Every Gate Automation Question Answered — Kenya's Most Complete Guide

Gate automation is the process of adding an electric motor, control system and access devices to a gate to enable it to open and close automatically — without manual effort. The core components are:

• Motor / operator: The electric motor that physically moves the gate. For sliding gates this drives a rack-and-pinion. For swing gates it uses an arm actuator or underground linear drive.
• Control board: The brain of the system — receives commands from remotes, keypads or sensors and tells the motor when to open, close or stop.
• Safety sensors (photo-eyes): Infrared beams that detect obstacles and stop or reverse the gate to prevent accidents.
• Battery backup: A sealed battery that keeps the system running during KPLC power outages.
• Access devices: Remote controls, keypads, RFID card readers, intercoms, smartphone apps or vehicle loop detectors used to trigger the gate to open.

When you press your remote, the signal is received by the control board, which activates the motor to drive the gate open. After a set time (or on command), the gate closes automatically. Modern smart systems can also send you alerts when the gate opens and let you operate it from anywhere via smartphone.

Sliding gates run horizontally along a track, parallel to the fence or wall. The gate does not need space to swing outward into the driveway — it simply slides to the side. This makes sliding gates ideal for most Kenyan properties where the gate is positioned close to the road, the driveway is short, or space is limited.

Swing gates pivot on hinges, opening inward or outward like a traditional door. They require enough clear driveway depth for the gate leaf to open fully without hitting a vehicle or wall. Double-leaf swing gates (two panels meeting in the middle) are common for wider entrances.

Key deciding factors:

• Driveway depth: If less than 3–4 metres clear, use a sliding gate. If more space is available, swing or sliding both work.
• Ground slope: Steeply sloped driveways suit sliding gates better, as swing gates can catch on the ground when opening.
• Gate width: Very wide gates (6m+) are usually easier to automate as sliders.
• Budget: For lighter residential gates, swing gate systems can be slightly more affordable.
• Aesthetics: Underground swing gate motors give a completely hidden, clean appearance.

Our site assessment covers all these factors and we will recommend the most suitable option for your specific property.

Yes — in most cases, your existing gate can be automated. We automate existing gates all the time. The key conditions we check during a site visit are:

• Structural condition: The gate must be sound — no broken welds, heavy rust through main members, or severe warping.
• For sliding gates: The gate must track straight, the ground must be reasonably level, and the existing wheel setup must be serviceable or replaceable.
• For swing gates: The hinges must be in good condition and the gate must swing freely without binding or scraping the ground.
• Weight: We measure the actual gate weight and confirm it is within the motor's rated capacity. If a gate has been modified or heavily built, it may require a more powerful motor.

If we find issues during assessment, we will advise on what repairs are needed before automation can proceed safely. Automating a structurally compromised gate risks damaging the motor and creating a safety hazard — we will never recommend that.

For a standard residential gate automation (sliding or swing, motor only with remotes and battery backup), our installation team typically completes the job in one full working day.

More complex installations take longer:

• Civil works required (e.g. concrete for a sliding gate motor plinth or new gate track installation): Add 1–2 days, including curing time.
• Intercom + video system installation: Add half a day to a full day for cabling and commissioning.
• RFID access control with multiple readers: Add 1 day depending on number of readers and cabling runs.
• Underground (buried) swing gate motor: Add 1 day for excavation and concrete.
• Large commercial or multi-gate estate systems: 3–5 days depending on scope.

We give you an accurate timeline during the quotation stage so you can plan accordingly. We schedule installations at your convenience including Saturdays.

Yes — modern automatic gate systems include multiple safety features specifically designed to protect children, pets and anyone in the gate's path:

• Infrared photo-eye safety beams: Two sensors mounted at low height on either side of the gate entrance. If anything breaks the beam while the gate is closing (a child, pet or person), the gate immediately stops and reverses.
• Anti-crush / auto-reverse: The control board monitors motor current draw. If the gate encounters an obstacle and the motor load increases suddenly, it reverses automatically.
• Adjustable closing force: The maximum force the gate can exert is programmable — we set this to the minimum needed, reducing risk of injury on contact.
• Warning lights and buzzers: Optional flashing LED lights and audible warnings alert people near the gate before it begins moving.
• Slow-close function: Gates can be programmed to slow down before fully closing.

Importantly, safety sensors must be properly installed and maintained. We install them as standard on every system and include them in our annual maintenance checks. A gate without functioning safety beams is a safety risk — if yours aren't working, contact us immediately.

