An automatic driveway gate adds security and convenience, but heat, humidity, heavy rain and constant use take a toll. A few minutes of maintenance every month or two can prevent most breakdowns.
Monthly checks
- Watch a full open and close cycle. The gate should move smoothly without jerking, grinding or stopping.
- Test the safety sensors. Walk or place an object in the path while the gate closes. It should stop or reverse.
- Clear the path. Remove leaves, gravel, branches and debris from tracks and around hinges.
- Check the remote and keypad range. If they only work up close, replace the remote batteries first.
Every few months
- Lubricate hinges, rollers and moving joints with a product suited to outdoor metal.
- Tighten loose bolts on hinges, brackets and the operator arm.
- Inspect sliding gate tracks for bends, rust or sinking concrete.
- Look at the operator housing for ant nests, water or chewed wires. Ants are a common cause of gate operator failures in Texas.
Before and after storms
Before a big storm, make sure the gate can be opened manually in case of a power outage, and know where the release key is. After heavy wind or flooding, check for bent panels, leaning posts and water in the control box before running the gate.
Signs it is time to call a technician
- The gate stops partway or reverses for no reason
- Clicking or humming from the operator with no movement
- The gate sags, drags on the ground or will not latch
- The operator is getting very hot or smells like burning
We repair and install swing gates, sliding gates, automatic gates and gate openers across Greater Houston.
Need help now? Call All In One Garage Doors at (832) 434-7291 for garage door and gate service across Houston, Friendswood, Pearland, League City, Pasadena, Sugar Land, Katy and the surrounding cities.