Keeping your electric gate running smoothly isnt just about convenience; its about security and peace of mind. Regular maintenance can prevent most common issues, but sometimes problems pop up anyway. Knowing how to troubleshoot them can save you time, money, and frustration waiting for a technician.
One of the most frequent complaints is a gate that simply wont open or close. Before you panic, check the obvious things. Is the power supply working? A tripped breaker or a blown fuse is an easy fix. Next, examine the gates track for obstructions – leaves, debris, or even a misplaced toy can jam the mechanism. If the track is clear, the problem might be with the remote control. Try replacing the batteries or reprogramming it. If none of these work, the issue might lie with the gate opener motor itself, and its time to call a professional.
Another common issue is a gate that opens or closes erratically. This could be due to a faulty sensor. Sensors ensure the gate stops if it encounters an obstacle. Clean the sensors and check their alignment – sometimes they just need a minor adjustment. If the problem persists, a faulty sensor might need replacing. Limit switches, which tell the gate when to stop in the fully open or closed position, can also cause erratic behavior if theyre misaligned or damaged.
Unusual noises, like grinding or squeaking, are another sign of trouble. Regular lubrication of the moving parts, like hinges, chains, and tracks, can prevent this. If the noise persists after lubrication, there might be a more serious issue with the motor or other internal components.
Finally, if your gate seems to be operating slower than usual, the problem might be with the openers force settings. These settings control the power with which the gate opens and closes. Over time, they might need adjustment due to wear and tear or changes in weather conditions. However, be cautious when adjusting these settings – too much force can damage the gate, while too little can prevent it from operating properly.
Troubleshooting these common electric gate issues yourself can often resolve the problem quickly. However, if youre uncomfortable working with electrical components or if the issue persists, its always best to call a qualified technician. Regular maintenance and a bit of know-how can keep your electric gate operating smoothly for years to come.
The eternal struggle: wrench in hand, YouTube tutorial open on your greasy phone, versus the reassuring (but potentially wallet-draining) call to a professional. When it comes to regular maintenance, knowing whether to DIY or call in the pros is a constant balancing act. Theres no one-size-fits-all answer, and the right choice depends on a complex interplay of factors.
Lets face it, the allure of DIY is strong. Theres the undeniable satisfaction of fixing something yourself, the feeling of self-sufficiency, and, of course, the potential cost savings. Changing your cars air filter, patching a small hole in the drywall, or cleaning your gutters – these are all tasks many of us can tackle with a little research and the right tools. The internet is a treasure trove of information, and for simple tasks, a well-made video can be all you need.
However, the DIY route isnt always a smooth one. What starts as a simple oil change can quickly escalate into a frustrating mess if you strip a bolt or spill oil all over your driveway. Incorrectly performed maintenance can actually lead to more damage and higher repair costs down the line. And lets not forget the value of time. What might seem like a quick fix can easily eat up an entire Saturday afternoon.
Thats where the professionals come in. They have the experience, the specialized tools, and the know-how to handle tasks quickly and efficiently. A qualified mechanic can diagnose and fix car problems you might miss, a licensed electrician can safely rewire your kitchen, and a professional plumber can prevent that small leak from turning into a major flood. While it comes with a price tag, professional maintenance offers peace of mind and often saves you from costly mistakes.
So, how do you decide? Honestly, it comes down to a personal assessment. Consider your skills, your available time, the complexity of the task, and the potential consequences of getting it wrong. For simple, low-risk tasks, DIY might be the perfect solution. But when dealing with complex systems, potentially dangerous situations, or when your skills are simply lacking, calling a professional is the smartest and often most economical choice in the long run. Sometimes, knowing your limitations is the most important skill of all.
Maintaining Electric Gate Safety and Security: Regular Maintenance
Electric gates offer convenience and security, but like any mechanical system, they require regular maintenance to ensure they operate safely and effectively. Neglecting maintenance can lead to malfunctions, security vulnerabilities, and potentially dangerous situations. A well-maintained gate provides peace of mind, knowing your property and loved ones are protected.
Regular maintenance should encompass several key areas. First and foremost are the mechanical components. Keeping hinges lubricated and tracks clear of debris prevents wear and tear, ensuring smooth operation and extending the lifespan of the gate. Check for loose bolts and tighten them as needed. Pay close attention to the gates movement; any jerky motions or unusual noises could indicate a developing problem.
