Investing in electric driveway gates is an excellent way to enhance the security, convenience, and curb appeal of your home or business.
However, to ensure they function smoothly, look their best, and remain in top condition for years, regular maintenance is essential. Without proper upkeep, even the highest-quality electric gates may develop faults and performance issues, reducing their efficiency and lifespan.
Fortunately, with the right care and timely inspections, you can keep your electric driveway gates running efficiently for years to come.
At Windlesham Gates, our experienced electric gate installers in Surrey do not only specialise in bespoke commercial and residential gates, but also offer professional servicing and maintenance.
This guide will outline essential maintenance tasks to help you keep your gates operating flawlessly, plus provide tips on when it’s best to call in professionals for servicing or repairs.
Key Maintenance Tasks for Electric Driveway Gates
Regular maintenance ensures that your electric driveway gates remain reliable, safe, and aesthetically pleasing. Below are some of the most crucial tasks that every electric gate owner should include in their maintenance routine:
1. Cleaning and Lubrication
Keeping your electric gates clean and well-lubricated is fundamental to maintaining their functionality and preventing wear and tear.
- Cleaning: Regularly clean the gate’s surfaces to remove dust, dirt, and debris that can accumulate over time. Use a mild detergent with water to gently wash the gates, and avoid abrasive cleaning agents with harsh chemicals that could damage their finish. Cleaning is especially important for gates positioned near busy roads or in urban areas like London, as exhaust fumes, pollution, and dirt can quickly build up.
- Lubrication: To keep the gate operating smoothly, apply a suitable lubricant to exposed moving parts like hinges, rollers, and joints. This prevents friction, which can lead to wear and tear. Be sure to check your gate’s user manual or consult your electric gate installers in Surrey for recommendations on the best lubricants to use – improper, poor-quality products could cause damage over time. Additionally, make sure to avoid over-lubrication, as excessive grease can attract dust and debris, leading to blockages.
By maintaining a consistent cleaning and lubrication schedule, you can extend the lifespan of your gate and prevent avoidable malfunctions.
2. Inspecting Hinges, Tracks, and Electrical Components
A well-functioning gate depends on well-maintained components. Regularly checking the hinges, tracks, motor, and other electrical aspects is crucial for ensuring that your gate opens and closes without difficulty.
- Hinges: For swing gates, inspect the hinges for any signs of wear, rust, looseness, or damage. These issues can affect alignment, putting strain on the motor and potentially leading to breakdowns. Wobbly hinges should be tightened, while applying lubricant can prevent further wear. In extreme instances of corrosion or damage, the gate hinges may need complete replacement.
- Tracks: For sliding gates, clear any dirt, leaves, or stones from the track, as obstructions can cause the gate to get stuck or damage the wheels. Look for signs of wear, rust, or damage that might impede gate movement or cause motor strain.
- Motor and Electrical Components: Check for signs of corrosion or dirt on motor casings/electrical components, and listen for unusual noises when the gate operates, which may indicate mechanical issues.
Regularly inspecting these parts helps maintain the gate’s alignment and prevents operational issues. If you spot any significant damage, contact professional electric gate installers in Surrey for a thorough inspection.
3. Seasonal Adjustments
Electric driveway gates in the UK are exposed to changing weather conditions throughout the year, which can affect their performance. Preparing your gate for seasonal changes will help it withstand harsh weather and maintain smooth operation.
- Winter Maintenance: Low temperatures can cause metal parts to contract or freeze, making them brittle and more prone to cracks or breaks. Ensure that all moving parts are properly lubricated to prevent them from seizing up in colder weather. Make sure to keep the area around the gate clear of snow or ice too, as this may obstruct movement.
- Summer Maintenance: During hot, dry weather, regularly inspect the gate for signs of wear, such as fading paint or dry, cracked wood. Weather-resistant coatings or treatments can protect against damage. High temperatures may also impact electronic components, so regularly check for overheating or unusual operation patterns.
