FAQ
Think of the questions your customers ask most frequently and write them here along with the answers.
A: Usually the answer is yes. Gate operators are very susceptible to transient electrical surges that come from lighting storms, as well as a power surge that may occur to your electrical service. The gate, fence post and the operator itself usually are made of metal, all of which are conductors of electricity. At a minimum all electrical devices must be properly grounded. The ground provides a path of least resistance for an electrical charge that gets outside of the insulated wires and components to dissipate. The purpose is to prevent you from becoming that path if something should go wrong. We can help you determine the appropriate surge protection devices that may be needed for your installation.
Q: Why are gate operators so much more expensive than garage door openers?
A: Gate operators are much more sophisticated than garage door openers. They must survive unprotected from the elements. They must adapt to different types of gates. They are sold in much smaller quantities. They are time intensive to install and to service. They are larger, heavier, and more durable.
A: Gate Operator pricing is based upon the amount of work it is expected to do. The size and weight of the gate, the number of cycles it must perform per hour, the sophistication of the controller, and expected durability all affect the price. A similar example would be lawn mowers which also range in price from a couple of hundred to several thousand dollars. It is just harder to see the difference when comparing gate operators. See the next question for another reason