Next, the electric components demand attention. Regularly inspect the wiring for signs of damage, such as fraying or corrosion. Ensure all connections are secure and free from moisture. Test the gates safety features, including obstacle detection sensors and emergency release mechanisms. These features are crucial for preventing accidents and should be in perfect working order.
The control system is the brain of the electric gate. Remote controls, keypads, and other access devices should be checked for proper functioning. Replace batteries as needed and ensure the systems software is up-to-date for optimal performance and security. Consider periodic professional inspections to identify potential issues you might overlook.
Finally, consider the surrounding environment. Trim back any vegetation that could interfere with the gates operation. Ensure the area around the gate is well-lit to deter intruders and enhance visibility. Regularly inspect the gate for any signs of damage or tampering.
By diligently attending to these maintenance tasks, you can significantly enhance the safety, security, and longevity of your electric gate. A little preventative maintenance goes a long way in protecting your investment and ensuring continued peace of mind.
Future-proofing your electric gate isnt just about fancy gadgets; good old-fashioned regular maintenance plays a huge role. Think of it like a car – you wouldnt expect it to run smoothly without regular oil changes and tune-ups. The same principle applies to your gate. Consistent maintenance is the bedrock upon which all other upgrades and enhancements rest. Without it, even the most advanced technology wont perform optimally.
So, what does regular maintenance entail? First, keep it clean. Dirt, grime, and debris can interfere with the mechanics of the gate, causing it to stick, jam, or even break down. A simple wash down with a hose every few months and a more thorough cleaning annually can make a world of difference. Next, lubricate moving parts. Hinges, chains, and tracks need regular lubrication to prevent wear and tear and ensure smooth operation. Check the manufacturers instructions for the recommended lubricant and frequency.
Regularly inspect the gate for any signs of damage or wear. Look for loose screws, damaged hinges, or anything that seems out of place. Catching these small issues early can prevent them from developing into bigger, more expensive problems down the line. And finally, dont forget the power source. For solar-powered gates, ensure the panels are clean and free from obstructions. For hardwired gates, check the wiring for any signs of damage or corrosion.
By diligently following these simple maintenance steps, youre not just keeping your gate running smoothly today, youre also extending its lifespan and preparing it for future upgrades. A well-maintained gate is a more reliable gate, and that translates to increased security and peace of mind for years to come. Its the unglamorous but essential foundation of a truly future-proof electric gate.
A fence is a structure that encloses an area, typically outdoors, and is usually constructed from posts that are connected by boards, wire, rails or netting.[1] A fence differs from a wall in not having a solid foundation along its whole length.[2]
Alternatives to fencing include a ditch (sometimes filled with water, forming a moat).
A balustrade or railing is a fence to prevent people from falling over an edge, most commonly found on a stairway, landing, or balcony. Railing systems and balustrades are also used along roofs, bridges, cliffs, pits, and bodies of water.
Another aim of using fence is to limit the intrusion attempt into a property by malicious intruders. In support of these barriers there are sophisticated technologies that can be applied on fence itself and strengthen the defence of territory reducing the risk.
The elements that reinforce the perimeter protection are:
In most developed areas the use of fencing is regulated, variously in commercial, residential, and agricultural areas. Height, material, setback, and aesthetic issues are among the considerations subject to regulation.
The following types of areas or facilities often are required by law to be fenced in, for safety and security reasons:
Servitudes[6] are legal arrangements of land use arising out of private agreements. Under the feudal system, most land in England was cultivated in common fields, where peasants were allocated strips of arable land that were used to support the needs of the local village or manor. By the sixteenth century the growth of population and prosperity provided incentives for landowners to use their land in more profitable ways, dispossessing the peasantry. Common fields were aggregated and enclosed by large and enterprising farmers—either through negotiation among one another or by lease from the landlord—to maximize the productivity of the available land and contain livestock. Fences redefined the means by which land is used, resulting in the modern law of servitudes.[7]
In the United States, the earliest settlers claimed land by simply fencing it in. Later, as the American government formed, unsettled land became technically owned by the government and programs to register land ownership developed, usually making raw land available for low prices or for free, if the owner improved the property, including the construction of fences. However, the remaining vast tracts of unsettled land were often used as a commons, or, in the American West, "open range" as degradation of habitat developed due to overgrazing and a tragedy of the commons situation arose, common areas began to either be allocated to individual landowners via mechanisms such as the Homestead Act and Desert Land Act and fenced in, or, if kept in public hands, leased to individual users for limited purposes, with fences built to separate tracts of public and private land.
