The modern world has devices that help in many different ways. An example of such a device is an automated gate opener. It is an excellent addition to any house with a large yard, but it does require some work for its installation. The process itself may look simple from far away, but you will see that it is not as easy as you would assume when you get closer. This topic is very beneficial for house owners.
With the new advances in technology, we can get more done in less time and avoid wasting energy of all kinds. So let’s get down to business and see how you can install an automatic gate opener yourself without hiring a professional installer and save some money on your new device that will make life easier.
Contents
- A Step By Step Guide To Automatic Gate Opener Installation
- Type of Automatic Gate Opener and which one you Should You Pick
- How Much Does an Automatic Gate Opener Cost?
- Can I Make My Gate Automatic?
- What is the Best Automatic Gate Opener?
- What to Consider When Buying an Automated Gate Opener?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
There are several things that you need to do before you start the process of installing an automatic gate opener:
- You need to decide what type of gate opener that you want.
- Where do you want it to be installed.
- Determine the power you need.
- Check on the kind of gate you have.
- Determine if you would like the gate to stay closed.
- Decide the main features that you want your automatic gate opener to have.
- Determine how high you would want the sensor to be.
- Check on the amount of power you need.
A Step By Step Guide To Automatic Gate Opener Installation
Now that you have all the information, it is time to put your knowledge into practice and install your new automatic gate opener.
The first procedure for installing an automated opener is to ensure that the device has its manual. Make sure you read it carefully because it has many guidelines for installing and troubleshooting your new appliance. Also, check any limitations on the type of gates used with this device (check for weight limits).
Once you’ve all finished, follow these 8 easy steps to install automatic gate opener, making sure that nothing is out of place or unaligned in any way.
- Test Automatic Opener
First, test your automatic opener. If there are any problems or things out of alignment, fix them before continuing!
- Prepare the Ground
Now, prepare the ground where you will be placing your automatic opener. Make sure to follow guidelines on how deep your holes should be and what type of rock you should use in them (if applicable).
- Mount the Mounting Brackets
After you are sure that it is stable, make preparations to mount the mounting brackets. Do this by matching them to one another and making sure they fit correctly on both sides of your gate before screwing them in place.
- Install Limit Switches
Install limit switches next: one on each side of your gate at about 5 feet high and secure with brackets and screws. Make sure to put them in the proper place (when your door is closed, it will hit the limit switch, which will activate your opener).
- Install Control Board
Attach control board and screw into brackets. Set aside wire box, junction box, power supply, etc., since you won’t be needing them yet! You can set this aside to make installation easier.
- Attach the Power Supply
Connect wiring from both sides of your gate to the “control board.” Use wire connectors, junction boxes, or whatever else comes with your device. If the wires are red and white, make sure that they are not crossed. Attach the power supply to the junction box if you still have it!
- Control Board + Power Supply
Now, wire your control board to the power supply and ensure everything is set in place before connecting it. Again, check if wires are crossed and pay special attention when connecting limit switch wires (one for closing and one for opening).
- Attach Transportation Wheels
Lastly, attach transportation wheels to the bottom of the motor and connect the energy source! You can choose whatever energy source you like, but make sure it does not exceed the maximum amperage that the device is rated for.
Now, open your motor up and check if everything works properly! If there are any problems with alignment or connections, call a professional to correct them.
You can also make sure that the device will work properly during rain or high temperatures by adding a heat sensor. This way, if your automatic opener overheats, you will be notified immediately and not when it is already too late!
And that’s it! Your automated gate opener works flawlessly.
Type of Automatic Gate Opener and which one you Should You Pick
There are three types of openers that are available for purchase. Each type is picked based on the specific needs of the homeowner.
1. Chain Drive Automatic Gate Opener
The chain drive mechanism is included in some types of swing gates, especially those made out of wood or wrought iron. Typical application includes residential, commercial, courtyard, farm & ranch. Easy DIY installation with commonly available tools, no extra welding, no high-voltage electrical connection. The most significant advantage of this device is that it is quiet and safe to use. The most crucial disadvantage is that it is expensive for most homeowners, costing around $300 per unit.
2. Screw Drive Automatic Gate Opener
This device is designed specifically for sliding gates and works on metal tracks attached to the center of each side of your entrance. When installed properly, this type of automatic opener is very durable and works well with any gate, including wood and wrought iron.
However, if your sliding gate has a lot of friction or weight, you may need additional help for this device to function correctly. Their popularity stems from their affordable price and simple installation.
3. Horse Drive Automatic Gate Opener
This type of opener uses the exact screw drive mechanism as the screw drive automatic gate opener, but it is designed to be installed on sliding gates. While this device works well for most residential openers, you should consider that it will not give your sliding gate much protection against corrosion or other weather-related damages.
Among the 3, the screw drives automatic gate opener is the most durable and works well for all sliding gates.
How Much Does an Automatic Gate Opener Cost?
