As the name implies, an automatic gate installation will grant entry and exit to a person without requiring manual or physical intervention. There are sensors attached to the gates and your proximity to the sensors will trigger a pre-programmed action from the gate.

The thoughtful invention was made by Dee Horton and Lew Hewitt in 1954, after noting the difficulty people encountered while attempting to open heavy doors. In 1960, the first installation was done, and this invention has seen various improvements as the years go by.

  Currently, there is the use of fast motors which increase the speed at which the gates open and close. Also, there are solar gate openers that use solar power to run. Other additions like inbuilt cameras, biometric systems, and alarms have also been added to make the automatic gates even smarter.

 The demand for automatic gates and doors is fast growing. A report by Market Research Future (MRFR) has shown an expected Compound Annual Growth Rate of 6.8% by the year 2025. More commercial and residential buildings are investing in this useful innovation, so it is expected that a lot of additions will be made to the already existing edition of the automatic gates to make it more convenient for users.

Components of an automatic gate

There are two basic components of an automatic gate. The gate itself, and the gate opener.

The Gate:

This is the actual component being automated. It is the most prominent component because, without it, there will be no automation. There are several types of gates, and you can choose a gate either due to personal preference or the specific purpose of the gate. Here are the main types of gates in use today:

• Sliding gates: This will open horizontally, and stand on a rail.
• Cantilever gates: This gate also slides along horizontally. They function just like sliding gates but the difference is that they are weighted on one slide allowing the gate to be suspended off the ground, instead of running on tracks.
• Swinging gates: These gates open in an inward and outward position.
• Bi-folding gates: These are great for small spaced areas. They can be folded in.
• Vertical gates: These gates open upwards and downwards.

The gate operator:

These components ensure the unobstructed automatic operation of the gate. They are the electronic elements that help in the actual automation of the gate. There are various elements integrated for a particular purpose. They are also electrically powered and can be driven by chain, gear, or hydraulic.

 Here are some parts of the gate operators:

• 120 Vac power supply
• The motor
• Electronic inputs like the push button, key switch, radio receiver, and telephone entry system.
• Power button: The On and Off switch.
• Alarm system
• The modular board.

How are automatic gates installed?

Automatic gates should be installed by expert technicians. This is because if improperly installed, it can be quite dangerous to use. The installation process is simple and can be completed within a short time with the right experience level.

Here are the steps for the installation:

• Prepare the gates: You must ensure that the gate is well balanced on its hinges, and can swing freely. That said, the gate must be rust-free, and any part of it that has been damaged or worn should be replaced before trying to automate it.
• Choose the correct positioning of the gate and the gate opener: This is a very important step for first-time installations. If you are trying to automate an already existing gate, then you can hardly change the position.  After choosing a suitable placement for the gates, then choose an equally suitable part of the gate to place the opener. Most times, it is better placed at the center of the gate, and out of the reach of the public, therefore installing it inside and not outside the gate is the better decision.
• Install the bracket assembly and the opener arm
• Mount the stopper: This will keep the gate in a stable position when it is closed. Connect the stop plate to the edge of the gate frame, then tighten the stopper there.
• Electronic connection: Here, the battery wires, cables, and transformers are connected.
• Last touches: This is the stage where you make the necessary completions. Set up the controls, set your preferred auto gate closing time if needed, then go ahead and test your connection. 

 If well installed, your gates should now slide properly and respond to commands.

How much does it cost to automate a gate?

The cost of automating an existing gate will differ from the cost of getting a new automated gate. Also, the automation cost will depend largely on the type of gate being used as well as the material the gate is made from.

Generally, the total cost of the gate will consist of the following costs:

1. The price of the gate itself
2. The automation cost
3. The installation fee
4. The regular maintenance and service cost.

Considering the type of gate, swing gates will be more expensive than sliding gates since sliding gates require just one gate, and swing gates require two. A sliding gate in Nigeria presently costs about ₦300,000 – ₦500,000.  When it comes to the gate material, Iron gates and stainless steel gates are the most expensive, costing from ₦500,000 to ₦1,500,000. They are usually the strongest, while wooden gates are the weakest and least expensive.