Ownership of a fence on a boundary varies. The last relevant original title deed(s)[8] and a completed seller's property information form may document which side has to put up and has installed any fence respectively; the first using "T" marks/symbols (the side with the "T" denotes the owner); the latter by a ticked box to the best of the last owner's belief with no duty, as the conventionally agreed conveyancing process stresses, to make any detailed, protracted enquiry.[9] Commonly the mesh or panelling is in mid-position. Otherwise it tends to be on non-owner's side so the fence owner might access the posts when repairs are needed but this is not a legal requirement.[10] Where estate planners wish to entrench privacy a close-boarded fence or equivalent well-maintained hedge of a minimum height may be stipulated by deed. Beyond a standard height planning permission is necessary.
Where a rural fence or hedge has (or in some cases had) an adjacent ditch, the ditch is normally in the same ownership as the hedge or fence, with the ownership boundary being the edge of the ditch furthest from the fence or hedge.[11] The principle of this rule is that an owner digging a boundary ditch will normally dig it up to the very edge of their land, and must then pile the spoil on their own side of the ditch to avoid trespassing on their neighbour. They may then erect a fence or hedge on the spoil, leaving the ditch on its far side. Exceptions exist in law, for example where a plot of land derives from subdivision of a larger one along the centre line of a previously existing ditch or other feature, particularly where reinforced by historic parcel numbers with acreages beneath which were used to tally up a total for administrative units not to confirm the actual size of holdings, a rare instance where Ordnance Survey maps often provide more than circumstantial evidence namely as to which feature is to be considered the boundary.
On private land in the United Kingdom, it is the landowner's responsibility to fence their livestock in. Conversely, for common land, it is the surrounding landowners' duty to fence the common's livestock out such as in large parts of the New Forest. Large commons with livestock roaming have been greatly reduced by 18th and 19th century Acts for enclosure of commons covering most local units, with most remaining such land in the UK's National Parks.
A 19th-century law requires railways to be fenced to keep people and livestock out.[12] It is also illegal to trespass on railways, incurring a fine of up to £1000.
Distinctly different land ownership and fencing patterns arose in the eastern and western United States. Original fence laws on the east coast were based on the British common law system, and rapidly increasing population quickly resulted in laws requiring livestock to be fenced in. In the west, land ownership patterns and policies reflected a strong influence of Spanish law and tradition, plus the vast land area involved made extensive fencing impractical until mandated by a growing population and conflicts between landowners. The "open range" tradition of requiring landowners to fence out unwanted livestock was dominant in most of the rural west until very late in the 20th century, and even today, a few isolated regions of the west still have open range statutes on the books. More recently, fences are generally constructed on the surveyed property line as precisely as possible. Today, across the nation, each state is free to develop its own laws regarding fences. In many cases for both rural and urban property owners, the laws were designed to require adjacent landowners to share the responsibility for maintaining a common boundary fenceline. Today, however, only 22 states have retained that provision.
Some U.S. states, including Texas, Illinois, Missouri, and North Carolina, have enacted laws establishing that purple paint markings on fences (or trees) are the legal equivalent of "No Trespassing" signs. The laws are meant to spare landowners, particularly in rural areas, from having to continually replace printed signs that often end up being stolen or obliterated by the elements.[13]
The value of fences and the metaphorical significance of a fence, both positive and negative, has been extensively utilized throughout western culture. A few examples include:
Notes
Bibliography
An electric gate is a type of gate that can be opened and closed using an electrically powered mechanism.
Driveway gate openers can be the rollback (sliding) type that retracts a gate along the fence or wall on wheels or bearing, or the swing type that draws the gate open or closed on hinges. They are usually operated by a remote controller or a sensor
Articulated gate openers can be used for gates with wide posts allowing opening in small spaces.[1] An easy system for DIY installers as they are simple to install but not as aesthetically pleasing as other motor designs. Also known as Crank arm operators, they are the main type of automation system sold in France, where low aluminium gates are often used.
