Automatic gates are a great way to secure residential and commercial properties. However, a faulty or malfunctioning gate motor is inconvenient and can compromise the safety of your premises. If your gate is acting up, here are a handful of steps you can take to determine if your gate motor is to blame:

1. Verify the power supply. A gate motor needs a reliable power supply to work correctly. Check for any tripped circuit breakers or blown fuses in the electrical panel.
   
2. Check for obstructions. Inspect the gate area for any physical obstacles preventing the gate from moving freely. Remove debris, stones, or any objects blocking the gate’s path. Sometimes, a simple cleaning can solve the problem.
   
3. Inspect the remote or keypad. Check if the remote control or keypad is functioning correctly. Replace the batteries if needed. Verify that the signal is reaching the gate motor. Sometimes, the issue is as simple as a dead battery or a weak signal.
   
4. Try manually operating it. Attempt to use the gate manually if it has a release mechanism. This can help determine whether the motor or the gate is the issue. The problem might be with the gate track or rollers if the gate doesn’t operate smoothly.
   
5. Check the limit switches. These control the gate’s open and close positions. Misaligned or faulty limit switches can cause the gate motor to behave unpredictably. Sometimes, adjusting the limit switches can solve the problem.
   
6. Listen for strange sounds. Grinding, clicking, or humming may indicate motor or gearbox issues. If you notice any unusual sounds, it’s best to get it checked by a professional.
   
7. Inspect the drive mechanism. Determine if the rack and pinion or chain are damaged or misaligned. If everything looks okay, try lubricating the moving parts. Lack of lubrication can also cause the motor to work harder than usual, leading to motor burnout or damage.
   
8. Conduct a visual inspection. Look for loose wires, damaged cables, or visible signs of wear and tear. Inspect the motor’s gearbox for any leaks or damage. A damaged gearbox can cause the motor to overheat or fail altogether. If you notice any issues, it might be time to call a professional technician.

If you cannot identify the issue or are uncomfortable working with electrical components, call Creative Door Services™ for professional assistance. One of our technicians will visit your property to identify and fix the problem quickly.

However, if your gate motor is old or has significant damage or wear, they may suggest investing in an entirely new operator. We carry both swing and slide gate operators for light and commercial operations. We have models with the latest safety features and accessibility perks, including Wi-Fi connectivity.

How To Keep Your Gate Motor in Top Shape

Here are a few ways to keep your gate motor in good working order for as long as possible:

• Inspect the motor assembly frequently. Keep an eye on your gate motor. Check it weekly to identify any dents or loose panels that may expose or damage the motor’s electrical circuitry.
  
• Keep everything lubricated. Lubricate all your gate’s moving parts, including the chain, pulley, wheels, hinges, and screws. This will prevent sticking or corroded parts from putting extra strain on the motor, causing it to wear out prematurely.
  

• Watch for pests. Make sure your gate motor is completely sealed. This will ensure that insects and other pests won’t get inside your operator and compromise the motor’s electrical connections and circuit boards.

• Invest in professional maintenance. Preventative maintenance is the key to keeping your automatic gate motor moving smoothly. At Creative Door Services™, we offer a flexible planned maintenance program. One of our technicians will inspect every aspect of your gate and let you know if they see any problems emerging so they can address them before they become serious. Plus, we’ll keep track of the visits and let you know when your gate is due for another inspection, according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Commercial And Residential Gates in Western Canada

Whether you’re a home or a business owner, Creative Door Services™ carries residential and commercial gate systems to meet your needs. We have a wide range of options, from sleek and modern designs to more traditional styles. We also carry the parts and accessories you need to customize your gate system, so you can rest assured your property is secure and stylish.

To learn more about our products and services or to get a free quote, contact us today. We have eight locations to serve you. You can find us in Kelowna, British Columbia; Vancouver, British Columbia; Calgary, Alberta; Edmonton, Alberta; Fort McMurray, Alberta; Regina, Saskatchewan; Saskatoon, Saskatchewan; and Winnipeg, Manitoba.