Are we the original Solargate ?
    Yes, beware of others trying to use our registered name SOLAR GATE. Others come and go and parts become impossible to find. Always buy with confidence wherever you see SOLARMAN.

Can the gate close automatically ?
    Solar Gate has a built in automatic close sensor which can be set at the flick of a switch and can be adjusted for up to 2 minutes delay before closing.

Do we build gates ?

    No, we are not gate manufacturers, please check your local Yellow Pages for gate manufacturing. We are happy to give your gate manufacturer installation measurements on our products upon request.

Do I need to install 240 volt to the gate operator ?

    No. A 12-volt battery located inside the control box operates the unit. The battery is trickle-charged by a transformer or solar panel. The wire from the transformer / solar panel to the battery is a low voltage wire that can be up to 50metres long. 

Will the unit fit on my gate ?

Yes. Solargate has been designed to fit all types of gates from residential to farm and commercial gates.

Is everything I need included with the kit ? 

    Yes, everything. 

    The cable for the double gate travels from the control box usually mounted near the master gatepost, down to the ground, across the driveway and then back up to the slave unit located on the slave gate.  

Can I mount the solar panel or control box away from the gate ?

    Yes, you can mount either the Solar Panel or Control Box up to 50 metres away. Make sure not to shade the solar panel. It requires UV rays and sunlight to charge successfully. It even charges on cloudy days, so make sure the solar panel is not near a shadow as this will discharge the batteries. Mounting the panel on or near a tree often causes most problems. If you are unsure mount the panel away from the gate.

How long does it take to install an operator ? 

    It is safe to assume the average homeowner can install one complete single gate operator in less than 1 to 2 hours at a leisurely pace. That is assuming the gate is installed and in good working order. Low voltage wire may require burying, which may take extra time. A second operator installed for a double gate will take about another 1 hours plus the time it might take to install the control cable from the control box to the other operator. That line needs to be buried under the driveway.

What do I do if I want to locate the control box further from the operator arm ?

    You can mount the control box up to 50 metres away.

What is the range of the transmitters ?

    About 200 metres, if unobstructed and in a good area. We have seen distances of up to 500 metres. Mount the optional antenna as high as possible on non-metallic posts for optimum range.

What if the meter reader, friend, neighbours or delivery person needs to use the gate?

    For people who need access, other than regulars, an optional wireless keypad is available that requires a code to be typed into the keypad. You can change the code whenever you like and provide that code to authorized users. You can also use a lockable push-button to let anyone in.

What safety features would prevent someone from getting caught in the gate?

    The gate is equipped with an obstruction sensitive control that is adjustable so even the slightest obstacle pressure will stop the gate. A warning sign is also included to warn pedestrians that the gate is an automatic electric powered.

The SG12 and J360 control boards leave the factory set for the most sensitive setting. That is the safest setting. Most installations require that to be adjusted to a less sensitive setting. You should adjust the controls to suite the force on your gate upon installation.

What normal maintenance is required?

    Besides making sure the gate is in good repair and swings or slides easily, minor programming adjustments may be necessary from time to time. The operator is programmable for opening and closing distances. If the gate should not close or open completely, the controls may need resetting. This is a simple process that is performed at the control box with directions in your owner's manual. Always grease hinges or rollers as required to ensure easy movement of the gate. Most operators fail because the gates or gate posts have failed and batteries have not been maintained charged

IMPORTANT: Spray a silicone or Teflon spray (these are the only products Solargate recommend on the linear tube while it is fully extended and retract the arm while spraying it down (if required). Do not use WD-40 or RP 7 as these products collect dust.