A Simple Troubleshooting Guide for Automated Gate Owners
If your automated gate stops halfway, moves unevenly, or seems unpredictable, you are not alone — this is one of the most common problems automated gate owners face. The good news is that many of these issues can be identified (and sometimes fixed) without needing advanced technical knowledge. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide for homeowners and business owners.
⚠️ Safety First — Please Read Before Troubleshooting
While this guide provides common areas to check when your gate makes unusual noises, we are not encouraging you to attempt an inspection or repair.
Automated gates are powerful machines that can cause injury if handled improperly. Before you decide to troubleshoot, please consider the following:
Things to Keep in Mind:
- Only inspect or troubleshoot if you feel safe and comfortable.
- Never place your hands near moving parts while the gate is powered.
- Do not attempt to disassemble the motor, control panel, or internal electronics unless you are a trained technician.
- Avoid standing in the gate’s swing or sliding path while testing.
- Always turn off power before performing any hands-on checks, especially near the mechanical or electrical parts.
- Keep children, pets, and bystanders away from the gate during any inspection or testing.
- If you feel unsure at any step, it’s best to stop immediately and contact a qualified gate professional.
✅ Step 1: Check for Obstructions
- Look for anything physically blocking the gate’s path.
- Dirt, leaves, sticks, rocks, or even garden hoses can get in the way.
- If you have a sliding gate, check the tracks for buildup.
- For swing gates, make sure nothing is restricting the hinges or arms.
- Clear the area and try opening the gate again.
✅ Step 2: Inspect the Gate Tracks or Hinges
- For sliding gates:
- Check the tracks for bent sections, rust, or damage.
- Make sure the rollers are properly seated in the track.
- For swing gates:
- Inspect the hinges for rust, misalignment, or looseness.
- Confirm the gate arms are securely attached and moving freely.
- Tip: If you notice dirt or debris buildup, clean it out and lubricate the moving parts with a recommended lubricant like white lithium grease or silicone spray.
✅ Step 3: Check the Power Supply
- Make sure the gate has power.
- Check for a tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse.
- If your system has a backup battery, ensure it is charged and connected properly.
- Power interruptions often cause gates to stall mid-operation.
✅ Step 4: Inspect for Sensor Issues
- Automated gates use safety sensors to detect objects and prevent damage.
- Clean the sensor lenses with a soft cloth.
- Make sure the sensors are aligned and facing each other correctly.
- Remove any cobwebs, dirt, or leaves that could block the sensor beam.
- A misaligned or dirty sensor may stop the gate mid-cycle thinking there’s an obstacle.
✅ Step 5: Check for Mechanical Wear or Damage
- Look for:
- Loose bolts, screws, or brackets.
- Worn-out chains, rollers, or hinges.
- Signs of rust or corrosion.
Tip: If something looks worn or damaged, do not force the gate. Call a professional for further inspection.
✅ Step 6: Reset the Gate System
- Some gate operators have a manual reset or power cycle function.
- Turn the system off, wait about 30 seconds, and turn it back on.
- In some cases, this will reset the system and restore normal operation.
✅ Step 7: Test the Gate Again
- After performing these basic checks, try operating the gate again.
- If the gate opens and closes smoothly — great! If not, you may be dealing with a more advanced problem.
✅ When to Call a Professional
If your gate continues to:
- Stop halfway
- Move unevenly or jerks frequently
- Makes unusual sounds (grinding, screeching, buzzing)
- Shows signs of electrical or control panel issues
- Not reliability operate
it’s time to call an experienced automated gate technician. Attempting to force or continue operating the gate may lead to more serious damage or a safety hazard!