How To Choose The Right Automatic Gate Opener
If you're installing a driveway gate to completely fence your yard, an automatic gate opener can make it much easier to get in and out, especially if you're in an area that's prone to bad weather. There's nothing worse than having to get out of your car to open the driveway gate when it's pouring rain, after you've just put in a full day at work. Let's look at what you need to know when choosing your gate opener.
The first thing you'll need to determine is the type of gate you're going to be dealing with. Is it a single swing or dual swing gate? Or perhaps a sliding gate? The opener needs to be designed for the style of gate, as well as have enough strength to handle the size and weight of your gate.
When comparing automatic gate openers, you'll find a wide range of prices. A basic unit like the Mighty Mule FM200 single swing gate opener will run about $180, while a commercial-grade gate opener can cost upwards of $1000. If you're looking for a dual swing opener, something like the Mighty Mule FM502 would be suitable, at about $700.
Of course, there are other brands as well. Some of the more popular ones include the aforementioned Mighty Mule, GTO, Apollo, Elite, Dorring and Viper. Your local home center will carry some, but the best selection will likely be available from a fencing supplier. And of course you can always shop on the internet to find almost any brand and model you want, often at a pretty good discount.
Most automatic gate openers are electric power and will need to be wired into your main power supply. If the gate is more remote and wiring it into a power source isn't as easy, you can also get solar powered openers that will keep a battery charged via solar power, and run from the battery when it's dark.
While there are alternatives to electric gate openers, there's really no other option that can be completely automatic. Counterweight openers can often run automatically once you start opening them, but you still need to physically start the process. And antique driveway gate openers, which are quite popular at the moment, look great but are antique in more than one way - they need good a old-fashioned push to open.
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