[iamrfixit]

Another security issue, even with the opener unplugged, a garage door is VERY easy to open. You simply have to lift the door.
Home owners, double check your garage door security, you'd be surprised how easy it is to break into!

This is not true.

The door is locked solidly to the opener, the opener motor is connected inside the unit by a worm drive assembly. Pulling the door up cannot spin the opener motor through the worm drive. If the opener is properly attached to the door the only way the door can be lifted manually is if the emergency rope is pulled.

 

[iamrfixit]

Not mine, it can be either opened by the opener, or manually. There's a pull cord above to slide the door up. I usually just use one of the middle latches and pull up with my finger.

You have to trip the emergency release to raise the door manually?
Can you trip the release from outside?

Any opener I have ever seen or installed has a release cord on the inside of the door. This allows the door to be easily lifted manually in the event of power failure or problems with the opener.

That doesn't mean the door is not securely locked from the outside. If you have to already be inside the garage to trip the release that is not really what I would consider a break-in.

I have installed openers with provisions to pull the release from outside, these require a key to do so. Installs like this are for garages where the overhead door is the only entry.

 

[iamrfixit]

I can lift it from outside, but it's just there's not much grip so it's hard to do. The cord does not really release anything, it just pulls on the chain which pulls the door up/down. I can also just grab one of the center hinges of the door and pull up.

Sounds like you need a new opener.

I have installed and repaired hundreds of openers and have never seen one that would allow the door to be lifted manually without first tripping the emergency release. Either something is broken, worn out or not installed correctly. Most would not even close the door without the door solidly connected to the opener trolley. A properly adjusted door wants to stay open, the opener has to push it at least partway down before gravity will take over.

The timer mechanism and all the extra locking chains kinda negate the purpose of even having the door opener. If you have to get out to unlock, then close and re-lock you may as well just remove it and install a slide latch. Not saying that is a bad thing but I kinda like just pushing the button when it is sub zero or pouring rain.

A modern basic opener will have rolling code technology, auto reversing, and safety photo eyes. It will actually lock the door in the closed position, can be had for around $130 and is an easy diy project.