Automatic gates are incredibly convenient because they allow for quick access and mean that drivers don’t have to get out of their cars in order to access the driveway. Instead, drivers can open the gate with a simple touch of a button or a swipe of a card.
However, like most technology, sliding gates are not immune to problems. There are several different ways in which automatic gates can cause headaches for homeowners. These problems should be dealt with immediately, otherwise, the gate could become damaged beyond repair and have to be replaced.
Here are the 6 most common problems with automatic gates and how they can be fixed without much of a fuss. Read on to find out more.
LARGE AMOUNTS OF NOISE: Sometimes, a fence in Perth which is automatic can generate a large amount of noise for reasons that don’t always seem immediately clear. A grinding sound could mean the mechanism which moves the gates together and apart may have become worn out. This problem can be fixed one of two ways: either have the mechanism taken apart and reassembled or have a new part fitted.
Click here for gates that operate perfectly without any noise.
VERMIN AND INSECTS: Automatic gates work by using sensors that trigger motion. However, if the sensors are blocked the automatic gate will fail to open. Insects and vermin can climb into the dark spaces provided by a gate and cause an obstruction. Make sure that the inside of the automatic gate is kept clear of dirt and small animals so that the sensor will work perfectly at all times. Moss and mold can cause a similar obstruction, so they must be cleared away as soon as possible.
POWER OUTAGE: Automatic gates need to have a constant supply of electricity in order to work correctly. Power failures and cutouts will prevent the gates from working. If a power outage occurs, make sure to check for blown fuses. The power can be restored by putting the blown fuse switch back in position.
FAULTY REMOTE CONTROL: The remote control needs to be kept in good working order to ensure that it will be able to open the electric gate without any problems. However, the batteries can start to fade so check if the red light is failing to ‘blink’. Replace the batteries and try again if this is the case. Replace the remote if the problem persists.
OBSTRUCTIONS IN THE GATE TRACKS: The gate tracks need to be kept clear in order to help the gate open and close smoothly. Debris in the gate track can cause the gate to become stuck and fail to open or close properly. Sweep up any debris on a regular basis.
MANUAL MODE: Sometimes a gate can become stuck in the manual mode. This could be a problem with the gate’s opening mechanism or the batteries in the remote.
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