The use of electric gates is common among individuals in today’s modern world, especially for those looking to add security, convenience, and cosmetic functionality to their properties. However, for those properties with electric gates in Chelmsford, it is important to consider regular electric gate maintenance. Failing to do so could lead to expensive fixing costs, unexpected downtime, and even pose safety hazards. Below are tips for individuals looking to maintain their electric gates with an in-depth look at five important areas.
How to Conduct Effective Electric Gate Maintenance?
Regular Visual Inspections
Amongst the easiest yet most efficient maintenance methods would be conducting a visual inspection periodically. It would be imperative to make a visual inspection of your electrical gate at least once per month. Ensure to check for any signs of wear and tear, particularly across the UK, where the weather changes frequently. Leaves, debris, and moisture can easily accumulate around your electric gate, specifically during the autumn and winter months. You should focus on removing them at the earliest to prevent the possibility of obstructions occurring, which could put stress on the motor. Professional inspections and maintenance allow any potential problems to be identified before major mechanical failures happen.
Moving Parts Must Be Clean & Lubricated
Electric gates use several parts like hinges, rollers, chains, and tracks. If this is not regularly lubricated, the parts may rust. Regular maintenance of the gate involves applying a manufacturer-recommended lubricant to the parts. However, over-lubrication should be avoided, given that excess grease can attract dirt and debris, which can lead to obstructions. In the case of sliding electric gates, the track should be clean and smooth, but for swing gates, extra care is necessary at the hinges or swing points.
Check the Motor and the Power Supply
The motor is the central part of your electric gate kit. You need to listen out for any strange sounds like grinding or humming, which may indicate problems inside the motor. Make sure the motor case or body is cleaned and free of any dirt or insects. You should also examine the power source. Look at the cables and check if there is any damage due to fraying. This might also impact your electric gates, as power fluctuations are common occurrences during the monsoon when water gets inside the power systems.
Test Safety Features and Access Controls
There are safety features available in the new electric gates, including photocells, pressure sensors, and an emergency shutdown function. These are essential in preventing accidents and also in meeting the safety standards according to the regulations. The sensors for test safety can be checked by passing a test object under the gate when the gate closes. Also, remote controls, keypads, intercoms, and access cards can be checked for their functionality. Properly functioning safety features not only guarantee the safety of people, but they can also be useful for extending the life of electric gates.
Schedule Professional Servicing
Although the maintenance work can be undertaken by the owners of the gates, it is important for the gates to be professionally maintained at least once a year. This is because a professional engineer will be able to check the gates comprehensively. For domestic and commercial properties that have electric gates, it would be extremely useful to employ a professional gates maintenance service.
Ensuring Smooth Operation with Proper Care
Maintenance is essential to ensure your electric gate is always functional, safe, and pleasing to the eye. With the help of periodic checks, lubrication of the moving components, checking the motor function, and testing the safety functionality of the electric gates, your electric gate is bound to last longer. Following an effective maintenance process will save you all the headaches. You can consider us here at Harper Fencing Ltd for the installation and maintenance of electric gates in Chelmsford.