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Automatic gate openers have become popular in recent years due to their convenience and security. But, what people fail to notice are solar gate openers.
A solar automatic gate opener also provides the same ease of use and protection as an electric gate opener. And yet, it still has many things to offer, especially for the environment.
Green homeowners opt for solar-powered gate installation for its beneficial effect on the surroundings. It reduces your home’s carbon footprint, reinforcing the world’s fight against climate change.
What Is a Solar-Powered Gate?
A solar-powered gate is a mechanism that does not rely on electricity from the national electric grid. Instead, it has a solar panel that stores the energy from the sun.
You can upgrade already existing gates to solar by installing solar panels and using reliable solar gate openers. The solar panels should be installed where they receive adequate sunlight every day.
During a sunny day, the solar automatic gate opener operates directly from the sun’s energy. At the same time, the photovoltaic cells convert photons to DC and store them in the battery for nighttime use.
The solar panels are attached to the control box. The solar cells these panels collect generate energy for daily use while also storing a portion of it in a battery in case of a power outage, bad weather conditions and nighttime use.
This automatic gate is a great option for securing large properties as long as the location of the property is convenient and gets enough sunshine.
Different Types of Solar-Powered Gates
Various gate designs can be operated with solar power as long as you have the right gate operator and applicable gate opener kit.
Sliding Gates
Sliding gates are the ones that have bottom wheels and move sideways along a track. This type of gate is better suited when there is limited space.
A solar sliding gate opener is needed for sliding gates to operate without mechanical intervention. With the help of a sliding gate opener, the side movements of the gate are automated by using solar energy from solar panels.
Swing Gates
Another common solar-powered gate is the swing gate. Swing gates are the ones you see that open inward or outward to grant access.
It’s further divided into two parts: the single swing gate and the double swing gate. A single swing gate only has one gate leaf attached directly to the post for its locking mechanism. Meanwhile, the dual swing gate has two leaves and opens in the middle between the two gates.
Solar-powered swing gates have also become a recent fad in many residential homes with enough space for installation.
Driveway Gates
A property’s exterior is more pleasing when a driveway gate is installed. Driveway gates can be powered by a compatible gate operator that fits your gate type.
Once a driveway gate is solar-powered, you get more control over its accessibility. Like electrical gates, a solar automatic gate opener can be operated through remote controls, phone apps, or key cards.
For better security protection, you can also enhance it with other features, like a driveway alarm.
5 Environmental Benefits of a Solar Automatic Gate Opener
1. Eco Friendly
People choose solar power because of its environmental benefits. Being environmentally sustainable, a solar gate operator uses sunlight instead of electricity. It reduces your carbon footprint and helps curb climate change.
2. Cost Friendly
A solar gate opener is also affordable and cost-efficient! You get to save tons and free yourself from those hefty electricity bills. Because it uses solar energy from the sun to operate the gate, you aren’t consuming electricity, keeping your bills more manageable.
Though you may spend a few bucks on buying the equipment and installation, the initial investment is worth it as it does wonders for your bank account in the long run.
3. Avoid Power Outages
Solar gates utilize a battery backup during power outages. Though the sun is its primary power source, a gate opener kit includes a battery for backup power for these instances. The battery also serves as the power source during cloudy and rainy weather and at night.
4. Hassle-Free Installation
Solar-powered gates are less complicated to install than electric automated gates. You don’t have to deal with messy and dangerous electrical wiring.
A solar automatic gate opener uses above-ground energy and should only be connected to a solar panel to function. Moreover, you can install a solar gate almost anywhere you want, regardless of how far it is from an electric power supply.
5. Tax Incentives
Several world governments promote greener substitutes in the hopes of slowing down global warming. One of the initiatives is to encourage people to use solar in the home instead of electricity.
So, check your government’s program if you opt to install a solar gate or perhaps make your entire home solar-powered. You will most likely find a program that provides a certain percentage tax credit.
When Solar Gate Openers Are Not for You
Utilizing solar gate openers indeed has its advantages. With its many benefits, why don’t all households have them installed? That is mainly because not all gates can be powered solely by solar energy.
Automatic gate openers that are solar-powered only rely on the sun’s energy. But, this energy isn’t meant for heavily trafficked areas where gates close and open often daily, such as in commercial businesses.
When the gate’s location doesn’t get enough sunlight, there is no way for the panels to charge. Depending on your panel's capacity, solar gates need at least five hours of sun exposure to properly function and charge.
Another thing to consider is the maintenance. Yes, you can save on electrical costs, but the solar panels need to be cleaned, maintained, and positioned properly. These things can sometimes be too demanding for some people.
Solar power also relies on the weather. Living in an area with minimal sun or where it rains frequently means that a solar automatic gate opener isn’t an option for you.
Benefits of a Solar Automatic Gate Opener
Solar gates are the craze. They have a grand appeal that many environment-conscious property owners love.
Choosing the right solar automatic gate opener from a legit supplier like All Security Equipment guarantees reliable and genuine products! Browse and shop our wide range of items. We have everything about property access and security.
Our friendly and knowledgeable customer representative is always ready to serve. Contact us now!
