4 potential electric gate problems to watch out for in autumn

Ah, autumn. That time again, when the golden warmth from the leaves and trees begins to contrast with the cooling in the air. It’s no wonder that it’s such a favourite season for so many people. However, it can occasionally present a couple of issues for your electric gate kits. Thankfully though, they’re not too difficult to sort with the right preparation, and as long as you know what you’re looking for.

With more than 30 years of experience behind us here at Gate Auto, we’re committed to saving you time and energy when it comes to your electric gates – so in that spirit, here are four of the most common issues to watch out for.

electric gate in autumn

Falling leaves blocking tracks and sensors

Autumn is most strongly associated with falling leaves, and while it makes for a lovely painting or photograph, they can become a pain when they accumulate quickly, particularly around your electric gate. If leaves become lodged in the gate’s tracks or block the sensors, they can prevent the gate from opening or closing properly.

Now, this is unlikely to damage your gate on its own, but the sensors are there to stop the gates from closing on something vulnerable, so if they’re being blocked by something as small as fallen leaves, it can sometimes take a fair amount of time to work out why your gates aren’t closing properly. If you find yourself in this sort of scenario, check all your sensors first!

It’s a good idea to regularly inspect the gate area to prevent that problem from occurring in the first place, clearing away leaves and debris. In fact, it may be helpful to schedule a monthly clean-up during the autumn months, especially during peak leaf-falling times. Also, you might want to consider installing protective covers or screens around the gate to reduce leaf accumulation and protect the sensors.

Increased dirt and debris accumulation

As well as falling leaves, autumn can bring an uptick in other types of dirt and debris. Wind can carry dust, dirt, and small particles, which may accumulate around the gate’s mechanism and in the track. Over time, this build-up can cause the gate to operate less smoothly or even jam entirely. This accumulated dirt can also have a more gradual effect, leading to increased wear and tear on the gate’s components, which leads to more frequent maintenance or repairs.

We’ve mentioned it above, but it bears repeating – it’s never a bad idea to implement a regular cleaning routine. Use a soft brush or vacuum to remove dirt and debris from the gate’s surface and tracks. Don’t forget to inspect the surrounding area too, as any debris nearby can easily find its way into the gate’s mechanism.

High winds

Autumn is also notorious for high winds, which can sometimes pose a risk to your electric gate. Particularly strong gusts can cause the gate to sway or rattle, putting stress on its hinges and motor. In some cases, extreme winds can even lead to the gate being blown off its tracks or damaged. This risk is especially prevalent in areas prone to high winds or storms, but it’s a thankfully rare occurrence.

Still, to minimise the risk of damage from these sorts of high winds, make sure to check that all components, such as hinges and motors, are securely fastened and in good working order. It’s also a good plan to check the gate’s alignment regularly, to that ensure it’s properly positioned and less susceptible to wind-related issues.

Seizing parts

As temperatures fluctuate during autumn, the changing weather can impact the functioning of your electric gate. Components like hinges, motors, and sensors can sometimes become stiff or seize up due to moisture, temperature changes, or a lack of lubrication. This seizing can prevent the gate from operating smoothly and may lead to more significant mechanical issues if left unaddressed.

Thankfully, a good maintenance routine can go a long way to preventing these sorts of issues from occurring. A key part of that maintenance routine includes lubricating all moving parts and ensuring that any electrical components are protected from moisture. Regularly inspecting your gate for signs of wear or rust can also help you catch potential issues early, preventing more extensive damage.

Those are just a couple of our ideas – if you ever need more detailed help or advice, We’re here to help! With over 30 years in supplying and fitting high-quality gate automation here at Gate Auto, we provide a wide range of electric gate kits and garage door openers alongside an array of accessories to ensure you get the most out of your investment. Feel free to browse them right here on our site, or give us a call on 01282 677300!