Under-gate Jack operators usually control the gate by directly moving the pivot point of each gate leaf. This makes the unit ideal cosmetically and also allows for up to 180 degrees of leaf swing as required. However controlling the pivot point of the gate, is like opening a door by twisting the hinge, and as so is very difficult due to the loads needed at that point. This is highlighted with snap, as the gate has to change direct, as soon as it can. For this reason they are recommend as only suitable for ‘Domestic’ systems in a low risk of abuse environment. Another major consideration with the use of under-gate units is that of water immersion/ingress and warranty voidance. If the water table is high or the drainage of the unit's foundation box inadequate throughout the systems life, then water ingress and unit failure is increased.
Ram or link arm units are usually simpler to install and maintain, they are visible to otherwise ignorant abuse and as they fix down along each gate leaf, they also have an obvious and sometimes major, mechanical advantage over Jacks. Therefore, Rams are far more suitable on Multi-user & commercial systems. Also the manual release is always above ground, making it often more user friendly in operation.
If space is an issue or the driveway behind the gates is on a steep incline, a better option would be a sliding gate. Sliding gates are also very popular in a commercial environment. Sliding gates are also used for cantilever gate systems.
One of the first electric gates was invented by a Canadian Fred W. Watson in 1881. It was designed to be used for railway systems.[2] In 1884, a number of American newspapers reported that the French railway companies were about to adopt an electric gate opener. “A catch connected with an electro-magnet keeps a gate closed,” reported The National Tribune on October 9, 1884.[3] One of the early demonstrations of such gates in the United States was arranged by the short-lived Toulmin Electric Railway Gate Company in 1887, in Baltimore.[4] At the end of the 19th century, electric gates were also used at horse racing tracks.[5]
The first commercial electric gate systems were hydraulic and designed for reliability and ease of use. The cost of the hydraulic systems however meant that other companies started producing more affordable electromechanical alternatives. Hydraulic motors are the preferred choice on large and heavy gates as they can generate high levels of torque, electromechanical systems designed for lower usage domestic installations because they can be produced more cost effectively.[6]
The backbone of any electric gate, whether automatic or not, is the electric gate motor, two distinct motor types exist hydraulic, or electromechanical. This is the electric device which actually enables the electric gate to open and close without having to manually push the gate.
The safety of an automated gate is an important consideration, in the European Union, automated gate safety is specified by a series of European Normalisations. An automated gate that has not been fitted with safety in mind can potentially become a major hazard particularly to untrained users. Various safety devices are available to make sure that your gates meet the highest of European or American safety standards.
Since electric gates operate slowly, they are susceptible to "tailgating" threats, in which a person or vehicle sneaks in behind an authorized user.[7] If security is a concern, a video surveillance camera should be installed.[7]
Electric gates alone, however solid and imposing they may be, cannot guarantee a completely secure environment electric locks, are often needed to boost the locking effectiveness of the gate motors. Electric gates are recommended to be used in combination with other security features to install a full security system. A few of these features are closed circuits with security cameras, additional gates in conjunction with the main gate, electronic keycards and keypads, security guards.[8]
Aside from the additional security features that should go with parking barrier gates, electric security gates often offer safety features like sensors that determine when there is an obstruction to prevent the electronic gate from swinging into a vehicle or closing on somebody's hands. To prevent the electronic gates from being damaged by irresponsible drivers driving fast speed bumps are also commonly placed before gate entrances to slow down vehicles.
In the United States all the electric gate installations must meet Underwriters Laboratories 325 (UL 325) standard while in Europe installations must meet with the Machinery directive 2006/42/EC with EN13241-1 being the regulations concerning gates.[9][10][11][12]
The installer of the gate is responsible for the conformity to regulation, not the manufacturer. The two main EN regulations that then apply are EN 12453 which describes the safety levels that should be observed when installing a gate and EN12445 which describes the testing method that must be undertaken.[13]
The major points are the maximum amount of force at certain test points. Example - a maximum of 400N of force can be applied in the last 50, 300 and 500 mm of travel of a gate, after the initial impact the force must drop to 150N within 0.75 of a second and reduce to 25N within 5 seconds. During the mid travel of a gate the allowable force is 1400N. A full risk assessment of the gates must take place with all crush, cutting points shown to the client with appropriate protection devices offered, a recommended maintenance program should also be provided. Finally the installer must confirm that all electrical equipment fitted has the European CE mark all the time.
