A top-rated automatic electric gate openers can add value to your property. They are convenient and easy to use, offering features like remote access, smartphone app integration, and security cameras.
Considered a necessity by many homeowners, automatic gate openers make it possible to open and close a residential or commercial gate with the press of a button. Some models also come with safety sensors that prevent the gate from closing on a vehicle.
Security
Whether your property is residential, commercial, or industrial, an electric gate can improve security by controlling access and preventing unwanted intruders. It can also enhance efficiency by streamlining traffic flow, and it can add value to your home or business by providing convenience and advanced technology features.
Safety features include sensors that detect obstacles and alert you if the gate is moving towards them. These devices can help you avoid accidents and injuries by immediately stopping or reversing the gate. Some openers also come with a manual release feature that allows you to manually open the gate in case of power failure or emergency.
Other security features can prevent unauthorized access to your property by eliminating the need for keys or remotes. Keypads and intercom systems allow you to assign codes to family members, guests, or employees, making it easy to control who has access to your property. They can also increase privacy by blocking the view of vehicles and pedestrians from the street.
Convenience
Many people choose to install gate openers on their residential or commercial properties because of the heightened level of security they provide. By eliminating the need for a person to get out of their vehicle and physically open and close their gates, these systems protect property owners and tenants from unauthorized access.
Aside from offering security features, these systems also offer convenience to homeowners and businesses. By allowing users to remotely open and close their gates, these systems can help them avoid extreme weather conditions and the risk of getting hit by passersby or children.
Additionally, these systems are equipped with safety sensors to prevent accidental collisions. Some models even come with manual release mechanisms, ensuring that people can still enter and exit their property during a power outage. Depending on their needs, these units can be powered by traditional AC power or solar and battery backup systems. These alternatives can help reduce energy costs and are eco-friendly.
Maintenance
Whether you choose to access your gate with remote controls, keypads or a smartphone app, it will function optimally only if you regularly maintain the system. Ensure that all components work as they should to avoid costly repairs.
Check for signs of damage such as frayed wires. Keep in mind that insects, reptiles and rodents can also impact how your gate functions, especially if they get into the circuit board. For example, snails and slugs can corrode circuit boards while mice can chew through or urinate on important wires.
Lubricate the motor, wheels and hinges with a compatible lubricant. WD-40 will do in an emergency, but a silicon base lubricant is best for long-term use. Many swing gates have internal chains that can benefit from lubrication too. Be sure to clean the photo beam periodically, wiping away water droplets and ensuring that it is correctly aligned. You can do this with a photo beam tester from most big box retailers or simply by using a flashlight.
Installation
Electric gates offer convenience, security, and enhanced property aesthetics. But they do require careful installation, as well as regular maintenance to ensure safety and function. Hiring a professional to install an automatic gate system reduces the risk of mistakes and complies with local regulations.
The opener receives a signal to activate from the control box and turns a motor that powers the opening mechanism. There are many different types of openers. Swing gate openers power gates that swing open horizontally, while sliding gate openers operate gates that slide along a track. There are also ram gate openers, which look like a vertical piston that extends and retracts to open or close the gate, and linear screw openers, which work with a threaded shaft to screw a bracket mounted on the gate back and forth. All types of openers have sensors that detect motion and send a signal to the opener to activate or deactivate. Some types of openers have a manual override feature that can be used during a power outage or in case of a malfunction.