Automatic Gate Openers - Electric Gate Operators
Automation and improved technology has provided the average homeowner with the feasibility to have a gate opener. Do your research and compare features to find the right one for your driveway gate.
Find, Compare, and Buy Automatic Gates
What do you need to know about a gate opener? Selecting the right gate opener depends on the type of gate you have, its weight, and how sophisticated you want the activation device. But understand the safety requirements for an automatic operating device and check your local building codes. This job is one for the professional gate installer.
Swing gates weighing between 400lbs to 800lbs and between ten feet and eighteen feet wide require a gate opener from 1/3 to 1/2 horsepower. If your gate will endure heavy traffic, consider a more robust one that has between 1/2 to 1 horsepower. Available with remote control activation or key pad code access.
Slide gates weighing between 300lbs to 1000lbs have an automatic gate opener with power between 1/2 to 1 HP. Available with either a remote activation, key pad or a sensor that opens the gate when a vehicle approaches the opening.
Injuries and even fatalities have occurred resulting from improper use or installation of a door gate operating device. When selecting a device, it is critical that the electric gate has an opener with the following safety features:
- A sensor that stops the gate if an object or person in the path in both the opening and closing cycle.
- Sensor will reverse an opening or closing movement.
- Gate opener has a manual override in case of a power failure, called a "fail-safe" system. If power fails, the gate can be opened safely. Not only a safety device, but required by building code in many cities.
- Gate should be able to be opened from the outside with a manual system to allow emergency vehicles access to the property.
- A battery back up system is critical for large gates. During a power failure, gate opens and remains open until the power is restored.
- Check the manufacturer has listed the electric gate opener as having endured laboratory testing. The most recognized testing labels are Underwriters Laboratories (U.L.) and Electrical Testing Laboratories (E.T.L.).
- Location of the gate access device is critical to prevent injury and death. The device must be in a position that the operator cannot touch the gate or reach through the gate to access it. To be safe, do not install the access device within ten feet of the gate.
- Provide a pedestrian gate separate from a vehicular gate.
- If you are installing ground-loop detection system, which controls vehicular traffic, be certain they are strategically placed.
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