This guide provides a detailed overview of the maintenance needs for electric gates. Just as you wouldn’t drive a car without regular servicing, electric gates require routine maintenance to ensure optimal performance and safety.
Electric gates, classified as machinery, must comply with the Machinery Directive. Neglecting maintenance can affect the gate’s longevity and compromise safety devices, posing serious risks.
Key maintenance tasks
- Inspecting and testing all safety devices for proper operation.
- Lubricating moving parts to prevent binding.
- Conducting force tests to ensure consistent operation, as performance can vary with temperature changes and control panel issues.
- Checking the control panel for pests, which can damage circuitry.
For residential gates, annual servicing is typical, but frequency depends on usage. High-traffic residential gates may need more frequent checks. Commercial gates generally require servicing every six months, but high-traffic areas might necessitate quarterly maintenance.
What About Warranty?
Warranty terms vary by manufacturer. For instance, Cade offers a three-year warranty, provided the gate is serviced according to their maintenance schedule.
Manufacturers of electric gates often provide warranties that are contingent on regular maintenance. For instance, some brands offer a three-year warranty provided the gate is serviced in accordance with their maintenance schedule. Regular servicing not only keeps the gate in optimal condition but also ensures that warranty terms are met, allowing you to benefit fully from the manufacturer’s guarantees.
The Importance of Maintaining and Servicing Electric Gates
Electric gates are not just a convenience but a crucial part of property security and accessibility. Regular maintenance and servicing of these gates are essential for several reasons, ranging from safety to cost efficiency. Here, we delve into the importance of maintaining and servicing electric gates.
Ensures Safety
Safety is paramount when it comes to electric gates. These gates are classified as machinery and must comply with the Machinery Directive, which sets out essential health and safety requirements. Regular maintenance ensures that all safety devices, such as sensors and emergency stop functions, are operational. Failure in these devices can lead to serious accidents, potentially causing injury to users. By routinely checking and servicing the gate, you can prevent these risks, ensuring the gate operates safely for everyone.
Enhances Longevity
Electric gates are significant investments. To maximize this investment, it’s crucial to extend the lifespan of the gate through regular maintenance. Just like any mechanical system, electric gates experience wear and tear. Lubricating moving parts, checking motors, and cleaning the mechanisms help prevent premature deterioration. Regular servicing ensures that any potential issues are identified and addressed before they escalate into major problems, thus extending the overall life of the gate.
Improves Reliability
An electric gate that is not regularly serviced is prone to unexpected breakdowns. These disruptions can be highly inconvenient, especially for commercial properties where access control is critical. Regular maintenance enhances the gate’s reliability, ensuring smooth and consistent operation. By scheduling periodic checks and servicing, you minimize the chances of unexpected failures, which can disrupt daily activities and compromise security.
Compliance with Regulations
For both residential and commercial properties, compliance with safety and operational regulations is crucial. Electric gates must meet specific standards, and regular maintenance helps ensure these standards are continually met. Non-compliance can result in fines, legal liabilities, and insurance issues. Regular servicing ensures that the gate adheres to all relevant regulations, providing peace of mind and avoiding potential legal complications.
Cost Efficiency
While it might seem cost-effective to forego regular maintenance, the opposite is true. Preventive maintenance is far more economical in the long run compared to the cost of major repairs or replacements resulting from neglect. Regular servicing helps identify minor issues before they develop into significant problems that require costly fixes. Additionally, maintaining the gate’s optimal performance can lead to energy savings, particularly for gates with high-frequency use.
Protects Against Environmental Damage
Electric gates are exposed to various environmental factors such as dirt, debris, and weather conditions. Motors, often located in the ground, can become clogged with rubbish, mud, and other debris, leading to operational issues. Regular cleaning and servicing help protect the gate from these environmental elements, ensuring it remains functional and efficient.
Maintains Aesthetic and Functional Value
An electric gate is often a prominent feature of a property, contributing to its overall aesthetic appeal. Regular maintenance helps keep the gate looking good and functioning well, preserving both its aesthetic and functional value. A well-maintained gate enhances the property’s curb appeal and makes a positive impression on visitors or clients.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining and servicing an electric gate is essential for ensuring safety, enhancing longevity, improving reliability, complying with regulations, and achieving cost efficiency. Regular maintenance protects the gate from environmental damage, preserves its aesthetic value, and ensures compliance with warranty terms. Investing in routine maintenance is a prudent strategy to safeguard your investment and ensure the continuous, trouble-free operation of your electric gate.
For further advice or to schedule a survey, please contact us. We’re always available to discuss maintenance options and provide free consultations.
