If you are in charge of a gated property, it is understandable to be concerned with security. But how can you provide security without sacrificing accessibility? This is where gate openers enter.
Electric gate openers are a safe and secure way to easily enter your property. This article gives you insight into these modern devices.
What Is an Electric Gate Opener?
An electric gate opener is a motorized device that automatically opens a gate after being activated by an authorized credential. The credentials for this gate automation system can range anywhere from smartphone apps or pin codes to trigger the gate motor. However, the gate opener physically moves the gate to permit access.
You can find electric gate openers for pedestrian entrances and driveways on residential and commercial properties alike. However, each property has its own specific needs. So, finding the best opener for your premises may not be as easy as you think.
Electric gate openers vary in terms of power, durability, and the maximum weight of the gate they can hold. By picking the right gate opener, you will save yourself a lot of hassle while providing a top-notch access experience for the residents.
How Does an Electric Gate Opener Work?
In simple words, electric gate openers operate when they receive an electric signal from the outside. Your credentials generate this signal and instruct the gate operator on how to move the physical gate components, like the lever and motor.
Electric gate openers are part of a gate access system with these parts:
- Power motor: Provides the main power for the opener’s operation and controls the gate's opening speed.
- Control Panel: The command center that stores the data of the authorized users and their credentials to permit access. At the same time, you can also use it to adjust the gate opening range and opening speed.
- Credential Reader: Responsible for issuing a corresponding command from the outside to open the date. For instance, a resident might swipe-to-open on their smartphones or punch in a pin code depending on the installed access control systems.
Benefits of an Electric Gate Opener
Security
An automatic gate opener on your property will restrict pedestrian and vehicle access to your home or business and the surrounding areas. This means your house, possessions, and, most importantly, your family will be safe and secure. Furthermore, it is also a great way to keep out wild animals and unwanted intruders.
Convenience
If you’ve ever had to manually open a gate (or two) in the rain while running late for work and close it again before driving off, you’ll understand when we say an electric gate opener provides great convenience. It is time-saving and helpful in terrible weather conditions and late-night hours when you don’t know who’s around.
Privacy
Having the ability to limit access to your facility creates a sense of privacy that is otherwise hard to achieve. The secure functionality of electric gate openers allows you to reduce the potential of theft and people’s ability to peak into your house – all at the switch of the remote control.
Cost-Effective
Installing an electric gate opener is a cost-effective solution to save you money. Many companies charge you lower insurance premium if you have secure gated property. This is because of the decreased risk of burglary and vandalism and increased property protection.
Increased Curb Appeal
Aside from the apparent security benefits, an electric gate opener can also improve your house's overall feel and look, increasing its value. Whether it's placed at the back or front entrance, you'll be able to greet guests in style.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Most Suitable Electric Gate Opener
With such a wide variety of models available, selecting the right electric gate opener can be overwhelming. However, considering these key factors can help narrow your options, ensuring your opener is suitable for your security gate.
Material
A gate opener is often exposed to harsh weather conditions and other destructive elements that can compromise its lifespan. Therefore, going for a gate style with weather-resistant construction is always better.
One should also consider the availability of accessories and parts like an arm or gate motor that may require occasional replacement. If these parts aren't easily available, the security of your gate may get compromised.
Compatibility With the Gate
As we mentioned earlier, electric gate openers come in different designs. They can primarily be divided into swinging and sliding gate opener categories. And even within these two categories, there is a ton of variation.
To save yourself the time and hassle of ordering an opener incompatible with your security gate, consult an installer before finalizing your decision.
Temperature Range
Consider that your electric gate opener sometimes has to function in extreme temperatures, so you must ensure these temperatures can be handled before getting one.
Power Consumption
Electric gate openers require an electricity source to function, which means they consume energy to do so. These automatic gate openers require a certain amount of power while operating and on standby. Luckily, most of these modern systems are energy-efficient.
Setup
It is preferable to go for a gate automation system that is easy to assemble (unless you are willing to call in and pay a professional for the gate installation). For example, a good electric gate opener should include an operating manual and a comprehensive list of installation instructions.
Emergency Release
One major drawback of electric gate openers is their inability to function during power outages. But, getting a security gate system with emergency release can allow operation during such power disruptions and emergencies.
Final Words
An electric gate opener is a worthwhile consideration to make your entry and exit easy, eliminating the need to open or close the gate physically. Some newer models, with their high-tech features and access control systems, further make access to your driveway and property much more convenient.
After reading this blog post, you should have a good understanding of electric gate openers and how to choose the right one for your home. If you still have any queries, contact us – we'd be happy to help.