- Handling Rain and Moisture: In wet weather, moisture ingress could lead to electrical faults, so make sure that the gate’s motor housing is well-sealed and check that water doesn’t pool around it or any underground components. Keep an eye on drainage around the gate to prevent flooding, which can damage the motor and electronic parts.
When to Call a Professional: Signs That Require Expert Servicing or Repair
Automatic gates are classified as heavy machinery, meaning they can be dangerous, particularly when malfunctioning.
While regular DIY maintenance can keep your gates in excellent condition, there may be times when you need to call in experts for help.
If in doubt as to the severity of your issue, it is always best to contact qualified electric gate installers in Surrey. Engineers like those at Windlesham Gates have the experience and skills to assess and repair even the most complex of issues, ensuring your gate continues to operate safely and reliably.
In particular, enlist professional help if you notice any of the following:
1. Strange Noises
Grinding, scraping, screeching, rattling, or any other unusual noises during your gate’s operation can indicate worn gears, debris buildup, lack of lubrication, motor strain, or other mechanical issues.
A professional inspection can identify and address the problem before it develops into something more complicated and costly.
2. Sluggish Operation
If your electric driveway gates open or close more slowly than usual, it could be a sign of motor wear, misalignment, or issues with the electrical supply.
Such issues can often be corrected quickly with professional servicing by a qualified gate technician.
3. Misalignment or Jerky Movement
Gates that appear significantly misaligned, that don’t close perfectly flush, that sag, or that move in a clunky/stilted manner will not be able to maintain the high level of security that property owners need.
These attributes could indicate hinge problems, track damage, uneven ground settling, or a motor issue.
It may be tempting to attempt to rectify minor problems yourself, but improper fixes can lead to recurring breakdowns. Instead, professional realignment ensures smooth operation and maximises gate security.
4. Intermittent or Non-Responsive Controls
If your gate fails to respond to remote commands or unexpectedly stops mid-operation, it could be due to a wiring issue, faulty receiver, sensor malfunction, or motor problem.
This requires prompt attention from an expert who can pinpoint the problem and restore full functionality.
5. Frequent System Errors or Power Issues
Frequent gate malfunctions, unexpected shutdowns, or electrical fluctuations could indicate a deeper issue within the motor, essential safety sensors, or power supply.
Professional electric gate installers in Surrey can diagnose and resolve these faults effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How often should I service my electric driveway gates?
A: It’s recommended to conduct routine maintenance every 6-12 months. However, high-usage gates or those exposed to extreme weather may require more frequent checks.
Q: Can I perform electric gate maintenance myself, or should I always call a professional?
A: If you follow expert advice, you can usually carry out basic tasks like cleaning, lubrication, and visual inspections yourself. However, for electrical repairs, motor servicing, or complex mechanical issues, it’s best to hire qualified electric gate installers in Surrey for safety.
Q: Why is my electric gate moving slower than usual?
A: Slow movement could be due to obstructions in the track, insufficient lubrication, or a motor issue. If cleaning and lubricating do not resolve the problem, your next step should be a professional inspection.
Q: What should I do if my electric gate stops working suddenly?
A: Check the power supply, any remote control batteries, and ensure there are no physical obstructions. If the issue persists, contact an expert for troubleshooting and repairs.
Let Our Electric Gate Installers in Surrey Keep Your Gates in Optimal Condition
Proper maintenance is crucial for ensuring the longevity and reliable performance of your residential or commercial electric gates. By carrying out simple but essential maintenance tasks – from regular cleaning and lubrication to seasonal adjustments – you can prevent costly repairs and enjoy seamless gate operation.
However, if you notice unusual noises, slow operation, or alignment problems, it’s best to call in expert help.
At Windlesham Gates, we offer professional installation, servicing, and repairs for electric driveway gates across Surrey, Hampshire, and the South East of England.
If you require professional maintenance or assistance, contact our skilled electric gate installers in Surrey today. We are committed to delivering unrivalled service and keeping your gates in exceptional condition for years to come.
Get in touch with us today for more information on our bespoke gate solutions and maintenance services.
