Gated entrances that haven’t kept up with advancements in technology are like outdated vehicles. Repairs are inevitable when you have a somewhat outdated electronic entrance to your property, and there are a few common issues that tend to pop up. Making the repairs will require specialized tools and knowledge, especially when dealing with electrical components, so it’s often best to hire a professional to take a look at it and ensure everything is working properly.
Sometimes, the best way to put an end to malfunctions and ensure the security of your property is to replace the whole system with a more advanced one, possibly including the gate and motor itself. However, repairs to individual parts can be necessary, too. Four frequent repairs you might have to make to an older gate:
1. Gate Operator Motor Failure
This occurs when the motor that handles the heavy work of ppening and closing the gate fails, due to wear and tear, electrical issues, or overheating. However, you will first want an expert diagnosis to determine what the problem is. Have a professional gate technician check the power supply, fuses, circuit boards, and any batteries. If these are all fine, the motor itself is often the culprit.
When a replacement of the motor is necessary, it may be that the main piece of equipment is burned out or faulty. Sometimes, internal components like gears or bearings wear out. An expert can take a look and let you know whether swapping out the whole motor is necessary or a simple repair will suffice.
Prevention Tip: Regular lubrication of moving parts and cleaning out debris from the motor area can help extend its lifespan.
2. Remote Control and Intercom or Receiver Issues
A malfunctioning remote or intercom might be due to dead batteries, signal interference, or a failure of the receiver unit. Check the batteries in any devices you have first. If the remote is faulty, replacing the batteries might solve the problem. However, if it works intermittently, the issue might be with signal interference, or the transmitters, or the receiver on the gate may need an upgrade.
Depending on what is at fault, a professional may recommend replacing the receiver, resetting the system, repositioning equipment, or replacing some component of it. To avoid future problems, consider installing a more powerful, or a wireless system for more consistent results.
Prevention Tip: Regularly replace the remote’s batteries and avoid interference from large metal objects near the receiver.
3. Sensor Malfunctions (Gate Reversing / Safety Sensors)
Sensors that prevent the gate from closing when there’s an obstruction can get misaligned or dirty, leading to the gate either not closing at all or closing and then reopening. If it’s a dirty sensor, it can usually be cleaned with a soft cloth and a water beading cleaner (think rain-x) to resolve the problem.
If that doesn’t work, check to see whether the sensors are aligned correctly, as they may have been hit or moved unintentionally. This typically involves making sure that the infrared beam between the two sensors is uninterrupted. If they are misaligned, they may simply need to be repositioned. Without a properly functioning sensor you are running the risk of gates not opening and/or closing properly. Be sure to replace malfunctioning sensors as soon as possible if necessary.
Prevention Tip: Keep the sensors free from dirt, spider webs, and any plants, bushes, or debris that may obstruct them.
4. Replacing Parts with More Durable, Weather Resistant Equipment and Designs
Sometimes the point of a repair is to replace outdated parts with much-needed upgrades. Today’s electronic gate equipment designs make better use of aluminum alloys and galvanized steel to ward off corrosion and the usual wear and tear. To protect against harsh weather conditions, improved designs and weatherproofing of gates – in addition to motors, call boxes, sensors and outdoor cameras – enable today’s entrance systems to operate smoothly for a longer period of time.
Prevention Tip: Extend the lifespan of your residential or commercial gate by having a high-end electronic entry provider install the most powerful, durable and energy-efficient solution for your property.
Contact Electronic Entry Systems (EES) for Automated Gate Repairs
Do you need an electric gate specialist to resolve your gate issues? Reach out to EES any time and we will help you figure out the best way to resolve the problem. We can also address any aesthetic issues so your entrance is beautiful as well as up to date.
Visit Electronic Entry Systems online, or contact us for a free consultation.