To conform to these regulations the gate system must be checked with a calibrated force tester and the full results kept in a technical file for 7 years. If the gate is not tested it does not comply.
Most gate kits can be fitted with safety equipment so that these limits are achieved and so cover that part of EN13241-1.
In September 2010, following two incidents in Bridgend and Manchester, when children were killed by sliding gates, the UK Health and Safety Executive issued 2 safety notices aimed at gate manufacturers and installers, demanding them to comply with the Annex A of BS EN 12453:2001 standard.[14][15]
In recent years, aluminium has emerged as the material of choice for driveway gates in the UK, and for good reason. One of the key reasons for this shift is the ease with which aluminium gates can meet force limitation guidance. Force limitation refers to the maximum amount of force that a gate can exert on an object or person, ensuring safety and minimizing the risk of accidents or injuries. With lightweight aluminium gates, meeting these force limitation guidelines becomes much more achievable, as they require less force to open and close compared to heavier materials such as wrought iron or steel.
Another advantage of aluminium gates is their compatibility with brushless motor operators. Brushless motors offer numerous benefits over traditional brushed motors, including higher efficiency, longer lifespan, and reduced maintenance requirements. Aluminium gates, being lightweight, work well with brushless motor operators, as the motors do not have to work as hard to maneuver the gates. This not only enhances the overall performance and reliability of the gate system but also contributes to energy efficiency, leading to cost savings in the long run.
Furthermore, aluminium gates provide additional advantages such as resistance to rust and corrosion, making them a durable and low-maintenance option. They are also highly customizable, allowing homeowners to choose from a wide range of designs, colors, and finishes to match their aesthetic preferences. Additionally, aluminium is a sustainable material as it can be recycled, aligning with the growing trend of eco-consciousness in the construction and home improvement industries.
[16]
Overall, the combination of meeting force limitation guidance more easily, compatibility with brushless motor operators, durability, low maintenance, and customizability has made aluminium the material of choice for driveway gates in the UK. With its numerous benefits, it offers homeowners a reliable, safe, and aesthetically pleasing option for enhancing the security and curb appeal of their properties.
A gate or gateway is a point of entry to or from a space enclosed by walls. The word is derived from Proto-Germanic *gatan, meaning an opening or passageway.[1] Synonyms include yett (which comes from the same root word) and portal. The concept originally referred to the gap or hole in the wall or fence, rather than a barrier which closed it. Gates may prevent or control the entry or exit of individuals, or they may be merely decorative. The moving part or parts of a gateway may be considered "doors", as they are fixed at one side whilst opening and closing like one.[2]
A gate may have a latch that can be raised and lowered to both open a gate or prevent it from swinging.[3] Gate operation can be either automated or manual. Locks are also used on gates to increase security.
Larger gates can be used for a whole building, such as a castle or fortified town. Doors can also be considered gates when they are used to block entry as prevalent within a gatehouse.
Evergreen Electric Gates installed a gate at my entrance a couple of days back. Logan was very helpful in answering all my doubts. His crew did a fantastic job. The gate is visually impressive and the pricing was highly reasonable. I am extremely pleased with their quality of work and service!
I highly recommend Evegreen Electric Gate ! Logan and his crew were professional, friendly, and easy to work with. Gate posts, automatic gate, and fence were completed well and in a timely fashion.
After completing an inquiry on their website, we received a prompt response which was refreshing. They sent David out to come see what we wanted, took measurements & notes and was very professional & personable! It was a pleasure working with him from start to finish! The installation team lead by Roberto was also dedicated & precise, making sure we got what we wanted! We couldn’t be happier with the outcome! Awesome gate, glides easy & so happy we can latch & lock! THANK YOU TO ALL THE STAFF & TEAM! We’re extremely pleased and grateful!
Logan was prompt and arrived as scheduled and was very polite and friendly. We took the time to discuss my options, as was very clear about the costs. The steel gate itself was fine, so we only needed an installation of new LiftMaster dual swing gate system. Though my gate required the fabrication of new mounting arms, Logan fabricated, welded, and painted them on site. Logan offered us a price that was very fair; he was able to get us scheduled within the next week, and and the installation job was completed in less than a day. Thank you Logan and Evergreen Electric Gates NW.