Home improvement projects have been booming over the last few years and show no signs of slowing. Updates like automatic gates can offer greater convenience and safety, and even add value to your property.

If you have a gate at your home or are considering installing one, automatic gate openers are the way to go. They help you avoid the hassle of having to manually open and close the gate. 

Not all gate openers are created equal. If you are wondering what characterizes the best gate openers, keep reading. The information below will tell you what to look for so that you can select the best one for your property.

Type of Gate

The first thing to consider is the type of gate you have or wish to install. This will dictate the type and size of the opener you require.

Sliding gates move along a track. They need less space and look great, but tend to be more expensive and more complicated to install.

An automatic sliding gate opener requires less power to operate. They use a cog and teeth that slide the gate back and forth along the track.

Swing gates can open inward or outward. They are typically cheaper than sliding gates and require less maintenance. However, they need more space for the gate to operate.

Swing gates operate using a ring gear that turns a drive shaft. This moves an arm attached to the gate. The size and weight of your gate determine the type of motor needed to operate it.

Power Source

Most electric gate openers use an alternating current power source. They often have a backup battery for times when there is a power outage.

Solar-powered systems use a battery to store power so that they can operate the gate anytime the sun is not shining. Keep in mind that most small solar-powered gate openers are only designed to open and close about a dozen times a day. If you are coming and going more frequently than that, then you may consider an electric motor or a larger solar battery.

Locking and Opening Features

Next, you should decide if you need a locking mechanism on the gate. These are often electronic or magnetic and are integrated into the opening/closing system.

Automatic gate openers often use a remote or fob. Others use vehicle recognition tags to permit entrance.

More modern openers use smartphone apps to do so. This allows the operator to open and close the gate even if they are not near it.

Frequency of Use

Gate openers can last 20 to 25 years or more. This of course depends on the quality of the system you buy. Reputable ones will not only last longer but will require less maintenance and repairs over time.

How frequently the gate opens and closes every day depends on the type of opener you need. A gate on a single-family home that opens only a few times a day can get away with a less robust opener.

For large gated communities, the best gate openers will need to be more heavy-duty. Not only will they be working more on any given day but can open and close more quickly. Smaller openers that are slower could cause longer wait times and possible traffic congestion in your neighborhood.

Cost

Gate openers can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. The price is determined by the size and power of the opener, as well as any added features like smartphone capabilities.

Like almost any other product, you get what you pay for with gate openers. Off-brand openers are available, but investing in a quality product that will last longer and operate as intended may save you money (not to mention headaches) down the road.

Installation costs for gate openers will vary as well. Where you live and the company you hire will impact this, but reputable installers will be upfront about any variables that could impact the cost. Most will offer a free quote so that you will know what to expect going in.

Learn More About the Best Gate Openers

Now that you what makes the best gate openers, you can choose one that is right for your home, business, or community. Once you assess your unique needs and preferences, it will be easy to determine which is the best automatic gate opener to meet them.

At R&S of Richmond, we carry the industry’s highest quality gate operators. We also provide installation, maintenance, and repair. Reach out to us today for a free quote or to learn more about our products and services.