Have electric gates? Keep them working throughout winter by following our top tips.
Electric gates add security, convenience, and luxury to your property, but only if they’re in full working condition. If they’re not, then they’ll give you more trouble than you’d like them to. While automatic gates can have issues at all times of the year, it’s more likely to happen during the winter months, when the ice, snow, and all-around chilly temperatures can interfere with the gate’s mechanisms and cause them to have problems.
As such, it’s important to take proactive steps to ensure that your electric gates can do their job throughout the winter months. This blog will look at some of the most effective methods for doing just that.
Invest in Gate Maintenance
Your electric gates will last a long time, but only if you’re investing in regular servicing. As with all electronic infrastructure, your gates will need a little TLC from time to time! At a minimum, it’s best to schedule a maintenance service at least once a year, ideally before the winter months arrive. Your gates will be better equipped to deal with the chilly conditions if they’re working as they should be, as opposed to having issues.
If you’re looking for electric gate maintenance, get in touch with us here at Security and Gates. We offer a comprehensive service that’ll ensure your gates work exactly as they’re supposed to.
Keep Using Your Gates
We can see why people think that they’re protecting their gates by not using them. But this isn’t the case — in fact, keeping your gates permanently open during the winter months is more likely to result in damage. So don’t be afraid to open and close the gates. In the process, you’ll be keeping the motor and inner gears working. Additionally, if you’re not using your gates, then you could fail to spot any issues that could become big problems by the time Spring rolls around.
Clearing Ice and Snow
It can be enjoyable to wake up to fresh snow (especially if you have nowhere to go), but it’s important to think about how snow — and ice — could impact your electric gates. As a general rule of thumb, you should assume that ice and snow, equal bad news, and while it won’t cause any instant damage to your gates, removing them as soon as possible is best. The same principle applies to any fallen leaves that may impact the gate’s ability to open and close.
As well as the ice and snow that’s directly on the gates, think about the ice and snow that’s in front/behind your gates. A build-up could make it difficult for your gate to open/close, putting undue pressure on the gate that could cause damage.
Inspect the Motor
Most people pay attention to the gate itself since that’s the most obvious area to check. But in many cases, it’s what’s happening underneath the gate that has the biggest impact. Your gate’s motor must be free of water at all points in the year, but it’s especially important during the winter months, when that water may become ice. From time to time, check that the drainage part of your gate is working effectively and that no water is reaching your motor area. This is especially important after heavy rainfall or when there’s been a large build-up of snow.
Keep the Moving Parts Running Smoothly
Your electric gates depend on fluid movement in order to work correctly. The moving parts can experience problems if they’re not well-lubricated. It’s recommended to regularly lubricate the bearings, gears, and hinges through the electric gate, which will help to minimise any potential friction. You don’t need to go overboard with lubricant, but your gate will find it easier to work as it’s supposed to if it’s given a top-up before the cold bite arrives.
Keep the Photocells Clear
Your gate’s photocells need to be in full working condition for your gate to close correctly. During the winter months, they can become blocked by snow and frost. If your automatic gates are failing to close, then get a cloth and wipe the photocells — it might be enough to spring them back into action. Be sure to use a warm (not hot), moist (but not wet) cloth.
Contact an Expert If You Have Any Issues
Things can go wrong with your electric gates at any point in the year. But due to the season’s harsh weather, it’s more likely during the winter months. It’s recommended to keep an eye on the functionality of your gates and handle any issues as soon as possible. Most gate issues can be fixed relatively quickly if they’re caught early, but the longer they’re present, the more complex the repair job will be.
It’s not recommended to fix your gates yourself. The mechanism may look simple enough, but there’s a lot more going on behind the scenes than you might think! As such, be sure to get in touch with a qualified technician to handle the job for you.
Security and Gates: Here For You
At Security and Gates, we understand that you need your electric gates to work each and every time. If you have an issue with your gate, get in touch with one of our helpful members of staff to schedule a maintenance or repair service. We work quickly, efficiently, and reliably, ensuring that your gate issues don’t last any longer than necessary. To book an appointment, give us a call at 01484 255 455 or click the ‘Request Free Quote’ button at the top of this page.