Electric Gate Won't Open? Here's What to Check

There's nothing worse than sitting in the car in the rain with a gate that won't open. Work through these checks, in this order – most of the time it's something simple.

1. Does anything work?

Try the remote, a second remote, the keypad and the intercom.

• Nothing works at all → probably power or the control board. Go to step 2.
• Some things work, but not your remote → probably the remote. See gate remote not working?

2. Check the power

• Has there been a power cut, even a short one?
• Is the gate's isolator switch turned on? (Usually a switch on a post, wall or garage, near the gate or the house.)
• Has anything tripped at your fuse board? If it's tripped once, reset it. If it trips again, leave it off and call me – there's a fault.

See not working after a power cut.

3. Is the manual release engaged?

If someone has used the manual release to move the gate by hand, the motor can't drive it until it's locked back in. Check the motor for a release key or lever that's been left open. See manual release.

4. Is something blocking the gate?

• gravel, stones or leaves under or behind the gate
• a sliding gate track full of debris
• standing water around an underground motor cover (a sign the box may be flooded – don't touch it, call me)
• ice in very cold weather

5. Listen to the motor

• Clicking, but no movement → the board is trying, but something's not working. Call me.
• Humming, but no movement → stop trying. The motor's straining – possibly a jammed gate or failed part. Call me.
• Silence → power, board or receiver issue.

6. Can you get in?

If it's safe to, use the manual release to open the gate by hand, and leave it on manual until it's fixed.

When to call me

If the quick checks haven't worked, it's time for an engineer. Don't open the control box or keep pressing the remote. Call, text or WhatsApp Adrian on 07855 781433 – a short video of what the gate does when you press the remote is really useful.

Questions people ask me