You invested a considerable amount of money on that automatic gate for the convenience and safety it brings. But like any other machinery, it’ll need some maintenance from time to time or else it’ll break down.
Imagine driving up to your automatic gate on a rainy evening and it just wouldn’t open to you.
Yes, this is a possibility if you keep ignoring its maintenance.
The good thing is that your gate would likely show you some signs before it gets damaged. If you’re attentive enough and know what to look out for you’ll pick these signs up.
If you don’t know what signs to look out for, read on as we provide you with answers. We’ll also do you one better by showing you when you should get professional automatic Gate Gurus or DIY.
Signs Your Automatic Gate Needs Attention
There will be signs – the problem is will you notice them? Picking up signs your automatic gate needs maintenance will no longer be a problem after going through this section.
1. Gate Makes Strange Noises
One of the most common signs a gate needs maintenance is strange noise. When you hear an unusual noise when the gate is in motion, it is a call to action.
It all depends on the sound. A beeping sound may indicate a battery issue. Grinding sound? Some mechanical parts may have worn out. Otherwise, lubrication and cleaning of the motor is all that is required.
2. Won’t Open or Close
When your gate is unresponsive, it may be as a result of several issues: a power issue, a problem with the opener or just debris blocking its pathway.
It can also be a battery problem. Replace the batteries and ensure the pred power light at the top of the remote flickers when you press the remote. However, sometimes it may be as a result of faulty wiring or damaged control board.
3. Your Gate is Stiff or Slow
Most times the gate slows down over time so picking it up may be challenging at first. However, if you notice your automatic gate has become stiff or is slower than usual, there may be dirt blocking its pathway or it needs lubrication.
Otherwise, it needs to be examined by a professional.
4. Rust, Corrosion, or Visible Wear
Rain, heat from the sun and friction can all contribute to deteriorating the physical condition of the gate. When you can visibly see this wear and rust, it is time for some maintenance.
Physical deterioration makes it difficult for an automatic gate to function plus weakens its structure thereby risking your safety.
5. Damaged Hardware
Sometimes hardware like rollers, tracks, and hinges get damaged and obstruct the free movement of the gate.
You need to call in a professional to fix these issues immediately as leaving them for longer may affect the gate’s integrity. Metal gates typically have a rust problem, while wooden gates require frequent vanishing to protect the material.
6. Gate Opens and Closes on Its Own
Although this is a common automatic gate problem, it shouldn’t be taken lightly as it can risk your safety or even injure someone.
When the gate keeps opening and closing on its own, it may be as a result of a motherboard failure or a short-circuit of the wires. Either way, it requires urgent attention.
When to Call a Professional Vs DIY Maintenance
Now you know the signs, your gates will no longer break down on you, right? Well, only if you fix the issues immediately you notice any sign.
To address the next pressing issue, should you do a DIY or let a professional handle the maintenance?
If you have the time and some DIY experience, you may be able to handle simple automatic gate maintenance like cleaning, removing debris from the pathway, lubricating the tracks, applying vanishes, and painting.
Some more complicated fixes require the touch of professional gate gurus. Usually these fixes require some diagnosis to figure out the real issue.
So if you notice issues like the gate not responding, opening and closing on its own, visible wear, or unusual noises not attributed to a blocked pathway, contact an automatic gate expert immediately.
Conclusion
Your automatic gate should keep you safe and make life easier for you so ensure it is in its best condition at all times.
Pay attention to the game so you can pick up signs showing it needs maintenance. These signs can vary from unresponsiveness to strange noises.
By staying vigilant and tackling any issues immediately they arise, you’re ensuring your automatic gate continues to serve you.
