6 Problems With Automatic Gates and How to Fix Them

Automatic Gates
  • Author: Fazal Umer
  • Posted On: July 13, 2023
  • Updated On: July 13, 2023

Automatic gates are highly convenient since they allow for quick access and allow drivers to access the driveway without having to get out of their vehicles. Instead, drivers can easily and quickly open the gate with a simple swipe of a card or touch of a button.

Like most technology, however, sliding gates aren’t immune to problems. Automatic gates can still cause headaches for homeowners in several different ways. These issues need to be addressed immediately, otherwise, the gate may become damaged beyond repair and need to be replaced. Visit https://gatesandautomationdirect.co.uk/product-category/aluminium-gates/ for a range of gates to suit every home.  

Here are 6 of the most common issues with automatic gates and how to fix them without too much of a hassle. Read on to learn more.

Large Amounts of Noise

Automatic gates can sometimes generate a lot of noise for reasons that aren’t always immediately apparent. A grinding sound could mean that the mechanism responsible for moving the gates together and apart could have become worn out. 

Fortunately, the aforementioned problem can be addressed in 1 or 2 ways: either have a new part fitted or have the mechanism taken apart and reassembled.

Insects and Vermin

The way automatic gates work is by using motion-triggering sensors. If the sensors are blocked, however, the automatic gate simply won’t open. Vermin and insects can get into the dark spaces the gate provides thus causing an obstruction.

To ensure that the sensor works perfectly at all times, you need to always keep the inside of the automatic gate clear of small insects and dirt. Mold and moss can also cause a similar obstruction and should therefore be cleared away as soon as possible.

Power Outage

Automatic gates must have a constant supply of electricity to work properly. Cutouts and power failures can easily prevent the gates from functioning properly. In case there is a power outage in your area, you need to ensure that you check for any blown fuse. You can restore power by putting the blown fuse back in position.

Faulty Remote Control

The automatic gate’s remote control must be kept in good working condition to make sure it can open the gate without any issues. Still, the batteries will inevitably start fading, so always check whether the red light is failing to ‘blink’. If that’s the case, replace the batteries. If the problem persists, replace the remote control.

Obstructions in the Gate Tracks

The automatic gate’s tracks should always be kept clear to ensure that the gate opens and closes smoothly. Debris in the gate’s track can cause the gate to get stuck thus failing to open or close properly. Any debris should be swept up on a regular basis to ensure that this problem never arises.

Manual Mode

Automatic gates can sometimes get stuck in manual mode. This could be a problem with the opening mechanism of the gate or the remote control’s batteries.

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Author: Fazal Umer

Fazal is a dedicated industry expert in the field of civil engineering. As an Editor at ConstructionHow, he leverages his experience as a civil engineer to enrich the readers looking to learn a thing or two in detail in the respective field. Over the years he has provided written verdicts to publications and exhibited a deep-seated value in providing informative pieces on infrastructure, construction, and design.

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