Maintenance Checklist for Year-Round Automated Gate Performance

Why Regular Maintenance Matters

Routine upkeep ensures smoother operation, enhances safety, and helps avoid costly repairs. It also protects your investment in durable, cold‑rated gate automation systems built by Art Metal. A few preventative checks each season can significantly extend the lifespan of your gate opener and accessories.

Monthly Homeowner Check

• Visual review: Scan for debris, rust, wear, or damage on hinges, rollers, and structural components.
• Test gate operation: Listen for unusual sounds—like grinding or squeaking—and look for jerky movements.
• Safety feature check: Ensure photo-eye sensors and edge safety devices are aligned and clear. Test by gently obstructing the gate path—it should stop or reverse promptly.

Quarterly Lubrication & Cleaning

• Clean and lubricate: Wipe away dust, old lubricant, or debris. Apply weather‑resistant lubricants (e.g., silicone‑based or white lithium grease) to hinges, rollers, tracks, and chains. Avoid using WD‑40 as a long‑term solution.
• Check hardware: Tighten all bolts, brackets, and fasteners that may loosen over time.
• Clean tracks and solar panels: Keep sliding tracks free of debris and wipe solar panels gently to maintain charging efficiency.

Seasonal (Spring / Fall / Early Winter)

Spring:

• Remove winter debris and inspect for rust or structural shifts caused by frost heave.evergreenelectricgates.com+1
• Realign if the gate sags or moves unevenly.Artmetal+15evergreenelectricgates.com+15fdc.com+15

Fall / Pre-Winter:

• Thoroughly clean debris from tracks and hinges—persistent moisture can lead to rust or freezing.fdc.com+11creativedoor.com+11evergreenelectricgates.com+11
• Re-lubricate moving parts to ensure smooth winter operation, and retire touch‑up paint to prevent surface degradation.heartlands.co.uk+5evergreenelectricgates.com+5fdc.com+5

Test battery backups to be sure they’re holding charge through cold outages.evergreenelectricgates.com+2Aberdeen Gate+2

Winter-Specific Care

• Clear snow and ice from beneath swing or slide paths to avoid blockage or strain.Artmetal+1
• Use a silicone‑based lubricant rated for cold climates if movement feels stiff.Artmetal+2evergreenelectricgates.com+2
• Check for moisture inside control boxes—ice can cause electrical malfunctions or corrosion.evergreenelectricgates.com+1
• Confirm that manual release mechanisms function smoothly—it’s critical during lockouts or power failures.acse.io+4evergreenelectricgates.com+4creativedoor.com+4

Replace remote control batteries with versions rated for low temperatures and ensure access devices have proper housing to shield from the elements.Artmetal

Annual Professional Maintenance

At least once per year—or every six months for heavy-use or commercial installations—arrange for expert maintenance by Art Metal. Professionals can:

• Conduct in-depth diagnostics of your gate system, inside and out.
• Verify safety device compliance and fine-tune alignment.

Service motors, control boards, batteries, and wiring—ensuring continued performance and warranty coverage.IN2 Access & Control Ltd+12fdc.com+12evergreenelectricgates.com+12automaticgates.info+2ToolSense+2

Quick Reference Table

By following this tailored checklist, you ensure the longevity, reliability, and safety of your automated gate—all while aligning with Art Metal’s standard of excellence. Interested in setting up a professional maintenance plan? Contact Art Metal today for year-round protection and peak gate performance.