Electric gates have become popular and their use is no longer a preserve of the rich. They are found even in modest homes with their use is borne out of the need for convenience, and their relative affordability. On deciding to install an electric gate, some considerations should be made. One is whether an existing gate will be used, or a new one will be fitted. The other is to establish whether the electric mechanism will be operated by a manual switch, or a photo sensor. Other factors are to do with whether the gate will be a swinging or a sliding type, and if it is to be one, two, or more pieces. The required materials and equipment will be known from these considerations, and should be procured. These will include; electric motor, electric cables, conduits, switches, and sensors.

The first step will be either installation – if it’s a new gate – or servicing in the case of an older gate. This ensures that the gate moves freely with no obstruction, as electric mechanism work best with smoothly operating gates. After this, the motor mechanism is installed. This could be designed to use gears, belts and pulleys, or levers and arms. Free movement and non-obtrusiveness of all moving parts should be confirmed before proceeding.

The next step involves installation of the electric cables. Depending on where the nearest power point is located, conduits may be required, and should be fitted in. The type of conduit used will depend on the kind of surface in which it will be fitted. This information can be obtained from the hardware store where these materials are bought.

The sensors and switches should now be installed to complete the system. Photo sensors should be placed such that the infrared beam they produce cuts across the path leading up to the gate from inside and outside. When a vehicle cuts this beam, the gate opens. A switch can be mounted on the wall outside the gate where a driver can access it while seated in the car. Switches can be ordinary, locked in a box, or operated by key or remote control. The choice will depend on one’s requirements.

Installation of all the gadgets is followed by calibration of every single component in the system. This is necessitated by the fact that each one comes with a standard factory setting. It is therefore imperative that the system is customised for individual’s use. The most important setting is distance of travel by the gate. It should stop at the right spot during both opening and closing. Stoppers can be fitted in addition to the sensors.

If you are a little unsure about any aspect of the installation process then you would be advised to seek the services of a specialist supplier. There is no need to look in your Yellow Pages as a simple internet search will reveal a list of local electric gate installation companies. Take a bit of time to ring round a few potential suppliers before deciding on whose services will be the most cost effective.

Edward Kendricks writes for CTS (www.cts-networks.co.uk), a leading UK electric gate installation company.

Edward Kendricks writes for CTS (http://www.cts-networks.co.uk), a leading UK electric gate installation company.

Author Bio: Edward Kendricks writes for CTS (www.cts-networks.co.uk), a leading UK electric gate installation company.

Category: Advice
Keywords: electric gates, security, home improvement, DIY, CCTV, burglar, crime, safety