Are solar-powered gate openers right for you?
Are you a fan of modern inventions that simplify your day-to-day operations? A gate opener powered by the sun is one of those things you probably haven’t thought about. But, it can make your life just a bit simpler. It’s sustainable, easier to install, doesn’t require power access, and opens easily. Are solar-powered gate openers right for you? Read on to find out.
What is a solar-powered gate opener?
Solar-powered gate openers use panels to convert energy from the sun into usable electricity. These systems also have other elements that work together and supply a solar power bank or run a whole household of energy. A solar gate opener consists of the control box, actuator ram, solar panels, and solar battery. These parts work together to make the gate work. The system accumulates the power and converts it to electricity that powers your gate. In plain language, your solar gate opener will take energy from the sun. And voila – you’ll have a fully functional gate without power access. Amazing, isn’t it? Obviously, we share the thrill.
How To Decide If You Need a Solar Powered Gate Opener?
These gate openers are becoming increasingly popular. But, as with any other product on the market, not everyone finds them ideal. To help you decide whether it’s worth investing in this type of gate, let’s look at what you can get from installing one. We’ll then continue to learn if the solar gate opener is right for you.
Pros of Solar-powered Gate Openers
Cost-effective
The first pro about installing a solar-powered gate opened is that you’ll have lower energy bills. That’s because the solar opener gets the energy from the sun, so it doesn’t affect your energy bill at all. You’ll have to deal with the initial expense of installation. But, you’ll save on your bills in the long run.
Safe
The next pro about solar-powered gate openers is safety. Rest assured that your gate will not fail you in case of power outages, simply because it’s not using any. You won’t have to be worried about being stuck and unable to take your car out of your property.
Doesn’t need 240 volt
Another pro about installing a solar-powered gate opener is the installation. This type of gate doesn’t require 240-volt cables. It means that you don’t need an electrician. Plus, you can install it even in a location that doesn’t have access to power.
Eco-friendly
When you’re not using electricity, you’re reducing the impact you make on the environment. Powering your gate without resorting to grid electricity is a big thing for many people. If you’re looking for an eco-friendly and sustainable alternative for your electric gate, then solar powered gate opener may be the right fit.
Are Solar-powered Gate Openers Right for You?
We’ve learned about solar-powered gate openers and got familiar with some of the pros of installing them. Now, let’s take a look at few things that will help you decide whether to get this type of gate opener.
You get plenty of sunlight
As their name suggests, solar-powered openers require lots of sunlight. They actually require a huge amount of unobstructed sunlight in order to work. Even if you get plenty of daylight, but your gate is in a big shade under the trees, it probably won’t get enough light to function properly. You must have enough sunlight in order to install a standard solar gate opener. On the other hand, if your house is bathed in sun for more than eight hours a day, go ahead and get yourself one of the amazing solar-powered gates.
The good news is that all of the above applies to some openers. But, with technological advancements, you can find special openers designed to charge during cloudy weather. Seems like you can have your solar gate opener even if you don’t live in a sunny state, you’ll just have to find the right type.
You open the gate only a few times a day
If you open and close your gate less than 8-10 times a day, you’ll be just fine with installing a solar-powered gate. However, if you’re used to lots of ins and outs throughout the day, then this may not be the best fit. The reason is that this type of gate usually has enough energy to open and close no more than 10 times in one day. Most households are fine with this, but it’s definitely something to consider before you invest in a solar gate opener.
You’re fine with maintenance
The last, but certainly as important as previous things to consider is whether you’re okay with maintenance costs related to solar-powered gate openers. You can quickly change the lock on your bedroom door. But, if you have a solar gate, you’ll have to maintain the panels that generate the electricity. You’ll also have to step up your gardening game, as it will be necessary to keep trees and branches from blocking the sunlight.
If you’re thinking about investing in a solar-powered gate opener, we hope this text helped you understand if it’s the right decision to make. Once you make up your mind and decide to go for it, reach out to an experienced solar automatic gate openers service. By doing so, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that a professional helped you navigate the process and install your gate properly. Here at Integrity Automatic Gates, we install the best custom iron gates in Austin, fences, gate openers, intercoms, and access control systems. We also provide an electric gate maintenance service. Let’s get in touch to tailor a plan and install a new feature that you can be proud of.
