Gate operator cycle ratings tell you how much use an operator can handle. Understanding these specs helps match the operator to your needs.
What Cycle Ratings Mean
Basic Terms
- Cycle: One complete open + close
- Duty cycle: Operations per hour/day
- Continuous duty: Can run constantly
- Intermittent: Needs rest between cycles
Typical Ratings
- Light residential: 20-30 cycles/day
- Active residential: 50+ cycles/day
- Commercial: 100-300 cycles/day
- High-traffic: Continuous duty
Matching to Your Use
Calculate Your Usage
- How many vehicles per day?
- Each vehicle = 2 cycles (in + out)
- Add guests, deliveries, service
- Plan for growth
Examples
- Single family home: 10-20 cycles/day
- Active household: 30-50 cycles/day
- Small apartment: 50-100 cycles/day
- Commercial parking: 200+ cycles/day
Consequences of Underrating
What Happens
- Motor overheating
- Thermal cutouts
- Premature wear
- Shorter lifespan
Commercial Considerations
High-Traffic Features
- Continuous duty motors
- Better cooling systems
- Heavier components
- Higher duty cycles
Right-Sized Operators
Standard Gate Co matches operators to your actual usage. Call (323) 488-GATE for proper sizing.