Don't Let an Auckland Winter Jam Your Gates: A Guide to Winter-Proofing Your Automated Entry

As any Aucklander knows, winter doesn't mean snowdrifts and ice storms. It means persistent rain, high humidity, gusty winds, and a general dampness that can seep into everything. While your automated gate is built to be tough, these specific conditions can pose unique challenges to its delicate electronic and mechanical parts.

Don't wait for a breakdown on a rainy morning! ⛈️ Here are our essential tips for keeping your automated gate running smoothly through the wet Auckland winter.

1. Focus on Drainage, Drainage, Drainage (automated gate)

If there’s one thing Auckland winter guarantees, it's rain. Water pooling around your gate tracks or, even worse, your gate motor, is a recipe for disaster.

• Clear Debris: Regularly sweep leaves, dirt, and other debris from gate tracks and the area around the motor housing. Clogged tracks force the motor to work harder and can cause the gate to jam.

• Check Your Drains: Ensure any nearby drains are clear and functioning. If water consistently pools around your gate system after rain, you may need to consider improving the ground-level drainage to channel water away. A flooded motor is an expensive fix!

2. Battle the Damp: Lubricate and Protect

Humidity is the silent enemy of mechanical parts, leading to rust and stiffness.

• Lubricate Moving Parts: Hinges, chains, and wheels need regular lubrication to repel water and prevent corrosion. Use a high-quality, silicone-based or marine-grade spray lubricant, as these are designed to work well in wet, coastal environments. This will keep movement smooth and reduce strain on the motor.

• Wipe Down Surfaces: Give the gate and its components a quick wipe-down with a dry cloth after heavy rain, paying special attention to the motor casing and manual release levers.

3. Keep a Clear Line of Sight for Sensors

Your gate's safety photo-sensors are its eyes. If they can't "see" each other, your gate will refuse to close.

• Clean the Lenses: Rain, mist, and dirt can easily obscure sensor lenses. Gently wipe them with a soft, clean cloth.

• Check for Pests: Spiders love the sheltered corners of gate sensors and control boxes. Their webs can be enough to trigger the safety beams. Regularly clear away any webs you find. 🕷️

4. Protect the Brains: Inspect the Control Box

The control box houses the circuit board—the brain of your gate system. Moisture is its worst enemy.

• Check the Seals: Ensure the weatherproof seal on your control box is intact and that the cover is securely closed. If the seal is cracked or perished, it needs to be replaced.

• Look for Intruders: Open the box carefully and check for signs of moisture, insects, or geckos who may have sought shelter inside. These can cause short circuits and board failure.

5. Listen to Your Gate

You use your gate every day, so you're the first to know when something sounds "off."

• Listen for New Noises: Are there any new grinding, squeaking, or straining sounds? This often indicates that a component needs lubrication or that the motor is working too hard due to an obstruction. Addressing these sounds early can prevent a major failure.

Schedule a Professional Check-Up with Gatematech Ltd

The best way to ensure peace of mind is to have an expert service your gate. For a comprehensive inspection and tune-up, consult Gatematech Ltd. Their experienced technicians understand the unique challenges of Auckland's climate. They can perform a thorough inspection, test electrical components, check motor torque, and adjust all settings to keep your gate performing flawlessly.

You can reach them at:

Phone: 027 568 6301

Email: admin@gatematech.co.nz

Website: www.gatematech.co.nz

By following these tips, your automated gate will remain a reliable asset all winter long. For expert servicing and peace of mind, don't hesitate to contact Gatematech Ltd. They'll ensure your gate is ready for whatever the Auckland weather throws at it. Stay dry and stay secure! 🏡