The automation cost will include the cost of the motor. A typical motor kit that contains the motor, mounting plates, and brackets, the remote control, a steel track, and a 12 V battery backup will cost about ₦380,000.

The installation fee will cost about ₦200, 000.

In total, getting an automatic gate will have an initial cost of about ₦1,000,000 – ₦2,000,000 depending on a number of factors.

The open and close cycle of automatic gates.

After the sensor is activated, and the gate opens to allow someone into your house, how long should it be before it closes again? From the factory setting, this feature is OFF. Now, this setting is adjustable from 3 to 120 seconds. So the gate can be set to remain open for a maximum of 120 seconds after it reaches its fully open position.

You can pick a preferred close time by tuning it with a small, flat-blade screwdriver. You need to pick your close time wisely, you do not want to pick a time that is too sudden, say, 3 seconds, because that would be risky. Also, you do not want to leave your gates open for too long after the job is completed.

How can you open your electric gate with your phone?

Every day, new additions are made to existing technological systems. Imagine getting your gate to open for you with your cell phone! Here are three major ways to implement this:

• Gate access control systems

Using this system, a device will have to be mounted on the gates and doors, and the information of all occupants of the property that are authorized will be loaded into the system. Various access control systems have various modes of operation. While some will require a mobile app downloaded on the phones of all users, others can make the connection via Bluetooth.  With this system, only those registered in the device will be granted access to the property.

• Intercom system:

Some systems require visitors to stop and introduce themselves to someone in the house over the phone before they are granted access. This introduction could be audio or video, depending on the type of intercom used.

The gate opening method depends on preference. Some systems allow you to swipe up on your phone to open the gate and slide down to close it. Others use a voice command like Siri or Alexa to get access, while others allow the 3D/ haptic touch technology.

Benefits of having automatic gates

Electric gates are very versatile benefit providers. In addition to increasing security and adding aesthetics to a building, electric gates also add value to properties. According to research, the presence of an electric gate in a building adds about 5% to a property’s value. This means a house with an electric gate is more likely to sell faster than one without.

Now, you can hardly deny the appeal that an electric gate brings to a potential buyer. This is the tech age and more people are opting for a modernized way of living. The idea of having comfort, being more secured, and getting more privacy in a property gives this prestigious feeling that immediately compels the buyer to purchase the house. This in turn increases the home value from the perspective of the potential buyer.

The next time you think about the high initial cost of installing electric gates, think of it as an investment that will certainly produce returns for you sooner or later.

Features that enhance the security of automatic gates.

One important consideration when trying to make any property-related decision in the world today is security. Now, there are some features embedded in automatic gates that enhance their security. Here are some of these features:

• System integration: The fact that you can easily integrate your gates with the communication system in your home and have access to it from your comfort zone increases its security. Having a working system inform you of all possible moves around your automatic gate is reassuring.
• Privacy: With an automatic gate, you can choose who gets access to your property. This means you are secured to an extent since intruders will not find it easy getting in. Also, there is the recent anti-tailgating mechanism that closes the gate behind your vehicle fast enough to prevent a possible tailgater from following you in.
• Burglary thought prevention: Having an automatic gate usually gives outsiders this mentality that your property is very high-tech protected and not an easy conquest. This will help get the mind of burglars off your property and remove it from a possible target list from burglars. 

With the availability of these features, it is safe to say that automatic gates are very secure.

How much electricity do automatic gates use?

The amount of electricity consumed by an electric gate will depend on the frequency of usage of the gates. While they are stationary and doing no work, the gates can consume up to 100 Watts daily on average. In most residential buildings, the average number of times the gate will open is 15 times daily.

This will consume about 700 Watts. Contrary to the popular belief, running and maintaining an electric gate is not expensive. Yes, with the addition in electricity consumption, your utility bills are bound to increase. However, the benefits gotten from using electric gates justify the increase. Also, there is the availability of solar gate openers that can run your gates with the energy from the sun and save you from additional utility bills.

