These were the most common type of opener on older garage doors. They do last a long time if maintained regularly and lubricated annually which is something that needs to be done to all types of openers. The newer chain drives are typically lighter in weight than their predecessors but they still use about the same amount of electricity which makes them more expensive on your energy bill like any other appliance you leave plugged in at home, so unplug it when not in use if possible especially during peak summer months.