What it is
The Model 133 from Open Sesame Door Systems, Inc. is an automatic opener for any free-swinging door, such as a front door, apartment door, office door, or bathroom door. Open Sesame says it can also be used on elevator and lift doors, gates, French or double doors, and storm or screen doors. At the touch of a button, the system releases the latch with an electric strike in the door frame, then opens the door, holds it open, and closes it again. Hold-open time adjusts from 5 to 30 seconds, and the door opens up to 120 degrees. When the opener is not running, its clutch disengages so the door can still be opened by hand, and the unit stops if it meets an obstruction.
A standard one-button remote is included, and Open Sesame says it can be handheld or mounted on a wheelchair. Other activation options listed include wireless push pads, a proximity sensor that opens the door when a smart tag comes within 3, 6, or 9 feet, an outdoor wireless keypad for caregivers and visitors, a sensitive "Spec" switch for people with very limited hand use, and remotes that connect to specialty switches and wheelchair controls. The opener runs on low-voltage 24-volt power from a plug-in adapter (within 30 feet of an outlet), so Open Sesame says no electrician is needed, and most installations take under 2 hours. A built-in battery keeps it working during a power outage. It mounts on the door, on the lintel, or in a parallel mount, for inward or outward opening doors, hinged on either side.
Listed specs: steel housing with powder-coated finish, about 2 5/8 × 4 × 14 1/8 inches, 10 lb. The warranty covers factory parts free for 3 years, then repair or replacement for a fee of no more than $450 for another 10 years. Open Sesame says the openers are assembled in the USA and the company has been family owned since 1991. Open Sesame Door Systems is based in San Leandro, California.
Open Sesame does not list a set price. Pricing depends on the parts and accessories you need, and they sell mainly through a North American network of dealers and installers. You can request a consultation and estimate on their website, and they will refer you to an installer or help train one in your area.
Who it may help
People who find it hard or impossible to unlatch, pull, or push a door on their own, including power wheelchair users and people with limited hand or arm strength, who want to get in and out of their home or a room without help.
Questions to ask your clinician
- Which way of opening the door fits me best: a remote, a push pad, a proximity tag, or a switch connected to my wheelchair controls?
- Which doors in my home matter most, and do they open inward or outward?
- If I rent, what do I need from my landlord before installing a door opener and electric strike?
Paying for it
The cost depends on your door and the accessories you pick, so get a written estimate. Home modification programs, the Department of Rehabilitation, the VA, or a waiver program may help with home access equipment depending on your situation. If cost is the barrier, contact us and we can think it through with you.
Can I see one?
We keep one in our Equipment Library for in-person demos only. Use the form on that page if you want to schedule a demo.
Product page (source for this entry): Open Sesame Model 133 (opens in a new tab). Manufacturer site: Open Sesame Door Systems (opens in a new tab).