How often should an automatic gate be serviced

Residential gates

A lightly used residential driveway may need less frequent attention than a strata or warehouse entrance, but it should still be checked before small movement, battery or safety faults become breakdowns

Coastal exposure, trees, insects, drainage problems and gates used many times each day justify more frequent inspection

Safe checks between services

Keep the gate path, track and visible safety devices clear, and look for obvious damage, loose hardware, unusual noise or changes in movement. Use only light lubrication at points the manufacturer identifies as suitable and safe

Do not remove electrical covers, adjust force or travel settings, place hands near hinges, rollers, chains or racks, or bypass a safety device. Isolate the system and call a technician if movement becomes unpredictable or unsafe

Commercial and high-use gates

High-cycle entrances, critical vehicle routes and sites where a breakdown stops operations need planned maintenance based on usage and risk

The service plan should include the gate, operator, controls, safety devices, access inputs and any emergency or manual-release procedure

What useful servicing includes

A proper service checks mechanical condition, fasteners, travel, limits, motor operation, enclosures, batteries, cables, safety response and access functions. Lubrication alone is not a complete service

• Gate movement and alignment
• Rack, chain, wheels, hinges and stops
• Controls, limits, batteries and connections
• Photocells, loops and safety response
• Manual release and user controls
• Condition report with priorities