The Importance of Regular Servicing for Electric Gates: Avoiding Breakdowns and Extending Life

Electric gates are a convenient and secure solution for homes, businesses, and industrial properties. They provide enhanced security, privacy, and curb appeal while making access easier for authorized individuals. However, like any mechanical system, electric gates require regular maintenance to ensure they operate smoothly and reliably. Neglecting routine servicing can lead to unexpected breakdowns, costly repairs, and even safety hazards. In this blog, we’ll explore why regular servicing is essential for electric gates, how it helps avoid common issues, and what to expect from a professional maintenance schedule.

1. Preventing Unexpected Breakdowns

One of the main reasons to schedule regular maintenance for electric gates is to prevent unexpected breakdowns. Electric gates are made up of complex components such as motors, sensors, hinges, and control panels, all of which need to function together seamlessly. Over time, wear and tear on these parts can lead to malfunction or failure if not properly maintained.

• Motor Issues: The motor is the heart of your electric gate, and it can fail if not serviced regularly. Problems such as overheating, electrical faults, or worn-out components can cause the motor to stop working. Regular inspections and servicing can catch these issues early, allowing for repairs before the motor fails completely.
• Track and Roller Wear: For sliding gates, the track and rollers are essential for smooth operation. Dirt, debris, and rust can build up in the track, causing the gate to become misaligned or jam. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the track and rollers prevent this from happening, ensuring your gate opens and closes properly.
• Sensor and Control Panel Checks: Automatic gates rely on sensors to detect obstacles and ensure safe operation. These sensors can become dirty or misaligned, leading to malfunction. Regular servicing includes checking the sensors and control panels to ensure they’re working correctly, reducing the risk of gate accidents.

2. Extending the Life of Your Electric Gate

Electric gates are a significant investment, and regular maintenance helps protect that investment by extending the lifespan of the gate. Just like any other piece of machinery, proper care and upkeep can add years to its functional life, reducing the need for early replacement.

• Reducing Wear and Tear: By regularly lubricating moving parts such as hinges, rollers, and chains, you reduce the friction that causes wear and tear. This helps preserve the structural integrity of the gate and its components, allowing the gate to function smoothly for longer periods.
• Preventing Rust and Corrosion: Metal gates, particularly those made of steel or iron, are susceptible to rust and corrosion if not properly maintained. Regular cleaning, painting, or applying protective coatings can prevent rust from spreading and compromising the gate’s structure. Rusty gates not only look unsightly but can also become unsafe over time if the metal weakens.
• Maintaining Electrical Components: Electric gates depend on various electrical components, including the control board, sensors, and wiring. Regular maintenance ensures these components are in good working order, preventing electrical failures that can shut down the entire system.

3. Enhancing Safety for Users

Safety is a top priority when it comes to electric gates, especially for properties that are frequently accessed by vehicles or pedestrians. Regular maintenance helps ensure that your gate is operating safely and reduces the risk of accidents.

• Obstacle Detection: Modern electric gates are equipped with safety features such as obstacle detection sensors and automatic reverse mechanisms. If these safety features are not regularly checked and maintained, they may fail to function properly, putting people and vehicles at risk of injury. Regular servicing ensures that all safety features are in working order and meet current safety standards.
• Gate Alignment: Misaligned gates can become dangerous, especially if they close unevenly or suddenly stop mid-operation. This can lead to damage to the gate itself, nearby vehicles, or people passing through. Regular checks help identify and correct alignment issues before they cause accidents.
• Compliance with Regulations: Electric gates, particularly for commercial or industrial properties, must comply with certain safety regulations. Regular maintenance ensures that your gate continues to meet these legal requirements, reducing the risk of penalties or liabilities.

4. Improving Energy Efficiency

Regular maintenance of electric gates can also improve their energy efficiency, helping to reduce operational costs over time. Gates that are not serviced regularly may require more power to operate, especially if components are worn or misaligned.

• Motor Efficiency: A well-maintained motor operates more efficiently, using less energy to open and close the gate. Motors that are overworked due to friction, rust, or electrical issues can consume more energy, leading to higher electricity bills. Regular servicing keeps the motor running smoothly and efficiently.
• Battery Health: Many electric gates rely on battery backups to function during power outages. Regular maintenance ensures that the batteries are in good condition and fully charged, ready to power the gate when needed. Faulty or drained batteries can leave the gate inoperable during critical times.

5. What to Expect from a Professional Servicing Plan

To keep your electric gate in top working condition, it’s important to follow a regular servicing plan carried out by a professional. Here’s what you can expect from a comprehensive maintenance service:

• Visual Inspection: A technician will visually inspect the gate, motor, and all components for signs of wear, damage, or misalignment. This includes checking the hinges, rollers, chains, and wiring for any visible issues.
• Lubrication: All moving parts such as hinges, rollers, and chains will be lubricated to reduce friction and wear. Proper lubrication also ensures smoother operation and less strain on the motor.
• Cleaning: Tracks and sensors will be cleaned of dirt, debris, and rust. A clean track ensures the gate moves smoothly without obstruction, while clean sensors ensure accurate obstacle detection.
• Testing of Electrical Components: The motor, control panel, and sensors will be tested to ensure they are functioning correctly. Any issues with wiring, electrical connections, or control systems will be addressed during the service.
• Safety Checks: The technician will perform safety checks to ensure the gate’s safety features, such as obstacle detection and auto-reverse mechanisms, are functioning properly. This ensures the gate remains safe to use for all who access the property.

Conclusion: Keep Your Electric Gates in Prime Condition

Regular servicing of electric gates is not just about preventing breakdowns but also about extending their lifespan, enhancing safety, and improving energy efficiency. For homeowners, businesses, and industrial property owners, regular maintenance is a cost-effective way to protect your investment and ensure your gates operate smoothly year after year.

At BGS, we specialize in the installation, repair, and maintenance of electric gates Bridgend. Our expert technicians provide thorough servicing to keep your electric gates in top condition, ensuring they function reliably and safely. Contact us today to schedule your electric gate maintenance and protect your investment for the long term.