What is the life expectancy of electric gates?

Several factors can contribute to the lifespan of your gates. The average life expectancy of an electric gate is about 15 to 20 years. However, this will only be effective if the gate was installed properly in the first place, and is regularly maintained. A low-frequency usage gate should be serviced at least once a year, a moderately used gate should be serviced at least 3 times a year and a regularly used gate, like the ones in commercial properties, should be serviced about 4 times annually.

If this service rate is followed judiciously, then the electric gate should complete its original life expectancy. Note that your gate is subject to deterioration from natural elements like wind and rain, and also some gate accidents like objects ramming into the gate can occur, causing wear and tear of the gate material. Fixing damages immediately after they are noticed will help to maintain the life expectancy of the gates.

Conclusively, electric gates are worth it. Moving deeper into the tech age, we need to start exploring some of these amazing inventions. One thing you must consider before installing electric gates is your installer. A poorly done installation job will result in problems sooner or later. Therefore, it is advisable to get high-quality work done.

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT AUTOMATIC GATES

As more people are switching from manual to automatic gates, more questions about these gates are arising. An electric gate that is properly installed and well maintained will serve as both a present and a future home investment. Here we have compiled the answers to possible questions you might have about electric gates.

Running power to an electric gate

Automatic gates are also called electric gates. This is because electric supply is a very pertinent component for the effective functioning of these gates. The recommended supply for a residential property that is used frequently is 230 V ac or 24 Vdc from a consumer unit. This supply will conveniently carry the gates for about 15 to and fro movements.

Now to run power to your gates, a 230 V, 10 A power supply will be connected to one side of the automatic gate entrance. 

What happens if the power goes off?

So one of the major fears of using automatic gates that are experienced by most people is the fear of sudden power outage since the gates are powered by electricity. However, this fear is borne by ignorance and we are here to correct it. Almost all gates come with an inbuilt override that lets you operate the gate in a manual mode, in cases of emergencies like this. A manual release key is included in your gate kit and with this, you can unlock the motor.

For a sliding gate;

• Insert the key into the motor and open the motor door.
• This automatically disengages the automatic feature.
• You can then push your gate manually.

For a swinging gate, the process is a bit more complicated.

• There is a bolt placed underneath the gate motor, using a spanner to loosen the bolt.
• Push the gate arm down
• You can now manually open the gate

Remember to return them to their normal positions when the power supply is restored to re-engage the automatic control. For the sliding gate, you can do this by closing the motor door and removing the key. For the swinging gate, you need to put the arm back in place and tighten the bolt.

How do automatic gate openers work?

Different openers for different gate types operate with different mechanisms. For a swing gate, the opener is connected to the gate arm to enable it to swing in the proper direction. When the opener receives an electric impulse from either remote control or a keypad, it is triggered to open.

The remote control method is the easiest. The keypad method will require you to enter a pin into the keypad before the gate lets you in. There is also the card access method which has a built-in chip, and this opener is triggered by swiping your card over the region.

Commercial automatic gate users mostly use keypads for the gate access, while residential properties might prefer to use sensors at the gate. When a vehicle is within the proximity of the sensor, the sensor sends a signal to the gate opener which opens the gate.

Choosing a gate opener will depend on several factors like the type of gate, width and density, and your chosen power source for the gate. Automatic gates are designed to create ease for you as a property owner.

How does a sliding gate work?

Sliding gates are preferred in places where the space is limited. They have a robust design which makes it difficult to force open the gates. This is because the access points are hard to reach. However, they require a high level of maintenance. There are different kinds of sliding gates. There are;

The tracked sliding gate which is the regular sliding gate, the telescopic sliding gate is made up of two gates stacked in front of each other when they open. Then there is the cantilever sliding gate which does not run on tracks but has its weight supported on one side, allowing it to be suspended off the ground.

