Electric Gates – Convenience and Security Integrated Into One

A manually opening gate can become a huge workout every day for people returning after a tough and tiring day at the office. Electric gates can become a real boon in this situation, as with just a press of a button, they will glide effortlessly into your driveway and provide conveniences like never before. Ease of use is one benefit, followed by so many like enhanced security, added value to the property and not to mention, a touch of elegance as well.

All these features can be accessed only when you choose the right electric gates, and believe it or not, due to the vast variety available, this can be a real daunting task. We have developed a comprehensive guide to discuss electric gates and the essential factors to consider when purchasing them. This post will help you make informed decisions to buy the right gate and save money at the same time.

TYPES OF ELECTRIC GATES INSTALLATIONS

The path to purchasing the right electric gates begins with understanding the variety available on the market. In most cases, these electric gates are available in two forms: electric sliding gates and electric swing gates. They both have their unique advantages and considerations, which we have briefly reviewed below.

WHAT ARE SWING ELECTRIC GATES?

Swing electric gates are ideal for spacious properties, and, like traditional doors and gates, they open in both inward and outward directions. They are best suited for properties that have a lot of space to cover the opening and closing swing. They are renowned for their aesthetic appeal, ease of installation, and visually appealing design. The only factor to consider here is that these swing electric gates installations require more space to operate.

WHAT ARE SLIDING ELECTRIC GATES?

If you have a property with limited space, you can rely on sliding electric gates that slide horizontally along a track. They are perfect for driveways that slope upward or are constrained. These doors are renowned for their strength and durability, providing excellent security without occupying any available space.

SELECTING THE RIGHT MATERIAL

According to experts in electric gate services, these gates are available in various materials, each with its level of durability, maintenance requirements, and visual appeal. The most common materials used in their production are wrought iron, steel, aluminium and wood. Wrought iron and steel gates are synonymous with durability and the highest grade security. They are impact-resistant and easily withstand harsh weather conditions. The only concern is that they require regular maintenance to prevent rusting and corrosion.

On the other hand, aluminium electric gates installations are lighter and fully rust-resistant. This material requires no major maintenance, and the customisation options are unlimited, allowing you to make your property's entrance board attractive, aesthetically pleasing, and versatile. Lastly, there are wooden electric gates known for their natural and traditional looks. The drawbacks associated with them include higher maintenance and a shorter lifespan due to constant exposure to various weather conditions.

CONSIDER AUTOMATION FEATURES

Modern electric gates feature numerous automation options to enhance their functionality and provide added convenience. The most common features available in these electric gates installations are –

REMOTE CONTROL

• Allows you to open and close the gate from a distance.

KEYPAD ENTRY

• Provides secure access with a code

INTERCOM SYSTEM

• Enables communication with visitors at the gate

AUTOMATIC TIMERS

• Allows you to set specific times for the gate to open and close.

SAFETY SENSORS

• Prevent the gate from closing if an obstacle is detected.

All these features available in electric gates make them more convenient to use and capable of providing more security and peace of mind.

SECURITY-RELATED CONCERNS

The main reason people get electric gate installations done is the convenience they provide, followed by the as security gates they offer. You must focus on the safety features of your electric gates, and while doing this, ensure that it has a robust locking mechanism, such as a magnetic lock or an automatic deadbolt. These electric gates installations must integrate with your property's existing security system for enhanced security and protection. Features like surveillance cameras, motion detectors, and alarm systems should also be in place to further strengthen security and prevent unauthorised access to your property.

BUDGET AND INSTALLATION

Your budget is a critical factor to consider while choosing electric gates installations. The cost must be accompanied by the cost of ongoing maintenance, allowing you to consider the overall expenditure of these electric gate installations. It is obvious for anyone to be tempted by the cheapest option available, but it will be of no use, as there will be limitations in every segment, such as safety, looks, features, accessibility, and durability. Fence company suggested the best electric gates for investing in high-quality electric gates means you can save in the long run by reducing maintenance and repair costs. Timely maintenance will also be instrumental, along with timely troubleshooting of some common issues arising in these electric gates.

WHAT ARE THE COMMON ISSUES ARISING IN ELECTRIC GATES?

A malfunctioning electric gate can be a huge frustration, but these installations encounter problems very rarely. However, it is essential to be aware of some common troubleshooting tips to save your time and stress. You can get these tips from the vendor or the team coming for the electric gates installations. Some common issues with electric gates are reviewed below, along with easy troubleshooting tips.

POWER FAILURE

The most common issue faced by electric gates is power failure, and in this situation, the first thing to do is to check the power supply. You must ensure that the gate is plugged and there are no issues with the circuit breaker. Some common steps you can take to tackle this power failure issue are –

• Verify that the gate's power switch is turned on.

• Check the circuit breaker for any tripped switches.

• Inspect the power cable for any visible damage.

• If you have a battery backup system, ensure the batteries are charged and functioning.

ISSUES WITH THE REMOTE CONTROL

The remote control provided with these electric gate installations can be a source of frequent headaches. In most cases, the issue is with the remote or the receiver, and you can take the following steps to troubleshoot this problem.

• Check remote batteries and replace them if necessary.

• Ensure you are within the effective range of the remote control.

• Inspect the remote for any visible damage.

• Try reprogramming the remote to the gate's receiver.

OBSTRUCTION SENSORS

Electric gates feature robust obstruction sensors that detect any obstructions and prevent accidents. If any obstruction is present, the electric gate will stop functioning; however, this sensor can malfunction occasionally. The most common troubleshooting tips for this sensor are provided below.

• Inspect the sensor lenses for dirt or debris and clean them if needed.

• Ensure that the sensors are correctly aligned.

• Check for any physical obstructions blocking the gate's path.

• Test the sensors by placing an object in their path to see if they respond correctly.

• Persistent sensor issues may require professional calibration or replacement.