How Often Should Your Electric Gate Be Serviced?

A Homeowner’s Guide

Electric gates are a fantastic investment—offering convenience, security, and a safer, more controlled entrance to your property. But like any mechanical system, they need regular maintenance to stay reliable and safe.

So, how often should your electric gate be serviced? Most experts recommend at least one professional service every 12 months, but depending on usage and environment, some gates require more frequent check-ups.

Let’s break it down.

Recommended Service Frequency

Residential Electric Gates

• Once per year is typically enough.

• If your gate is used multiple times daily, consider every 6 months.

Commercial, Industrial or High-Traffic Gates

• Should be serviced every 3–6 months.

• Frequent operation leads to quicker motor wear and more stress on moving parts.

Gates in Harsh Environments

You may need additional servicing if your gate is exposed to:

• Coastal air (salt corrosion)

• Heavy rain and flooding

• Extreme cold or snow

• Dusty or muddy locations

Harsh conditions accelerate wear on motors, hinges, electronics and safety devices.

Why Regular Servicing Matters

1. Safety Compliance

In the UK and EU, automated gates must meet BS/EN safety standards. Annual servicing ensures your gate remains compliant and safe to use—protecting you from legal issues.

2. Prevents Breakdowns

A routine service can identify early signs of motor strain, worn parts, or electrical issues before they cause a total failure.

3. Saves Money Long-Term

Fixing small issues early stops them turning into bigger, more expensive problems—especially with motors and control boards.

4. Increases Gate Lifespan

Well-maintained gates and motors can last over a decade. Neglected ones may fail in just a few years.

5. Ensures Smooth, Reliable Operation

A properly serviced gate opens faster, smoother, and with less strain on components.

What’s Included in a Professional Gate Service?

A thorough electric gate service usually includes:

• Motor & gearbox checks

• Lubrication of hinges and moving parts

• Alignment checks for leaves or sliding tracks

• Cleaning or clearing debris from tracks/underground boxes

• Safety sensor and photocell testing

• Force testing (legal requirement)

• Inspection of control board & wiring

• Battery backup check (if fitted)

• Intercom & access control testing

• Structural checks (posts, welds, fixings)

A written report is normally provided for safety and insurance records.

Signs Your Gate Needs Servicing Sooner

Call a professional if you notice:

• Slower opening/closing

• Grinding, squeaking, or unusual noises

• Jerky or uneven movement

• Gate stops halfway

• Remote controls becoming unreliable

• The gate doesn’t detect obstacles

• Increased resistance or heavy movement manually

• Intercom or keypad failures

These signs often indicate early mechanical or electrical faults.

Can You Service an Electric Gate Yourself?

You can perform small checks like:

• Keeping the area clean

• Checking for debris in tracks

• Wiping sensors

• Lubricating (if advised by your installer)

But the electrical and safety components must be checked by a trained technician.

A DIY mistake can cause serious hazards or void warranties and insurance.

Conclusion: Service Your Gate Every 6–12 Months

For most homeowners, an annual service keeps gates safe, compliant and problem-free. For commercial sites or high-use gates, aim for every 3–6 months.

Regular servicing is the simplest way to avoid breakdowns, extend the life of your system and keep your property secure.