My Electric Gate Has Stopped Working, What Should I Do?
There are few things more frustrating than an electric gate that won't open, especially when you're sitting in your car, late for something, staring at a gate that isn't moving.
The good news is that the most common causes of electric gate failure are straightforward, and some can be resolved without calling anyone out. Here's how to troubleshoot the problem and work out whether it's a quick fix or something that needs a professional.
Start With the Obvious
Before assuming the worst, work through these basics:
Is there a power cut? Check whether other electrical items in your property are working. If there's a power cut, your gate won't operate, but all good automation systems include a manual release so you can open the gate by hand. Check your system's manual for how to do this, or call us and we'll talk you through it.
Is the remote battery flat? It sounds simple, but a flat battery in the remote handset is one of the most common reasons a gate appears to have stopped working. Try a fresh battery before anything else.
Is the keypad or intercom working? If the remote isn't responding but the keypad or intercom still works, the issue is likely with the remote itself rather than the gate system.
Have you recently had a power surge? Lightning strikes or power surges can trip the control board. Check whether the control board has a reset button, and try resetting it.
Common Causes of Electric Gate Failure
Motor or actuator fault The motor is the most mechanically demanding component of the system, and over time wear and tear can cause it to fail or underperform. Symptoms include slow or jerky movement, unusual noises, or the gate stalling partway through its travel. This usually requires a professional diagnosis.
Control board fault The control board is the brain of the automation system, and a fault here can cause a range of unpredictable behaviour, the gate not responding at all, responding intermittently, or reversing unexpectedly. Control board faults can be caused by power surges, moisture ingress or simply age.
Safety sensor fault All automated gates have safety sensors that stop and reverse the gate if an obstruction is detected. If a sensor becomes misaligned, dirty or faulty, the gate may behave as though there's always an obstruction present, refusing to close, reversing mid-cycle, or not moving at all. This is one of the most common causes of gate faults and is usually straightforward to fix.
Mechanical issue Hinges, pivot points and rollers can seize, corrode or wear over time, particularly if the gate hasn't been regularly maintained. A gate that's physically difficult to move will put excessive strain on the motor and may cause it to cut out.
Wiring fault Damaged, corroded or loose wiring can cause intermittent or complete loss of function. This is particularly common on older installations or where the cable has been damaged by ground movement or garden machinery.
Battery backup failure If your system has a battery backup, the battery has a limited lifespan and will eventually need replacing. A failing battery can cause erratic behaviour even when the mains supply is fine.
Composite sliding gate installed in Wiltshire
When to Call a Professional
If working through the basics above hasn't resolved the issue, it's time to call a gate engineer. You should also call immediately if:
The gate is stuck in a position that blocks vehicle access or presents a safety risk
The gate is moving unpredictably or closing on vehicles or people
You can hear the motor running but the gate isn't moving
There are visible signs of damage to wiring, hinges or structural components
Don't attempt to force a gate open or closed if there's a mechanical fault, you risk causing further damage to the gate, the automation system or the posts.
The Best Way to Avoid Gate Failures
Regular annual servicing is the most effective way to prevent unexpected gate failures. A service visit covers lubrication of all moving parts, testing of safety devices and sensors, inspection of the motor and control board, and a written report on the condition of the system. Issues caught early during a service are almost always cheaper to fix than faults that are left to develop into full failures.
If you haven't had your gate serviced recently, or if you've moved into a property with an existing gate and don't know its service history, it's worth booking a visit sooner rather than later.
We Cover Wiltshire and the Surrounding Counties
The White Horse Gate Company provides electric gate repairs and servicing across Wiltshire, Berkshire, Oxfordshire, Hampshire, Somerset, Gloucestershire and Dorset. If your gate has stopped working, get in touch and we'll arrange a callout as quickly as possible.
