Security, Property & Gate Automation Daily Briefing

Published by Premier Automatic Gates
Website: www.automaticgates.co.ke
Tuesday, 17th February 2026
Nairobi, Kenya

Call | Text | WhatsApp: +254 722 708034 | 0720 456534

---

LEAD STORY

Why Gate Automation Repairs Are Rising in Kenya — and How to Avoid Costly Breakdowns

Across Nairobi and surrounding counties, the demand for gate motor repairs and servicing has increased significantly in recent months.

At Premier Automatic Gates, we continue to receive frequent service requests from homeowners, apartment managers, and commercial property owners who experience sudden gate failures, slow gate movement, or complete motor shutdown.

Most of these problems are preventable.

Gate automation systems are designed to provide convenience and security, but they also require correct installation and regular maintenance. Without proper servicing, small mechanical issues can turn into major failures that damage motors, control boards, and gear systems.

The good news is that with routine checks and professional servicing, a quality gate motor can last for many years.

---

MAINTENANCE REPORT

The 6 Most Common Causes of Gate Motor Failure in Kenya

Gate motors often fail due to avoidable issues rather than poor motor quality.

The most common causes include:

1. Dirty Tracks and Blocked Movement
   Stones, soil, and debris create resistance, forcing the motor to strain.

2. Worn-Out Rollers or Hinges
   A gate that drags increases motor load and leads to overheating.

3. Power Surges and Poor Wiring
   Voltage fluctuations can destroy control boards and electronic components.

4. Water Damage and Poor Motor Protection
   Rainwater and flooding can damage internal motor systems and wiring.

5. Weak Gate Fabrication
   A gate that is too heavy or unbalanced creates constant pressure on the motor.

6. Lack of Routine Servicing
   Most breakdowns start as minor issues that are ignored for months.

Premier Automatic Gates advises clients to service their systems before complete failure occurs.

---

SECURITY DESK

Why Manual Gates Are Still a Risk in 2026

Manual gates remain common across many homes and businesses in Kenya. However, security professionals highlight that manual gates are still among the easiest access points for intruders.

Manual gates create security risks because:

• they require someone to physically open them

• they expose homeowners and staff to danger at night

• they rely on padlocks that can be cut easily

• they often remain open for long periods during deliveries

• they offer limited visitor control

Automated gates reduce these risks by allowing controlled entry from inside the house or office.

At Premier Automatic Gates, many clients upgrade after experiencing near incidents, attempted break-ins, or security-related discomfort.

---

TECH FEATURE

Backup Batteries: The Most Important Feature in Gate Automation Today

Many clients ask why their gate fails during power outages. In most cases, the system has weak batteries or lacks proper backup support.

Backup batteries are critical because they ensure:

• the gate continues operating during blackouts

• security is not compromised at night

• the motor avoids sudden shutdown damage

• residents can enter and exit without delays

A good backup system must use strong, properly rated batteries and professional wiring.

Premier Automatic Gates offers battery upgrades and full backup replacements for clients whose gates stop functioning when power goes off.

---

ENERGY COLUMN

Solar Powered Gates: The Best Solution for Estates and Rural Homes

Solar powered gate automation continues to grow in popularity, especially in areas with unreliable electricity supply.

Solar gate systems are recommended for:

• rural homes and farms

• estates with frequent power interruptions

• high-security compounds

• commercial premises needing uninterrupted access

A professional solar gate system includes:

• solar panels sized for your daily usage

• deep cycle batteries

• charge controller

• surge protection

• proper wiring and installation

Premier Automatic Gates supplies and installs solar gate systems designed for long-term reliability in Kenyan conditions.

---

CUSTOMER GUIDE

When Should You Repair vs Replace a Gate Motor?

Many property owners delay repairs until the motor fails completely. This often leads to higher costs.

You should consider repairs if:

• the motor still powers on

• the gate moves but struggles

• the remote control works intermittently

• the problem is mechanical (rollers, track, alignment)

You should consider replacement if:

• the control board is burnt repeatedly

• the motor is overheating constantly

• the motor is outdated and lacks spare parts

• the gearbox is severely worn

• the system fails frequently despite repairs

Premier Automatic Gates provides professional assessment and recommends the most cost-effective solution.

---

INSTALLATION FEATURE

Why Gate Alignment Matters More Than Most Homeowners Realise

A gate motor works best when the gate is balanced and aligned correctly. Even a small misalignment can cause:

• strain on the motor

• slow movement

• noisy operation

• increased electricity consumption

• rapid wear of rollers and gears

• repeated breakdowns

Many gate automation issues in Kenya begin with poor gate fabrication or damaged rollers.

Premier Automatic Gates checks alignment and gate structure before motor installation to ensure smooth operation and long-term performance.

---

TODAY’S RECOMMENDED UPGRADE

Add a Keypad or GSM Access System for Better Visitor Control

Remote controls are convenient, but they can be lost, duplicated, or misused.

Many Kenyan homes and apartments are now upgrading to:

• keypad entry systems

• GSM phone access systems

• tag and card access systems

These upgrades improve visitor control and reduce the risk of unauthorized access.

Premier Automatic Gates installs access control systems compatible with both sliding and swing gate motors.

---

CUSTOMER STATEMENT OF THE DAY

“Our gate motor stopped working during blackouts and the gate became unreliable. Premier Automatic Gates upgraded the backup battery and serviced the system. Now it works perfectly.”
Client, Athi River

---

PREMIER AUTOMATIC GATES SERVICE DESK

Premier Automatic Gates provides:

• sliding gate motor installation

• swing gate motor installation

• gate automation servicing and repairs

• solar powered gate motor solutions

• backup battery replacement

• remote control replacement and programming

• GSM gate access systems

• keypad and access tag systems

• photocell safety sensor installation

• intercom integration

Service Areas:
Nairobi, Kiambu, Ruiru, Thika, Juja, Machakos, Kitengela, Syokimau, Athi River, Kajiado, Naivasha, Nakuru and across Kenya.

---

TOMORROW’S PREVIEW (WEDNESDAY)

Tomorrow’s edition will cover:

• How to choose the best sliding gate motor in Kenya

• Why gate motors fail in apartments

• Gate automation safety rules for families

• Best gate solutions for businesses and warehouses

---

Premier Automatic Gates
Website: www.automaticgates.co.ke
Call | Text | WhatsApp: +254 722 708034 | 0720 456534

Gate Automation Systems in Kenya | Sliding Gate Motors | Swing Gate Automation | Solar Gate Solutions | Repairs and Maintenance