Yes. Several technologies enable smartphone-based gate control:

• GSM Dialler (Call-to-Open): A device connected to the gate's control board that contains a SIM card. You call or text a number and the gate opens. Works from anywhere in the world with mobile signal. No internet required at the gate — just airtime.
• Wi-Fi / Internet Relay Module: Connects the gate motor to your home Wi-Fi or a dedicated SIM data connection. Allows real-time control and gate status notifications via a smartphone app.
• Smart Motor Apps: Centurion's SMART series motors have integrated connectivity. The AXS Point module links the motor to the Centurion Connect app for remote access, event logs and multi-user management.
• Video Intercom App: Systems like DoorBird or app-enabled Hikvision intercoms let you see who is at your gate on your phone and open it remotely — even from Mombasa if your gate is in Nairobi.

We advise on the right remote access solution for your security level, budget and connectivity at your property. A simple GSM dialler is affordable and works even on slow networks. Advanced smart systems require a stable internet connection at the gate location.

Yes — we install and service gate automation systems across all 47 counties in Kenya. Our teams work directly across Nairobi and the greater Nairobi region (Kiambu, Machakos, Kajiado). For other counties, we coordinate supply, logistics and installation through our nationwide network.

Locations we regularly serve include:

• Mombasa, Kilifi, Kwale, Diani, Malindi, Lamu (Coast Region)
• Nakuru, Naivasha, Gilgil, Molo (Rift Valley)
• Kisumu, Kisii, Homa Bay, Migori, Siaya (Nyanza)
• Eldoret, Kitale, Webuye, Bungoma (Western / North Rift)
• Nyeri, Nanyuki, Meru, Embu, Chuka (Mt Kenya Region)
• Garissa, Isiolo, Marsabit, Moyale (Northern Kenya)
• All farms, ranches and rural properties — solar systems available for off-grid locations

Travel costs for upcountry installations are included transparently in your quotation — no surprises. Contact us with your location and we will advise on the best arrangement.

There is no single "best" brand for all situations — the right choice depends on your gate, usage and budget. Here is our honest assessment of the brands we supply:

• Centurion Systems (South Africa): Our most recommended brand for residential and light commercial use in Kenya. Excellent reliability, rolling-code remote security, smart diagnostics, strong spare parts availability across Kenya. D5-Evo, D6 Smart and D10 Smart are most popular.
• FAAC (Italy): Premium choice for heavy commercial and industrial applications requiring high-cycle operation and maximum durability. Higher initial cost, superior longevity. Best for high-traffic entrances.
• BFT (Italy): Excellent Italian engineering, popular for upmarket residential estates. Good aesthetics, reliable electronics. Deimos (sliding) and Phobos/Igea (swing) are widely installed in Nairobi.
• CAME (Italy): Strong for commercial and institutional projects. Wide product range covering all gate types, barrier systems and access control.
• Nice (Italy): Good mid-range option. Hansa Drive 500 and 2500i are proven performers in Kenya. Good value at the medium-to-heavy segment.
• ET Systems (South Africa): Budget-friendly option for residential use. Lower initial cost, basic features, adequate for light-duty residential applications.

We are brand-agnostic — we recommend what is right for your gate and situation, not what gives us the highest margin. Our site assessment helps us match you with the ideal brand and model.

Gate automation costs in Kenya vary widely depending on gate type, weight, motor brand and accessories. Here is a realistic pricing overview (fully installed, including motor, accessories and labour):

• Basic residential swing gate (single leaf, light, entry-level motor): KES 45,000 – 65,000
• Standard residential sliding gate (up to 500kg, Centurion D5/D6): KES 55,000 – 90,000
• Double-leaf swing gate (residential, mid-range motor): KES 80,000 – 130,000
• Solar sliding gate system (residential, off-grid): KES 75,000 – 130,000
• Heavy commercial sliding gate (500kg–2,000kg, FAAC or Centurion D10/D20): KES 120,000 – 280,000
• Barrier / boom gate system: KES 90,000 – 220,000
• Video intercom integration (added to gate): KES 25,000 – 70,000
• RFID access control system (added to gate): KES 18,000 – 55,000

These are approximate ranges. Your actual cost depends on your specific gate, site conditions and chosen specifications. We provide a free, detailed written quotation — contact us for an accurate price.

Our installation quotations are fully inclusive. Here is what is typically covered:

• Gate motor / operator unit (specified brand and model)
• Rack and pinion (for sliding gates) or actuator arms (for swing gates)
• Control board and wiring
• 2× remote control handsets (additional remotes available)
• Infrared safety photo-eye sensors (both sides)
• Sealed battery backup unit
• Motor housing / cover bracket and mounting hardware
• All installation labour including cable runs
• Commissioning, testing and client training
• 12-month workmanship warranty documentation

Items that may be separately quoted if needed: intercom systems, RFID readers, keypads, GSM diallers, solar panels, additional remote handsets, civil works (concrete plinths, new gate track), and gate repairs or modifications needed before automation.

