A gate that won't open is more than an inconvenience; it's a security problem. Most gate motor faults come down to a handful of causes, several of which you can check yourself.
First: open the gate manually if you need to
Every gate motor has a manual release (usually a key and a lever on the motor). Use it to free the gate so you can open it by hand. Close and lock it again afterwards, and keep the key somewhere you can find it during a power cut.
Common causes
| Symptom | Likely cause |
|---|---|
| Works on mains power but not during load-shedding or a power cut | Battery is old or flat. Gate motor batteries typically last two to three years. |
| Nothing happens at all, no beeps or lights | No power to the motor: tripped breaker, a blown fuse in the motor, or a failed charger or transformer |
| Motor runs but the gate doesn't move | Manual release left open, or worn gears |
| Gate starts, stops and reverses | Obstruction on the track, or the safety beams are blocked or dirty |
| Works from the remote in your hand at the motor, but not from the car | Remote battery flat, or the receiver range is reduced |
| Gate opens on its own or stops working after a storm | Lightning or surge damage to the control board |
Safe checks you can do
- Check the DB board for a tripped breaker on the gate circuit. See power off in only part of the house.
- Clear the track: stones, sand and leaves on a sliding gate track are a very common cause.
- Clean the safety beams (the small sensors on either side of the opening) and make sure nothing blocks them.
- Replace the remote battery.
- Check the manual release is fully engaged.
Don't open the motor's control box or work on the 220 V supply yourself.
When to call someone
- Gate motor technician: for batteries, remotes, gears, control boards and motor replacement.
- Electrician: for a new or faulty power supply to the gate, a circuit that keeps tripping, or surge protection. See lightning and surge protection.
For urgent electrical faults, compare emergency electricians in Benoni, or see electrician prices in Benoni.