Features of a sliding gate

• Tracks: this is installed at the base of the gates.
• Wheels: The roller wheels are balanced on the tracks and are in charge of the movement of the gate. It carries a large part of the gate’s weight.

The sliding gate has an operator and inside it, you will find a motor and a gearbox. The gearbox controls the track on which the gate wheels lie, while the motor handles the automation of the open and close motion. These materials are placed at an inconspicuous side of the gate, well away from notice. When a car or person approaches the sensor at the gate, the operators will cause the gate to slide along making room for the entrance of the person or vehicle. After a while, the gate then closes back.

How can gates be converted to electric gates?

So, you finally decided to elevate your comfort game and get an electric gate, but you would rather use your manual gates and make them automatic. Is this possible? Yes, it is. If you can operate your electric gates manually in times of distress, then you should also be able to convert your manual gates to automatic. That is, of course, when they fulfil some conditions which include;

• Ensure that the gate posts support automatic systems. For instance, a wooden gate post will have to be replaced.
• You must ensure that the base of a swing gate swings freely, and is not being dragged on the ground.
• Stiff or loose-fitting hinges should also be replaced.
• The track for the sliding gate must be straight without any form of movement obstruction.
• A concrete pad should be mounted as a stand for the incoming motor.

After all the conditions have been fulfilled, it is time to begin the automation process.

In most cases, gate openers are used. There are three main methods used to motorize sliding gates. These are underground motors, articulated arms, and rams.

For underground motors, the motoring system is buried beneath the ground and connected to the gates. A lot of people prefer this method because it is aesthetically pleasing. This method is however not recommended for areas without proper drainage as the motor submerged in the ground can be prone to damages without proper drainage in the compound.

The articulated method is the most commonly used method for automating a gate. These motors have scissors arms and therefore they use a scissor-like motion to open the gates.

The ram method is suitable for Gates that are mounted on posts. This method is also suitable for areas that are prone to flooding.

How long does a remote gate battery last?

The gate battery will likely sustain some damages after exceeding its life expectancy. Normally, a gate battery should live for about 2 to 3 years, functioning properly. However, this will only be possible with proper and intentional care. The battery voltage is usually above 12V and should stay that way. The moment your battery voltage goes below 10.5V, it will need a replacement.

Here is how you can maintain the battery life.

• Disengage it when there is a power failure: When there is a sudden power outage, your battery is not designed to function as a backup for your automatic gates. However, it will sustain the gates for some time. This is bad for your battery as this will run down your battery if it is done consistently. Therefore, the best thing to do is disengage the motor from the power supply and operate the gate manually until power is restored.
• Do not charge very frequently: Overcharging can cause the battery to start developing faults. If you must charge your battery frequently, it is advised to use a good source like solar to charge the batteries.
• Regular checks on your battery: Ensure that there are no build-ups around the terminals of your battery. Always wipe off dirt and keep them in a dry, safe place. Also, always ensure that your battery terminals are connected properly.

How long do electric gates last?

When designed and installed properly, and also maintained well, electric gates should last for about 15 to 20 years. These gates are exposed to various weather elements, so sometimes they suffer several damages, both the internal and external components.

There are times when you can repair the gates when they get faulty, but at some point, it might need a complete replacement. Here are some signs that your gate needs a complete replacement;

• Reduced functionality: If you notice that your gate is no longer as active as it used to be, and is now very slow with the operation, then it might be time to completely replace it. The purpose of automating your gate is for swift actions and if the gate is defying this purpose, then it is no longer relevant.

• No available spare parts: if you try to repair a part of your gate and notice that the spare parts are no longer in the market, then this might be a sure sign that your gate is outdated and should be replaced.

• The motor is damaged: If you notice that your gate motor is now badly damaged, then it might be time to change the gate entirely.

The higher the quality of your gate, the longer it will last for you. Keep this in mind when next you are choosing a gate to be installed.

How often do electric gates need servicing?

