Should Changing DIP Switches on the Garage Stop My Neighbor From Opening My Garage?

DIP Switches

• DIP switches control the frequency of your garage door opener. The switches on the mechanism control work with the switches inside your remote. Not every garage door opener uses DIP switches. Those that do have more than 14,000 possible codes that can be used to open the garage door. While you can purchase a new DIP switch module, it may not solve the problem if the new one uses the same frequency as your neighbor. Changing the switch position is easier and less expensive.

Codes

• Garage door openers with DIP switches have codes that can be changed. To change the code, you flip the switches into a new position. The position changes the frequency at which the opener and mechanism communicate. If your neighbor is using the exact same frequency as you, his opener may affect your garage.

Changing the Code

• Go into your garage and look for the mechanism that controls the garage door. It'll be up high so grab a step stool or ladder. Inside the mechanism there are some switches you can flip to different positions. Change them. Open your remote and change the switches in the remote to match those on the garage door opener unit. Close both pieces and check to make sure the new codes work.

Tips

• If you're still having problems, talk to your neighbor. You can check to make sure you have different codes. Electrical shorts in your garage door opener's system and other mechanical errors can also cause your garage door to open randomly. Since an open garage door can be a home security risk, it's important to address any garage door malfunctions immediately.