this price range. The Genie SilentMax 1200 may be one of a few models which come with this feature. It allows you to scan the entire system and to display a problem if it appears. This makes maintenance easier and reduces the time needed for a repair.

Wireless card support

In the package, you get a wireless card which allows you to open the door without a remote controller. Once again, this is common for high-end models, but for this price range, it isn’t. We liked the fact the Genie SilentMax 1200 comes equipped with it and the fact it supports it.

Design of the elements

The design is more than just appealing. It refers to the remote controllers and the wall console. Both of them look modern and sophisticated. Some models which are members of a higher range have remote controllers which look obsolete. Here, you get the latest looks.

Product Critique

The first issue we discovered is the look of the keypad. It looks like it came from the 90s, which isn’t appealing. It is unclear why this manufacturer chose the design we can see when all the rest of the unit is modern and sophisticated. Of course, this is an individual matter, but most of the users still don’t like the look of the keypad. There are countless possibilities Genie could choose, so we have to list this is a drawback. In some case scenarios, you may actually like the design.

The second drawback is the lack of rail assembly for garage doors with 8 feet or above. In the package, you get a rail for doors of 7 feet, period. Additionally, you will have to purchase the extension kit in order to fit this unit to the 8-feet door. Yes, most models have extension kits, but they are used for garage doors of 10 feet. Pay attention to your requirements before you make a final decision.

Other than these two issues, we haven’t discovered anything which may be a drawback. The model is well-made and comes with most features you are going to need.

Safety and Security

Safety features start with rolling code technology. It is a well-known system which is present in almost all garage door openers and it should be explained by now. Just in case, you will have to know that the system uses a different code each time you open or close the door, which makes it impossible for a thief or a burglar to obtain the code. It is known as intelli-code system as well. It is still one of the safest and the most reliable safety systems available in garage door openers.

But, here we have another safety feature. The model comes with the Sure-Lock system. What it does is eliminates the use of remote controllers. In simple words, once activated, remotes won’t be able to open the door. This is especially important if you are on vacation and you are looking for the ultimate way to secure your garage and house. Keep in mind that the system is located and operated from the wall console and it is extremely easy to get used to it.

Technology which detects the obstacle when the door is closed is present as well. It uses infrared sensors which will detect any object or a person and prevent closure. Just in case, the system will start re-opening the door if something or someone is detected.

Installation and Programing

The installation isn’t very complicated. You will get a decent manual which can be used to guide you through the entire process. It is actually slightly better than some other models have it. On the hand, this isn’t one of the easiest garage door openers to install. As a matter of fact, it is one of a bit more complicated. Be prepared to analyze the guide you will get and to seek for online help if you are going to install it all by yourself. In a case you hire a professional, the installation will take less than one hour.

Programming on other hand is more than just simple. As we have mentioned, the instructions are clear and helpful. Even if this is your first garage door opener you won’t have a hard time programming it for the first use.

Warranty and Support

Warranty on the electric motor is a lifetime, meaning that you get the best of the best. However, it is 5 years for other elements, which isn’t perfect. Luckily, this system is based on the latest technology which should protect the inner components and prolong the lifespan of them, so you don’t have to worry about the warranty.

Support is decent and you will get any type of help within 24 hours. You can call the support agents. They are well-trained and helpful.

Conclusion

The Genie SilentMax 1200 is a budget garage door opener which truly has a lot to offer. It has superb DC electric motor, the belt-drive system and it comes with all the features you are going to need. This model is suitable for homeowners who are looking for an affordable unit, which is still quiet and has a powerful electric motor. In essence, this is the main advantage of all garage door openers with a belt-drive mechanism, but this one adds great value for money as well. Read our ultimate buying guide to see what is the best wifi garage door opener.