Parking lots serve several hundreds – if not thousands – of vehicles daily. This heavy traffic requires exemplary access control for security parking. So, a parking lot gate should always work properly, and malfunctions should be avoided.
Unfortunately, parking lot gates are not immune to problems and issues. When troubles arise, security and access are compromised, leading to unauthorized entry.
Since the gate operator and change machines are two indispensable parts of the gate system for parking applications, we will dig deeper into how to solve issues stemming from them.
Common Problems of Parking Lot Gates
Troubles arising from the gate operator or change machine may deem the security gate inaccessible. That is why these problems should be dealt with immediately.
Gate Operator
Operators for automatic gates and parking arms come in diverse brands and models. Each brand and model may have different ways to fix issues. In general, here are the common problems parking lots face with their entry gates and how to solve them:
Sensors Not Working
An important component of any automatic gate is its sensors. When sensors malfunction, the gate won’t function well, and access is inhibited.
A parking lot barrier gate also has sensors that determine the presence of a vehicle. Most often, these sensors malfunction due to faulty wiring, dirty sensor lenses, or because something is blocking their sensing capabilities.
Check the sensors and determine what the problem is. Remove any blockage and clean the lenses. If the problem stems from damaged wires, replace them with the help of professionals.
Boom Barrier Gates Not Falling
The most commonly used type of parking lot gate is the boom barrier. The barrier gate arm is a long horizontal arm that prevents vehicles from passing through.
When access is granted, the barrier arm lifts upward to allow the vehicle to pass. It goes back to its original position once the vehicle safely passes through. But once it gets stuck and won’t come down, there might be a problem with the barrier’s main board.
To troubleshoot this issue, refer to the manual specifically made for the specific model of the barrier gate operator.
Gate Not Open/Open Completely
Barrier gates may not open completely or open at all. When this happens, there can be a problem with the power supply, or the sensors could be blocked.
For blocked sensors, simply remove the obstruction so that entry won’t be hampered.
For a parking lot gate not receiving any power, simply replace the battery or make sure that it didn’t come unplugged from the electrical outlet.
If there is power and the motor operator runs just fine, the gearbox or other parts of the gate might have problems. Determining where the problem is can be difficult for the unversed. So, contacting a qualified technician to do the fix is the best option.
Gate Does Not Close/Close Completely
A parking gate that does not close jeopardizes the safety of parking lots. Though there can be many reasons why this happens, one possibility is that the motor is overworked. Overworked motors need a replacement for entry gates to function properly.
Another possible reason is an obstruction. Simply clean the sensors or remove anything that is stopping the gate from closing.
Resetting the gate operator can also help remedy the problem. Depending on the brand and model of the gate opener, resetting usually only requires pressing the RESET button located at the main operator.
Change Machine
Another crucial part of the control system in parking lots is the change machine. Traditional coin machines use technology that authenticates coin markers.
Here are common change machine problems and how to fix them.
Not Taking Coins
A parking facility with coin change machines may sometimes need to deal with payment issues when the machine starts to chuck out inserted coins. The problem may be solved – albeit temporarily – when a different coin is inserted.
Some common reasons why the machine doesn’t take coins are outdated mechanisms, worn-out parts, blockage or low change.
Older machines may not accept newly minted coins with updated markings. The only way to solve this is to update the coin mechanism so that new coins will be accepted.
Worn-out and old parts need replacing for the machine to function properly as well. But sometimes, dirt and other debris are the culprits. Taking the parts out, disassembling them, and cleaning them before putting them back together may improve their function.
When coins are running low for change, simply refill the mechanism.
Jammed Coin
A coin jammed within the mechanism causes it to malfunction and not accept any other payments. To solve the problem, open the machine and check if a coin is blocking the way. Remove the obstruction and see if it works. If the jam persists, replacing old parts can help resolve the issue.
Change Machines vs Digital Pay Stations
Change machines are somewhat outdated and seldom used nowadays. Most parking facilities now utilize digital pay stations.
Parking lots that use digital pay stations experience fewer problems than those using change machines. Digital pay stations provide better parking control through their upgraded mechanisms.
They also have better features that are useful in many parking applications. Digital pay stations like the ones developed by SysParc can be added to the gate system.
The Express Exit Pay Station, for example, is placed near the exit gate of the parking facility. It accurately collects the parking fee through a credit card upon the vehicle’s exit.
Upon successful payment, a signal will be sent to the gate operator to lift the arm barrier so that the car can safely pass through. If you want to combine cash and credit card payments, SysParc Pay Parking Station (Model PS-2020) is a viable option.
This particular SysParc product collects payment through cash or credit card. This is a multi-operational system that offers more convenience to drivers since they have the option to choose their payment method.
Enhance Parking Experience With All Security Equipment
The traffic flow within the parking area shouldn’t be hampered by congestion. However, this can happen when vehicles start to line up in front of the parking gate, unable to pass through due to a faulty parking gate control system.
Since the entrance and exit hold extreme importance as much as the security fence, a malfunctioning parking lot gate and coin change machine should be repaired immediately.
Replacement parts, equipment and parking systems are available at All Security Equipment. We are a top seller of security equipment for gates and access controls. We carry the best brands to ensure authenticity and reliable equipment and materials.
Check our online catalog for things that you need. Or, contact our customer service for support.
