Electric gates offer a seamless blend of convenience, security, and modern automation for both residential and commercial properties. However, as with any sophisticated system, they can develop faults over time, especially without proactive care. Understanding how to prevent electric gate problems is critical for extending the life of your investment and maintaining reliable day-to-day operation.
At Fraser Gates, our years of servicing electric gates across Surry and surrounding counties have shown us that most breakdowns are preventable with the right approach. Here are the seven most effective strategies we recommend to our clients.
Why Electric Gate Problems Happen
Electric gates are complex systems made up of various interdependent components, including motors, control panels, safety sensors, hinges or tracks, and access control devices. While these systems are designed to be durable and weather-resistant, they are still exposed to daily use, environmental conditions, and occasional misuse.
Environmental Exposure
Water, wind, dirt, and fluctuating temperatures can deteriorate even high-quality components. Without adequate protection, electronics and mechanical parts are at risk of failure.
Mechanical Wear and Tear
Frequent opening and closing, especially in high-traffic environments, puts stress on motors, hinges, and joints. Over time, this wear can affect alignment, speed, and functionality.
Electrical and Access System Failures
Problems in remotes, keypads, intercoms, or control boxes often lead to intermittent access or total system failure. These issues can be triggered by power surges, dead batteries, or outdated firmware.
Lack of Scheduled Maintenance
Without periodic inspections, small electric gate problems can often go unnoticed, and turn into much bigger issues causing significant damage. Regular servicing is vital for catching problems early and maintaining compliance with UK safety regulations.
According to Integrity Automatic Gates, issues such as jammed tracks and failing sensors are among the most frequent service callouts. Checkatrade estimates the average electric gate repair can cost anywhere from £75 to over £500 depending on the fault, making prevention both financially and operationally worthwhile.
Faults also carry legal and safety implications. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in the UK notes that powered gates must meet strict safety standards. Non-compliant or poorly maintained systems can pose risks to people and property.
Tip 1: Protect Gate Motors from Water Ingress
Water ingress is one of the most damaging yet preventable electric gate problems. The motor and control box, often housed near the base of the gate, are vulnerable to moisture, especially during periods of heavy rain, snow, or ground flooding.
Why Water Is a Problem
Water can corrode internal components, short out circuits, and trigger ongoing electrical faults. Symptoms of water-damaged systems include intermittent opening and closing, a complete failure to operate, or repeatedly tripped fuses. These issues can result in security vulnerabilities and inconvenient downtime.
Ensuring Proper Protection
To avoid water damage, control boxes must be properly sealed and elevated above ground level. In areas with poor drainage, installing a French drain or protective barrier can divert water away from the gate’s motor. Regularly inspect enclosures for cracks, worn seals, or signs of condensation.
At Fraser Gates we recommend checking these areas during seasonal transitions and including them in your annual servicing schedule. In high-risk zones, waterproof motor covers and raised plinths are excellent preventative upgrades.
Tip 2: Keep Tracks and Hinges Clear of Debris
Tracks, hinges, and moving joints are essential to the smooth operation of any gate. When debris accumulates, whether it’s leaves, stones, grit, or ice, it can obstruct movement, wear down mechanical parts, and lead to unnecessary strain on motors. Debris-related electric gate problems are among the most common issues we encounter at Fraser Gates
How Debris Causes Damage
Blocked tracks often result in jerky or hesitant movement, audible grinding noises, or complete jamming. Forcing a gate through an obstruction can burn out motors or bend structural components. The risk is especially high in autumn and winter, when wet leaves and snow increase friction and weight.
Best Practices for Debris Management
Visual checks should be carried out at least once a week, with more frequent attention after storms or seasonal transitions. Use a soft brush or broom to sweep away debris and rinse tracks lightly with a hose if needed. Avoid high-pressure washers, which can damage components or force water into sensitive areas.
Lubricate hinges and joints with a gate-appropriate lubricant every few months. Avoid oil-based products that attract dust and cause grime build-up.
Professional servicing from Fraser Gates includes a full inspection and cleaning of mechanical parts, ensuring long-term reliability.
Tip 3: Avoid Overloading the Gate System
Overloading a gate system occurs when the weight of the gate exceeds the capacity of the motor and support mechanisms. This often happens after retrofits or aesthetic upgrades, such as attaching heavy cladding or fencing panels. Motor overloads are a serious electric gate problem that can lead to complete system failure.
Warning Signs of Strain
Overloaded gates tend to move slowly or with uneven motion. You may hear grinding or groaning during operation. In some cases, motors shut down mid-cycle due to overheating or resistance.
