Choosing gate automation is a great way to enhance the curb appeal, security, and efficiency of your property without sacrificing convenience. As an added bonus, a fully automated gate is easier to open and close during inclement weather, making them an ideal investment for a variety of applications.
When buying electric automated gates, there are quite a few features and functions you should take into consideration. Here are some tips to use during the purchase process:
*Know The Size Of Your Gate
It’s important to know the exact size of your privacy gate as it dictates the type of electric opener it’ll need in order to function properly. This also means selecting the correct amount of power to ensure smooth operation.
*Consider The Type Of Opening You Need
There are generally three major types of gate openers that you can select from: automatic sliding, automatic swing, or automatic dual. The automatic dual opener has a double operating system and is ideal for smaller gates.
*Establish The Weight Of Your Gate
Gate openers require you to know the exact weight of your gate in order to function properly. They are built to withstand a certain amount of pounds. The weight of your gate does ultimately depend on the construction material(s) of choice, whether they are wooden, iron or composite gates will make a difference.
*Consider The Size Of Your Gate Columns
Automatic gate openers will attach directly to the gate columns. That means they need to be thick and sturdy enough to withstand this additional need to accommodate your opener.
*Check Your Climate
Depending on where you live, your area may be subject to extreme temperatures. If this is the case, ensure that your chosen gate opener is constructed to function in your type of climate.
*Know The Traction And Running Spree
The performance of your gate system is defined by the traction and running spree. Gates should have an adequate pulling force of 500N to 700N as well as motors that can handle 11 cm per second.
*Establish A Power Source
There are several ways that automated gates can operate with a power source. For example, they can use solar s, battery backups, AC power, or a combination of all three. This means your gate will have access to power 24/7 and will never actually turn off.
If you’re choosing to pursue AC automation for your gate, you will need to ensure that you have access to a source of electricity at the current location of your gate. Swinging and sliding gates both require AC power in order to function by being plugged into a main electrical outlet.
*Establish Your Patterns Of Use
Take into consideration how many times you will open and close your gate in a given day. The more you use it, the more strength and power it requires to operate adequately. Frequent use of your gate will cause the mechanical components to wear out much faster than occasional use. A heavy-duty opener is required for smooth operation if you plan on heavily using your gate.
*Create Backup Power
Good quality automated gates will always require the use of a trusted backup power source. Having a backup power source prevents the gate from getting stuck in an open or a closed position.
*Consider Potential Obstacles For Your Gate
Almost all gates have the power to stop and reverse when they sense a large obstacle such as a car. This is usually done through the use of infrared photo beams. Without this function, your car and other objects could incur serious damage.
*Keep Controls Safe
The controls used to operate the gate system should be kept out of the way. This is especially important as operating in the path of a moving gate can cause serious injury!
