Why and how often do I need to service my automatic gate?
Now you’ve had your automatic gate installed, you might be wondering why you need to get it serviced and how often, to keep it working at its best, and to ensure it continues providing the security and convenience you expect.
If you’ve used a reputable gate provider, manufacturer and installer, they would’ve offered you the advice you need and some sort of aftersales service package, but if not, this short article should help to answer these common questions.
Why does my automatic gate need servicing?
Apart from making sure all the components of your automatic gate, whether it’s a cantilever, swing or sliding gate are working as they should be, you may also have a legal responsibility to get it serviced.
The reason for this comes down to the Workplace Health Safety Regulation 1992 regarding powered gate ownership, where owners of commercial properties that have powered gates are dutybound to ensure they’re safe to use. Of course, if you’re the owner of a domestic automatic gate, you’re not bound by the same rules as commercial property owners, but in the same piece of legislation, the Health & Safety Executive states – "While health and safety law does not apply to owners of powered gates on domestic (privately owned) premises, it is strongly recommended that they are checked regularly."
How often do I need to service my automatic gate?
Servicing regularity of your electric gate depends on a couple of factors, including how often the gate’s used (a commercial gate may be used more often) and how vital its reliability is to the business or the individual using it.
But in general bi-annually (twice a year) should be sufficient for most domestic electric gates, whereas a commercial electric gate should be serviced up to four times a year, to ensure safety, and to help reduce the risk of downtime.
What’s included in an automatic gate service?
Before giving you a list of what an automatic gate inspection covers, it’s important to know that the inspection must be carried out by a trained professional, especially when the electric gate is the gate to a commercial premises.
A typical automatic gate service carried out by a professional gate engineer will include:
A thorough check of all safety devices, including safety sensors etc.
Checking the structural integrity of the gate, including its posts, panels and hinges etc.
Lubricating the moving parts to ensure smooth operation and wear reduction.
Inspecting the wiring of the control cabinet and repairing if necessary
Testing the force of the moving gate to ensure it’s not restricted
Induction loop testing
Checking access control units, including remote control and IoT devices
Checking power usage levels
Is an automatic gate service expensive?
The answer to this question is relative to what you can afford, but, by using a reputable gate provider and signing up to a good aftersales package, you will save money, whilst also having the reassurance that a qualified gate engineer will be available in the event of an emergency.
Contact us
Looking for a professional gate installation and maintenance specialist? Then contact Gate Control, one of Bedfordshire’s leading suppliers, manufacturers and installers of all types of domestic gate and commercial gates.