Your electric gate opens and closes hundreds of times a month, in rain, wind, frost, and summer heat. Without regular maintenance, small issues quietly turn into expensive breakdowns — and they always seem to happen when you’re in a hurry.
Here’s what a proper maintenance routine looks like and why it’s worth every penny.
What Does a Gate Service Include?
A professional service isn’t just a quick look and a squirt of oil. A proper annual service covers:
- Motor inspection — Testing the motor for wear, checking power draw, and listening for unusual noise. A motor that’s starting to struggle will show up in the readings.
- Safety device testing — Every safety edge, photocell, and obstacle detection system is tested to make sure it triggers correctly. This isn’t optional — it keeps your gate legal and safe.
- Mechanical check — Hinges, tracks, rollers, and drive gears are inspected for wear and properly lubricated. Dry hinges are the number one cause of premature motor failure.
- Control panel check — All wiring connections are tightened, the battery backup is tested, and the control board is inspected for signs of moisture or corrosion.
- Limit switch adjustment — Over time, limit switches can drift. If your gate doesn’t quite close fully or over-runs slightly, this is usually why.
- Remote control testing — All remotes are tested and batteries checked. We’ll re-pair any that have lost programming.
How Often Should You Service Your Gate?
Once a year is the minimum. For commercial properties or gates that get heavy daily use — think apartment blocks, car parks, business premises — twice a year is better.
The best time to book? Early autumn. That way your gate goes into winter in peak condition, when cold weather and wet conditions put the most strain on the system.
Winter Gate Care — Five Things to Watch
Winter is particularly hard on electric gates. Here’s what to pay attention to:
- Frozen ground — Swing gates can catch on raised ground caused by frost heave. If your gate suddenly scrapes in winter, this is likely the cause.
- Track debris — Sliding gate tracks fill with leaves, mud, and ice. Keep the track clear — a blocked track can burn out a motor.
- Condensation in control panels — Temperature swings create moisture inside the control box. A service includes checking seals and, if needed, adding a small heater element.
- Battery backup — Cold weather reduces battery performance. If your gate has a battery backup for power cuts, test it before winter hits.
- Gate seal and paint — Check for any cracked paint or rust spots. Winter moisture will get in and accelerate corrosion.
What Does a Service Cost?
A standard annual service typically costs between £120 and £200 plus VAT, depending on the system. Parts needed beyond routine adjustments are quoted separately and only fitted with your approval.
Compare that to £500–£1,500 for a motor replacement, or £2,500+ for a full control panel rebuild, and a service starts to look like very cheap insurance.
Keep Your Warranty Valid
Most gate automation warranties require proof of annual servicing. Skip the service, and you could find yourself paying for a repair that would have been covered. It’s one of the first things manufacturers ask for when a warranty claim is made.
Book a Service
If it’s been more than a year since your gate was last serviced — or you can’t remember when it was — get in touch to book. We cover Essex, Suffolk, and Norfolk. Call 01473 375112 or use our online form.