The number of times your gate should be serviced will depend on several reasons like the frequency of usage. Gates like every other machine are subject to wear and tear when used constantly. Even when not in use, there are unavoidable weather conditions to consider. Here are some reasons why it is important to service your electric gates regularly;

• It reduces your risk of accidents and other health hazards.
• It prolongs the life of your gates.
• It is cost-effective because you are able to rectify problems before they grow into larger ones.
• You are assured that your gate meets the standing health and safety rules and regulations.

What exactly is done during gate servicing? Here are some of the necessary checks that are made.

• Proper lubrication of all mechanical parts to avoid rusting and ease movement.
• Inspection for possible oil leaks.
• Checking for possible structural deformities
• Checking the manual release
• Checking the intercom system.
• Inspect the functionality of the automation settings.
• Overall testing.

Generally, systems that are used less frequently like in residential settings should be serviced at least once a year. Systems that are used quite often like in commercial settings should be serviced two to three times annually. While very active systems like the ones in a public entry post should be serviced about four times a year.

Do electric gates have a manual override?

Yes, most electric gates have a manual override. This is made possible with the provision of a key. With this key, you can switch the automatic function to a manual one by simply putting it in the motor ignition.

When is it okay to use the manual override of the gate?

• When there is a sudden power outage.

With a sudden power outage, you can use the motor battery for a while, but as soon as it runs down, it stops functioning properly. If you would rather save the battery to prevent it from getting issues, then you can decide to activate the manual override and use the gate manually until the power is restored. You can simply disengage the manual function by removing the key from the motor door ignition, and it will go back to its automatic mode.

Automatic gates are very useful and in the long run, they are a good investment for your property. The first positive step will be to employ a reliable contractor to handle the choosing, installing and maintenance of your electric gates.

 How much does it cost to automate a gate?

This obviously depends on the type of gate and the level of automation you want. On average, automating a gate costs anywhere from ₦300,000 – ₦500,000.

Are Automatic gates worth it?

Yes. There are so many advantages to having an automated gate. Most times, when the pros outweigh the cons, then the idea is generally worth it.

What is an automatic gate called?

Automatic gates are also called electric gates.

How long should an automatic gate stay open?

Almost automatic gates, an auto-close time is set. This will determine how long the gate stays open before it closes automatically. This time is set according to personal preference, but on average, an automatic gate should not be open for more than 120 seconds.

How do you install an automatic gate?

Here are steps that are followed in order to successfully install an automatic gate.

• Select the gate and choose the positioning
• Prepare the gate: Make sure the surface is suitable.
• Fix the gate track
• Lay the gate properly
• Install guide brackets
• Fix the gate catcher and stopper.
• Make the electronic connections that actually automate the gate.
• Your automated gates should be ready for testing.

How do you install an automatic driveway gate?

• Prepare the gate
• Install the gate post brackets
• Hang the gate on the prepared hinges
• Connect the opener arm to the post bracket
• Install the electronics.
• Test the gate.

Are automatic gates secure?

Automatic gates can prevent unauthorized entry into your building, thereby increasing your security. Also, some gates are designed to provide privacy to the residents of the building. Finally, by integrating your gates with other systems in your property, you have better control of the security of your home at large.

Do electric gates add value to a property?

Yes. Prospective buyers always opt for electric gates, so having this in your property will increase the chances of your house getting sold.

Are electric gates safer?

Because electric gates provide the comfort and ease that we desire, we often pronounce it safer than manual gates. For safety, you must first ensure that the gates are properly installed. A badly installed gate can cause a disaster. Because technology makes it easier for you to control situations, electric gates tend to be safer than manual gates.

How do automatic gate openers work?

The automatic gate opener has a sensor that responds to objects that are within proximity of the sensor. Different gates have different mechanisms of operations but the basic functionality is that a remote control triggers an electric impulse that causes the gate to open and close as required.

How much do sliding gates cost?

Sliding gates cost between ₦500,000and ₦1,500,00 depending on the exact type of gate in place.

How are automatic gates powered?

They have electric motors that are powered from a mains power supply that operates on a 230Vac or 24Vdc supply.

How do you manually open an automatic gate?

