As one of the most convenient, secure and reliable ways to provide access control and security to your home or business, electric gates are an essential feature for many property owners. However, like any other mechanical or electrical equipment, electric gates may encounter problems like motor failure, misalignment or damage, which restrict their proper functioning. If you are facing such issues, repairing your electric gates is a smart and cost-effective option rather than going for a full replacement. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about how to repair electric gates and how to diagnose, troubleshoot and fix common electric gating problems.
Step 1: Inspection and Identification of the Problem
Before attempting any electrical or mechanical repair or inspection, it is essential to take safety precautions by powering off the gate and ensuring that the gate cannot be moved by its mechanical system. Once you have ensured your safety, the first step is to do a full inspection of the gate to determine the issue causing the malfunction. In general, the most common issues with electric gates are:
• Stuck or Unresponsive Gate
If your electric gate is stuck in one position or not responding to opening or closing commands, the likely cause is a motor problem such as dead batteries or motor failure. Another possible cause could be alignment issues which can prevent the gate from closing fully, or damage to the track or rollers.
• Faulty Remote or Keypad
If you have lost access or control to your electric gate system, the remote or keypad could be the issue. This could be due to dead batteries in the remote, faulty wiring in the control panel, or a lockout on the keypad.
• Excessive Noise
If your electric gate system has an excessively noisy motor or makes a lot of noise when opening or closing, there could be an issue with the mechanical components such as the motor, gearbox or roller bearings.
Step 2: DIY Repair Strategies
If you have identified the issue with your electric gate, the next step is to start repairing the gate with the appropriate tools and parts. Here are some of the common DIY repair strategies that you can use to fix electric gates:
• Replacing the Batteries and Fuses
Dead batteries or blown fuses are the easiest and most common issues that can cause your electric gates to malfunction. These are easy DIY fixes that do not require the help of an expert. Simply replace the batteries with a new set of high-quality and compatible batteries and check for any fuse issues.
• Motor Replacement
Incase the motor is unable to operate, it may need to be replaced. Replacement is a rather straightforward process so long as you have the right tools and knowledge.
• Cleaning the Track and Rollers
If you have identified that the gate’s mechanical system has alignment issues causing opening and closing problems, cleaning the track, rollers and any debris blocking the gate’s movement can help fix the problem. This can be achieved by using a wire brush to clean the track and using lubricant on the rollers.
Step 3: Assistance from a Professional
If you are unable to diagnose the issue with your electric gate, you should consider seeking the services of a professional technician. An electric gate technician can help you troubleshoot and fix complex gate issues such as complex wiring issues, alignment, and mechanical issues that cannot be fixed through basic DIY repair strategies. When seeking professional assistance, be sure to choose a qualified and experienced electric gate technician to ensure quality service and successful repair outcomes.
FAQS
Q. Can I do electric gate repair myself?
Yes, you can do basic electric gate repair yourself. However, for complicated issues, a professional technician should be consulted to guarantee quality workmanship.
Q. What are the components of an electric gate?
The components of an electric gate include the gate operator, arm, gate tracks, rollers, and control unit.
Q. Why is my electric gate failing to close fully?
Failing to close fully could be due to the alignment of the tracks or rollers. Dirt buildup and obstruction on the tracks and rollers can also prevent the gate from closing fully.
Q. How often should I maintain my electric gate?
Maintenance frequency depends on various factors such as the frequency of use, gate type and location. In general, it’s wise to have your electric gate inspected and maintained at least twice a year.
Conclusion
Electric gates are essential for ensuring safety, security and convenience for property owners. When faced with issues with your electric gates, diagnosing, troubleshooting and repairing the issue is essential to avoid full gate replacement costs. We hope that our comprehensive guide on how to repair electric gates will help you save costs and provide valuable insight into common electric gating issues. Remember, safety first when attempting any troubleshooting and repairs, and if you are unsure, consult a licensed professional to avoid any safety and damage risks.
