Can bright sunlight affect photocell performance?

How photocells work in automated gates

Let’s start with the basics. Photocells operate using infrared beams sent between a transmitter and a receiver. The transmitter sends out the invisible infrared beam, and the receiver registers it on the opposite side. As long as the beam isn’t interrupted, the system knows that the gate’s path is clear. If anything crosses the beam on the other hand, the photocell tells the control board to stop the gate or reverse its movement.

This mechanism is employed every time your automated gate opens or closes, and without properly functioning photocells, there’s a risk of gates closing when they shouldn’t – which can not only damage your property, but potentially even put lives in danger. As we’ve briefly covered above, the technology is built to handle regular exposure to outdoor conditions, but issues can arise when environmental elements, like strong sunlight, interact with the infrared beam that photocells depend on.

Why can bright sunlight affect photocell sensors?

Bright sunlight can create interference for photocells because it contains infrared light, which by the way is the same type of light that photocells use to communicate. If the sun shines directly onto the receiver, it can overwhelm the sensor and cause it to misinterpret signals. In some cases, the receiver may think the beam is constantly being broken. This could stop the gate from closing properly, leaving it stuck open, or cause delays in operation that affect your access and security.

It’s also possible for sunlight to cause false readings that lead to gates behaving unpredictably. For example, you may notice the gate refusing to shut even though the path is clear, or reversing for no obvious reason. Both instances are annoying enough on their own, but even more importantly, they compromise the safety feature that photocells are designed to provide. Sunlight interference isn’t guaranteed in every installation, but when it does occur it’s usually down to the angle of the sun at specific times of day, combined with the photocell’s position.

3 steps you can take to minimise sunlight interference

When you want to reduce the impact of sunlight on your photocells, there are a few straightforward steps that help.

• Position photocells carefully during installation
• Fit hoods or shades over the receivers
• Reduce reflections from nearby surfaces

Positioning is the first and most important factor. If receivers are placed where they directly face the rising or setting sun, there’s a slightly stronger chance of sunlight interference. Happily, it’s a relatively easy fix – it’s just a matter of adjusting their angle slightly during installation, to make sure the receiver can pick up the infrared beam without disruption. Even a small change in placement can eliminate unnecessary faults and keep your gate operating as it should.

Shields are the next line of defence. Purpose-built hoods or covers are designed to block out direct sunlight while still enabling the infrared beam to pass through clearly. When installed correctly, these covers give the receiver extra protection and help it maintain accuracy even in the brightest conditions. They’re an inexpensive but highly effective way of extending photocell reliability.

Reflections from shiny surfaces like metal gates, glass panels, or polished driveways can often cause as many issues as direct sunlight. If light bounces into the receiver, it may mimic the effect of an obstruction. A good way to reduce this interference is by identifying and adjusting reflective surfaces near your gate, whether through repositioning or by applying a matte finish.

4 maintenance practices to keep photocells reliable

As you might imagine, regular care is hugely important to make sure your photocells continue to work properly over time. Here’s what we’d suggest:

• Keep photocell lenses clean
• Test the sensors routinely
• Check alignment regularly
• Inspect wiring and connections

Regular maintenance is a fairly obvious one – your first task is to keep the lenses clean. Dirt, dust, or spider webs can all reduce sensitivity, potentially making sensors more vulnerable to sunlight interference. A gentle wipe with a soft cloth now and then can help prevent this problem.

The second most important thing is to test the photocells routinely. Walk through the gate path when it’s closing to check if the sensors respond as they should. If you notice inconsistent behaviour, that can help you to identify an issue before it becomes a bigger problem. The third practice is to check alignment. Over time, vibrations from gate movement or weather conditions can cause photocells to drift out of position. Misaligned sensors may fail to communicate, and correcting their angle is often a straightforward fix. Finally, make a point to regularly inspect wiring and connections. Corrosion or wear in the electrical connections can disrupt performance, so promptly replacing damaged components can go a long way to helping keep your system reliable.

The photocells in our own gate automation kits here at Gate Auto are used primarily for safety purposes. To create fast and button less exit options, a vehicle detection ground loop can be installed under your driveway. For anyone trying to get in an out of the property without a vehicle, you can always install separate pedestrian entrances, or push-to-exit buttons. These ensure that you can enter and exit your premises at will, but without compromising any of the safety or security aspects of your automated gates.

Here at Gate Auto, we have over 30 years in supplying and fitting high-quality gate automation, we provide a wide range of electric gate kits including swing gate kits and cantilever gate kits as well as 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!