4 Spring Cleaning and Maintenance Tips for Your Automatic Gate System
Spring cleaning involves a long list of things that should be taken care of. Because of this, many people forget the maintenance of their automatic gate systems. This is one of those things that should be on your spring cleaning checklist because just like your home and vehicles, automatic gate systems also require proper maintenance and upkeep in order to work efficiently.
Following are 4 spring cleaning and maintenance tips for your automatic gate system:
1. Visual Inspection
Check your gate’s condition and identify inefficiencies and failure. Generally, automatic gates do not fail very quickly and if there are any issues, they can be traced to slow degradation. Examine the main body of the gate for tears, dents, and other forms of damage. If it is a sliding gate, then make sure that the chain drive or belt is in good condition. Clear the tracks on which the gate moves. Furthermore, inspect the electrical connections and the gate opener as well as the bushings and bearings. If there are any anomalies, then it is recommended that you consult a professional for troubleshooting.
2. Cleaning
Clean your automatic gate in order to get rid of all the accumulated dust and dirt. If your gate is metal, then you can easily wash it with water, a soft sponge, and mild soap. These products are sufficient to get rid of any type of grime that accumulates due to exposure to harsh weather and environmental conditions. When you are wiping the gate, look for any signs of rust and if you find them, then clean off the affected area by scrubbing it gently. After you have cleaned your automatic gate, rinse off the soap deposits and then let the surfaces dry. After that, apply protective wax. By doing this, you will minimize the chances of rusting. If your automatic gate is made of wood, then it is recommended that you repaint it.
3. Lubrication
Lubrication is an essential part of automatic gate maintenance. Friction can damage the moving parts of the gate that control the automatic operations. The gate will move with difficulty if the surfaces are completely dry. The internal components will also grind roughly. This entire process can lead to the premature failure of essential parts of the gate. That’s why it is very important to keep the automatic gate operation seamless and smooth. An appropriate lubricant will help you ensure that. Some of the components that require lubrication include screws, rollers, hinges, chains, and pulleys. Don’t use petroleum-based lubricants as they attract dust.
4. Pest Control
You might think that your automatic metal gate is safe from pests, but it isn’t. They can sabotage the operation and performance of automatic gates. Automatic gates consist of electronic parts that ensure their smooth operations and functioning but insects such as spiders, snails, and bees can damage such parts. Slugs and snails can damage the gate’s circuit boards. That’s why it is important to check for any pests in your automatic gate system. Call a professional pest control provider if you encounter the presence of any pests.
For top-notch automatic gates for your home or business, Superior Gate Services is the trusted local choice. To get ideas and to see some recent examples of our work, take a look at our gallery page. When you are looking for a new gate or any related equipment, we welcome you to either contact us through our website or call us at (855) 747-4283 and one of our friendly representatives will be glad to answer any questions you have.