How to Prevent Overloading
Before modifying a gate’s structure, consult your original installer to determine whether the motor is capable of supporting additional weight. If your gate was not installed by Fraser Gates, their team can conduct a load capacity assessment.
During routine inspections, professionals can check for imbalance, wear on moving parts, and signs of torque strain. If you replace an undersized motor with a properly rated unit you can prevent long-term damage.
Tip 4: Address Access System Glitches Promptly
Access control systems, whether fobs, keypads, remotes, or intercoms, are often the most user-facing part of an electric gate. Faults in these systems can manifest as inconsistent access, failure to respond, or loss of connectivity. Left unresolved, these glitches can lead to lockouts or full system shutdowns.
Recognising Common Glitches
Remote devices may stop responding due to low batteries, interference, or outdated signals. Keypads often wear down over time, with buttons becoming unresponsive. Network-based systems may experience Wi-Fi issues, software bugs, or sensor misalignment. These electric gate problems relating to access controls often escalate if not addressed properly.
Keeping Access Systems Functional
Routine battery replacement is essential for remotes and fobs. Keep a log of unusual behaviours or faults so you can report them to your maintenance provider. Wi-Fi or network-based systems should be updated regularly to maintain compatibility and responsiveness.
Fraser Gates offers access system upgrades for clients using outdated or faulty technology, but prompt attention to these issues can prevent larger failures and improve experience.
Tip 5: Schedule an Annual Safety Inspection
In the UK, as a powered gate owner, you have a legal responsibility to maintain safe gate systems. Annual safety inspections are essential for both compliance and peace of mind.
Legal and Safety Standards
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) requires that gates be regularly maintained, especially if they are accessible by employees or the public. Safety features such as photocells, pressure sensors, and emergency stop functions must be tested and documented.
What a Professional Inspection Includes
Fraser Gates’ annual inspections cover every safety-critical aspect of your gate, including diagnostics on control boards, the verification of motor functions, and calibration of access systems, to identify common electric gate problems. Each service includes a compliance report that helps protect you in the event of a legal claim or incident.
For higher-use or multi-user gates, bi-annual inspections may be appropriate. Fraser Gates can recommend a servicing schedule based on your usage and site-specific risk factors.
Tip 6: Monitor Gate Alignment and Balance
Why Alignment Matters
Over time, ground movement, frequent use, and accidental impact (e.g., a vehicle bump) can cause electric gates to fall out of alignment. When a gate is misaligned, it may drag, lean, or catch on the track, placing strain on the motor and hinges.Misalignment is a progressive electrical gate problem that worsens over time.
Signs of Misalignment
Misaligned gates often open or close unevenly, produce squeaking or scraping sounds, or display visible gaps where the gate should sit flush. These subtle changes are early indicators of wear or displacement.
Preventing Alignment Issues
Conduct monthly visual checks, especially after heavy storms or accidental impact. Avoid operating a gate that appears crooked or unstable. Fraser Gates offers professional realignment services as part of their maintenance plans, keeping gates level, safe, and efficient.
Tip 7: Watch for Early Signs of Electrical Fluctuations
Understanding Electrical Faults
Power surges, inconsistent voltage, or poor grounding can affect the gate’s electronics. These problems can cause intermittent functionality or lead to complete component failure. Electrical fluctuations represent the most unpredictable electric gate problem, often striking without warning.
Warning Signs
Symptoms include the gate randomly stopping mid-cycle, the control panel flickering, or delayed response from access systems. Left unresolved, these issues may escalate into a full system outage.
Prevention Techniques
Surge protectors and uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) help stabilise voltage and protect sensitive components. According to the ECA, professional-grade electrical installations and grounding are essential to meet safety standards and prevent system-wide failures.
Fraser Gates can inspect and enhance your system’s power protection, especially for properties in areas with unstable mains electricity or frequent outages.
Eliminate Electric Gate Problems with Fraser Gates
Electric gate problems are often avoidable. From water ingress to overloaded motors and neglected safety features, the root causes tend to stem from environmental wear, misuse, or delayed maintenance. As this guide has shown, a few simple, proactive steps can drastically reduce the likelihood of breakdowns, extend the life of your system, and maintain ongoing safety and compliance.
So it’s a great investment that pays for itself over time, and if you’re a homeowner, facilities manager, or commercial landlord, it’s the best solution to start safeguarding your property and peace of mind.
Fraser Gates offers professional maintenance services that go beyond routine checks. With safety-first inspections, bespoke servicing plans, and fast, local support, you can trust Fraser Gates to keep your electric gate operating smoothly all year round.
Contact us today to book your electric gate inspection or maintenance service.