What to Look for in a Driveway Gate Automation System

Learn about the features offered by residential driveway gate openers

A driveway gate adds a sense of privacy and exclusivity to your property. Many homeowners choose gates for their aesthetic appeal and may not even bother to use them on a regular basis. However, when you choose the right gate and opener system, using your driveway gate becomes as easy as using a garage door and you can begin to reap the security benefits of having a gate. Here are some of the most important features to consider when looking for the right driveway gate automation system for your home.

Gate Motion

Most residential driveway gates are designed to swing open or slide open. If you already have a gate in place, you’ll obviously need to choose an opener system that is compatible with your gate’s range of motion. Both types of gate automation systems come packed with great features to make your life more convenient and your property more secure.

Opening Power

Your driveway gate automation system has to have enough power and torque to actually move your gate. You’ll need to consider the weight of your gate as well as the volume of open-close cycles it will be expected to handle each day. Typically, the biggest residential gate automation systems can handle gates up to 32 feet long weighing up to 1,000 pounds.

System Power

Most driveway gate automation systems operate on DC power with a battery backup. Make sure that the battery backup is robust enough to handle your needs. If you are concerned about your carbon footprint, you may also want to consider a gate opener that either comes with solar panels or can easily be converted to solar power.

Dynamic Braking

The heavier your gate is, the more important it is to have dynamic braking for total gate position control throughout the open and close motion. This prevents the gate from coasting and potentially swinging too quickly or banging shut at the end of the cycle.

Safety & Security Features

All quality driveway gate openers come with reversing sensors that enable them to stop moving when an obstruction like a vehicle or a person is detected in their path. Some models offer additional safety and security features, such as anti-tailgating sensors, powerful magnetic locks to hold the gate shut, and the ability to interface with your home security system and set off an alarm in case of a breach or tampering.

Fire Code Compliance

You will definitely want to make sure your driveway gate opener is in compliance with any local fire codes. For example, you may need a gate that will open automatically in the event of an extended power outage or that allows for manual operation in an emergency.