There is a bypass for all electric-controlled gates. These systems are put in place in case of unforeseen circumstances like a sudden power outage. Here is an easy step you can follow:

• Locate the bolt underneath the gate motor and unscrew it.
• Push the arm downwards and this will enable you to open the motor
• Once you open the motor, you will automatically override the automatic control and can use the gate manually.

How long do electric gates last?

A high-quality gate that was fixed with expertise will last for about 15-20 years.

Can a gate motor work without a battery?

The power source of a motor is the battery. Because this is the driver, if it is down, the motor cannot function properly. Therefore, when there is a power outage, the battery can sustain the motor for a while, but once it runs down, the motor stops working.

How do you install an electric sliding gate?

• Preparation stage: Here you determine important parameters like the opening width, positioning of the gate, receiving posts and guide support posts, etc.
• Install the motor and sliding rack
• Put in mechanical stops
• Confirm that the wiring is properly done, then test the gate.

How much electricity do gates use?

This depends hugely on the activity of the gates. A gate that is used frequently can consume more than 700 W daily while a gate that is used less often can consume as little as 100 W daily.

How does a sliding gate work?

Sliding gates have two wheels underneath them which are fitted to the track of the gate. These tracks are in turn fitted to the ground. A motor is connected to the gate and this is what powers the opening and closing movements of the gate.

Can I install my own electric gates?

Trying a DIY installation of gates is not illegal. The bad thing about doing this incompetently is that the gate will either function poorly or worse, cause destruction. So, if you think you are handy and have got a really explanatory YouTube video then go ahead and attempt installing your own electric gates. The procedure is not a complicated one.

Can you make a gate automatic?

Yes. Existing manual gates can be modified into automatic gates.

Can you convert manual gates to electric gates?

Yes. Currently, there are electric gate kits that have all the necessary components and tools required to convert your gates from their manual state to an electric form.

What is the average cost of an electric gate?

On average, an electric gate can cost anywhere from ₦600,000 – ₦2,000,000.

Can electric gates be forced open?

Some gates are designed to automatically open during a power outage to prevent trapping people in or locking them out. However, electric gates can still be forced open when there is a power outage.

How do I run power to my electric gate?

The electric gate is powered by motors which are powered from the mains supply of either 230Vac or 24Vdc. To supply power here,  a 230V 10A power supply should be provided to a part of the driveway entrance where the gate will be installed.

What is the price of a gate?

Depending on the type of gate, it can cost anywhere from ₦200,000- ₦2,000,000.

Can electric gates run off a battery?

Yes, it can. If there is a power outage and the battery has exhausted its charged power, it runs off.

How do you open an electric gate with a cell phone?

With IP intercoms, telephone entry systems, or gate access control systems you can control your gate with your mobile phone. This is after you must have installed a mobile phone gate opener at the entrance of the gate. Some of these gate opener systems require the owner to use a button on the mobile app to open the gate while others use the Bluetooth connection to recognize the device which must have been pre-registered on the system and grant the user access.

Do electric gates have a manual override?

Yes. Most electric gates have a manual override. This prevents people from being stuck during emergency situations.

How do you open a driveway gate without power?

There is a little door on the motor that gives you access to the motor once you input the key provided for you. Once the motor door is open, you can operate the gate manually.

How often do electric gates need servicing?

Residential gates are used for a lesser period, so they should be serviced about 1-2 times annually. Mediumly used gates like car garage doors should get up to 3 times annual service. While more frequently used gates like the ones in commercial buildings should be serviced quarterly.

How long does a remote gate battery last?

Gate batteries last for about 2-3 years on average.

How do you change the battery in a gate motor?

• Turn off the motor power supply.
• Unlock the plastic lid to gain access to the internal parts
• Lift the controller board up and out of the way
• Unclip the terminal cables and find the battery there.
• Lift out the battery and replace it with the new one.
• Fix the terminal cable clips again.
• Put the cover back in place, test, and see that the new battery is functioning.

With the information above, i think you are ready to purchase your very own Auto gate.