The price of your automatic opener will depend on whether or not you want to DIY the installation or how much work you are willing to do. If you are more of a hands-on person, then it is likely that you can install your automatic gate opening device by reading the instructions provided with your purchase. However, if you feel that this job may be too challenging for you, it is recommended that you call an installer.
Can I Make My Gate Automatic?
The short answer — yes, but the installation process may be too complicated.
It depends on how much time and money you are willing to spend on this task. Suppose you want to hire someone to install your automatic opener, expect to pay $100 — $150/hour with a 2-hour minimum. If you are a do-it-yourselfer, be prepared to spend money on tools and equipment that may not be included with your purchase. A basic installation kit costs around $100-$200.
Consider purchasing a concrete assembly for around $20 per piece if you want to make your opener. These can be used to attach the opener to your gate frame.
What is the Best Automatic Gate Opener?
The best opener is determined by how much installation work you want to do and what type of gate will be installed. However, screw-drive automatic openers are typically more durable than other openers and can be used for various types. Be sure to check out our review: top 5 automatic gate opener. Call an installer if you don’t want to do any installation work or aren’t sure how well you will handle the job.
What to Consider When Buying an Automated Gate Opener?
When you are shopping around, there are several different features available to improve the look and function of your device. Among these options are ;
1. Lights
light is not only a good choice if you want to make your gate opener more visible, but it can also come in handy for providing enough illumination when you are carrying packages to your home after dark.
2. Remotes
They are often installed with multiple features that homeowners may find helpful. Among these is the remote. A remote will allow you to open and close your gate from a distance without approaching the device itself.
3. Keypads
some automatic openers come with keypads that can be used as an alternate way of entering the security code. This is useful for those who may not always want to use their remote but still have access to their gate.
4. Cameras
Are another great option if you want your device to come with an additional feature that can be used for security purposes. Cameras are also beneficial because they allow users to see their gate before they exit or approach it. This can provide convenience as well as safety, depending on what is most important for each consumer.
5. Solar Panel
Allows for powering your opener without having to use additional energy sources like electricity or batteries. This will help lower monthly bills while still giving you access to the features you in an automatic opener.
6. Timers
Timers are another helpful feature not included with all automatic gate openers but can be purchased as an additional accessory. Timers will allow your device to open your gate at set times during the day, so you don’t have to remember to do it!
7. Photocells/Infrared Beams
In addition to timers, photocells and infrared rays can also be set up with your automatic opener. These devices will open your gate as soon as they sense motion from a vehicle or person. This is an effective way to deter intruders from entering your property because it eliminates the need for a remote or code entry.
8. Energy Saver
Allows homeowners to save energy by only using the power they need. This function is especially useful during hot or cold weather when your gate will require more juice than usual.
9. Weather Sensor
This is another helpful feature that automatically closes the gate if it is too hot or cold outside.
10. Safety Reverse
safety reverse is great for both pets and children. The safety reverse will stop your door from closing if anything or anyone comes into contact with it, so you won’t accidentally smash something or someone!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
First, you need to decide on the type of gate opener that will best fit your needs. There are two basic options: swing and slide. Swing openers work by swinging out when there is no resistance in the way. Slide openers work with sliding back and forth similarly, but they can also go in an up-and-down motion, depending on the model.
Before starting anything, you need to find a good spot for your opener. You must find the right location not to block any other objects or get in the way of normal traffic flow. Once you decide on the site, make sure that it is leveled and secure. If necessary, make a hole in the ground, but avoid damaging any underground cables or pipes.
There are many options regarding this question. You can use a solar power system, plug into an existing electrical outlet, or connect your opener to existing low voltage systems.
Before installing any automatic opener, you need to know what type of gate it will be attached to. If the gate has horizontal bars, you will need a different opener than vertical bars. The next thing to decide is what kind of motor will fit best in your opener.
If you would like the gate to stay closed when there is no activity in your yard, make sure that you purchase the correct type of opener. If it does not close automatically and you do not want to activate it every time you walk through the gate, there is a solution: you can buy a remote control keychain that will activate your opener from anywhere in your yard.
This will help you narrow down your search and find a device that has all or at least most of what you need. It will also help in finding a device that has long-term durability and high quality.
For swing gates, they should be mounted on each side of the gate at about 5 feet. Also, you will need to buy an additional light sensor. For the slide gate, the sensors should be mounted at about 6 inches above the ground. Also, you will need to buy another sensor for this type that detects obstacles on the ground and prevents the gate from closing if it encounters any.
Make sure to find a device powered by solar panels or batteries because you do not want it to depend on an external energy source. With this information gathered and equipment bought, we can begin our project with ease and confidence!
As is the case with most electronic devices, an automatic gate opener may stop working correctly over time. To get the most out of the money you spend on your automatic opener, be sure to purchase one with all the features you desire.
Yes, automatic gate openers can help reduce crime by making your garage door opener and entry safer. It is recommended that you install outdoor lighting and a surveillance system to monitor the opener for this device to work correctly.
In conclusion, getting to know how to install the automating gate opener is important. I hope this article can help you establish your automating gate opener.
