How to repair a driveway gate
Instead of immediately calling a gate automation company, you could try checking a few common issues to repair your automated driveway gate without having to pay for a service call.
RULE OUT NON-ELECTRICAL ISSUES.
First, let’s rule out any non-electrical issues.
all kind of gate operators has a manual release key, and you have to use the key to release the gate operator. If you couldn’t find the key, you have to shut the power off, disconnect the gate arm (if it’s a swing gate), or disconnect the chain or gear rack (if it’s a sliding gate).
Try to move the gate open by hand. If the gate opens easily, then the gate itself is not the culprit.
Swing gates – look for a physical obstruction. If it is not that, check on possible damage to the gate arm or problems with the hinges.
Slide gates – look for issues with the wheel bearings, track, or chain.
Common issues for non-electrical problems are:
1- Lubricating the swing gate hinges.
2- Replacing the wheels on the slide gates.
If the problem is a physical issue that you don’t feel comfortable tackling yourself, take some pictures and send us. Pictures and a good description could eliminate multiple service trips to repair your gate.
CHECKLIST FOR ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS
1. Check the board for any indicator lights. If none, reset the power on the gate operator. Disconnect, unplug, or switch off your breaker, transformer, backup power, or battery (it depends on the type of system you have). The bottom line, disconnect all power to do a full reset of the equipment. This is how I “fix” most of my computer issues! Honestly, the fix is often this simple and there is no need to spend your money on a repair call.
2. Even if you have solar panels, power could still be the problem.
Solar Panel
Check the battery connected to your solar panels with a voltmeter (which can be purchased at many stores like Wal-Mart, Home Depot, etc.). The voltage reading should be at or above the voltage required. This will be on the manufacturer’s sticker in the operator. It is usually 12V or more.
If your battery is over 2 years old, it is highly likely it needs to be replaced.
Has there been a recent storm in your area? Storms can cause a power surge and destroy your board and/or wiring system. Look and smell for anything that appears burned.
3. If you have checked the electric power (after checking), and the gate just won’t open/close, check the following:
Check the photo eyes (if your system has them). Do you see light on inside the device? That will indicate if it is getting power. If so, are they clean? Do you see any obstructions like leaves, plants, etc.? This is a very common yet fixable issue we are called to repair your gate.
Make sure that a “hold open” command has not been entered into the keypad.
If the problem is the exit probe, the remote and keypad may still open the gate. Or, the system will just hold itself open. The exit probe is underground and must be dug up and replaced. Unless you want to get dirty, give us a call to replace this.
These are the basics, and many issues depend on who or how the system was installed. Sometimes we just need to set up a repair call to come look at the problem. But, you can call and schedule a time to talk to one of our technicians. They can often walk you through the issue over the phone. We do not charge for phone consultations.
