Why won't my electric gate open?

You press the remote or tap in the code and nothing happens. The gate stays shut and you're stuck on one side of it. It's a stressful moment, but there are a few quick, safe checks that can tell you a lot about what's going on. You don't need any tools, and you won't need to open anything.

Safety first

Before you start, remember the basics:

• Keep clear of the gate whenever it could move. It could start moving while you're checking it.
• Never bypass or tape over safety devices, such as the photocells or safety edges.
• Don't open the control panel or any other cover, and don't try to force the gate open by hand.

If you're unsure about anything, don't touch it. Call us instead.

Check 1: Is there a power cut?

If the gate isn't responding at all, start with the power. Are the lights working in your house? Is the whole street affected? Check whether your neighbours have power too.

If the power is off, the gate may not work until it comes back. The safest option is to wait for the power to return and try again.

Check 2: Is it one remote, or the whole gate?

Next, work out whether the problem is with one device or with the gate itself.

• Try a second remote, if you have one.
• Try the keypad, if your gate has one.
• Try your intercom or phone opener, if you have one of those.

If the gate opens with the spare remote or the keypad, the gate is probably fine and the problem is likely to be with that one remote. If nothing opens it, the problem is more likely to be with the gate, its controls or its power. Either way, it's useful information to pass on when you call us.

Check 3: Is anything blocking the gate?

Have a look along the gate's path, keeping well clear of the gate itself. Swing gates need space to open into, and sliding gates need a clear track. Common culprits include:

• A parked car or a bin in the way of the gate
• Stones or gravel in a sliding gate's track
• Ice or snow building up in the track or where the gate swings
• Plants, leaves or garden furniture that have ended up in the gate's path

If something is obviously in the way, such as a bin or a loose stone, and the gate is stopped, you can move it by hand. If the gate is frozen in place or something is stuck under it, don't try to dig it out or lever it free. Call us.

Check 4: Listen and watch

When you press the remote, notice whether the gate does anything at all. Does it hum, beep or click? Does it move a little and then stop? Or is it completely silent?

You don't need to work out what it means. Just make a note of it, or better still, film it on your phone. A short video of what happens when you press the remote helps our engineer understand the problem before they arrive.

Need to get out urgently?

If you're stuck and need to get in or out, please don't force the gate or open any covers. Call us on 07890 387915 and we'll advise you on what to do next.

Still won't open? What happens next

If you've checked the power, tried another remote or the keypad and looked for anything in the way, and the gate still won't open, it's time to call an engineer. Call us on 07890 387915, or WhatsApp a photo or video to the same number. You can read more about our gate repairs service.

Call-out charges depend on your location, and repairs are quoted after an on-site assessment.

Our office hours are Monday to Friday, 8:00am–5:30pm. Out-of-hours emergency call-outs are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Extra charges apply outside normal hours.

If your gate gives you trouble often, a safety systems and gate health check or a maintenance contract can help spot worn parts before they let you down.

Frequently asked questions

Can I open my electric gate by hand?

Please don't force the gate or open any covers to get at the motor. If you need to get in or out urgently, call us on 07890 387915.

Only one of my remotes has stopped working. What should I do?

If a spare remote or the keypad still opens the gate, the gate itself is probably fine. Get in touch and we can look at the remote that isn't working.

How much does it cost to fix a gate that won't open?

Call-out charges depend on your location. Repairs are quoted after an on-site assessment.

Do you cover my area?

We're based in Southampton and work across Hampshire, Dorset, Surrey and Berkshire. See areas we cover.

Get in touch

Call 07890 387915 or WhatsApp us a photo or video on the same number, Monday to Friday, 8:00am–5:30pm. You can also contact us online.