Like any mechanical system, automated gates need regular maintenance to perform reliably. A little preventive care goes a long way toward avoiding breakdowns and expensive repairs.
Monthly Maintenance Tasks
Visual Inspection
Walk around your gate and look for:
- Loose or damaged hardware
- Signs of rust or corrosion
- Debris in the gate path
- Vegetation growing into the gate area
Safety Test
Test your safety devices monthly:
- Block the photo eye beam during gate operation - gate should stop
- Place a soft object in the gate path - gate should reverse on contact
- Ensure warning signs are visible and legible
Clean Photo Eyes
Wipe photo eye lenses with a soft cloth to ensure clear detection.
Quarterly Maintenance
Lubrication
Apply lubricant to:
- Gate hinges (swing gates)
- Roller wheels and track (slide gates)
- Chain drives (where applicable)
Use a dry lubricant or white lithium grease - avoid WD-40 as it attracts dirt.
Hardware Check
Tighten any loose bolts, screws, and brackets. Check hinge pins for wear.
Annual Professional Service
Have a professional technician perform annual maintenance including:
- Complete system inspection
- Operator adjustment and calibration
- Electrical connection check
- Safety device testing and certification
- Battery backup test (if equipped)
- Access control system review
Signs You Need Service
Call for service if you notice:
- Unusual noises during operation
- Gate moving slower than normal
- Gate not closing completely
- Intermittent operation
- Error codes or flashing lights
Standard Gate Co provides maintenance services and annual service agreements for gate systems throughout Los Angeles. Call (323) 488-GATE to schedule service.