We itemise everything in our quotes — you will know exactly what each component costs before you approve anything.

This is a very important question. The gate automation market in Kenya unfortunately has a significant problem with counterfeit and grey-market motors. Here is what drives low quotes:

• Fake or replica motors: Cheap copies of Centurion, FAAC and BFT motors that look similar but use inferior components — cheap capacitors, weak control boards, low-grade gear assemblies. These typically fail within 12–24 months in Kenya's dusty, humid conditions.
• No safety sensors: Photo-eye sensors are sometimes excluded to reduce cost. This creates a genuine safety risk, especially for children and pets.
• No battery backup: Omitting the battery means the gate is inoperable during KPLC outages — extremely problematic in Kenya.
• Inadequate motor for gate weight: Using a 300kg-rated motor on a 600kg gate. The motor works initially but burns out prematurely from overloading.
• No warranty or after-sales: Low-price operators often disappear after installation, leaving you without support when problems arise.

We never compromise on these elements. Our prices reflect genuine, warranted products, complete safety specifications and professional installation. A fake motor that fails in 18 months and costs KES 25,000 to replace is far more expensive than a genuine motor done right the first time.

We understand that gate automation represents a significant upfront investment. We currently offer the following flexible payment arrangements:

• Deposit + balance on completion: A percentage deposit on order confirmation, with the balance due on the day of installation completion. This is our most common arrangement.
• Staged payments for large projects: For commercial and estate-wide installations, payments can be staged to align with project milestones.
• Mobile money: We accept M-Pesa Paybill, bank transfer and cash.

Contact us to discuss payment options for your specific project. We are flexible and aim to make quality gate automation accessible to all clients.

Yes, there are modest ongoing costs to be aware of:

• Electricity: Gate motors consume very little power when on standby. A typical residential gate motor uses approximately 3–8 watts on standby and 150–400 watts when actively moving. Annual electricity cost is negligible — typically KES 800–2,000 for a residential gate.
• Battery replacement: The sealed backup battery should be replaced every 2–3 years, or when backup duration reduces noticeably. Cost: KES 2,500–6,000 depending on battery size.
• Lubricant: Rack and pinion lubricant (silicone or lithium grease) applied monthly. A tube costs KES 300–600 and lasts 6–12 months.
• Annual professional service: Recommended once a year. Cost: KES 3,500–8,000 depending on system complexity. Covers full mechanical and electrical inspection, lubrication, limit switch calibration and software checks.
• GSM dialler airtime: If you use a GSM call-to-open device, you will need to keep a small airtime balance. Many operators use very little airtime monthly.

Budgeting KES 8,000–15,000 per year covers all maintenance and consumables for most residential automatic gate systems in Kenya.

Civil works requirements depend on the gate type and existing infrastructure:

• Sliding gate — motor plinth: The motor unit sits on a concrete plinth adjacent to the gate pillar. If one doesn't exist, we construct one during installation. Requires 1–2 days including curing time.
• Sliding gate — track installation: If the gate has no ground track or roller, we install a galvanized steel guide track set into concrete along the gate's travel path.
• Swing gate — motor mounting: Arm-type motors mount directly onto the gate pillar — minimal civil works usually required. Underground motors require excavation and a concrete housing.
• Electrical supply: The motor needs a dedicated power feed from your DB board, protected by an appropriate breaker. If the gate position is far from the DB board, cable trenching may be needed.
• Intercom cable trenching: If your intercom is wired (not wireless), cabling runs from the gate to the house require trenching, typically 2–3 metres deep alongside paths or driveways.

We assess all civil requirements during the site visit and include them in your quote. For standard installations, minimal to no civil works are needed.

Standard automatic gate motors in Kenya operate on 230V AC mains supply (Kenya's standard single-phase electricity from KPLC). The motor should be connected to a dedicated circuit from your distribution board with an appropriate circuit breaker — typically 6A or 10A for residential motors.

Important electrical considerations:

• The motor must be properly earthed (grounded) for safety and equipment protection.
• A surge protection device (SPD) is strongly recommended to protect the sensitive control board from voltage spikes, which are common on Kenya's power grid.
• Cable from the DB board to the motor must be adequately sized for the run length — undersized cable causes voltage drop and motor problems.
• For solar systems, the motor operates on DC power supplied by the solar panel and battery — no mains connection needed.

Our installation includes all electrical work from the nearest convenient power source to the motor. If your gate is far from the DB board, we quote for the cable run accordingly.

Gate motors are rated by maximum gate weight. Here is the range of systems we supply:

• Light residential sliding: Up to 300–500kg — Centurion D5-Evo, D6 Smart, ET Systems
• Medium commercial sliding: Up to 800–1,000kg — Centurion D10, FAAC 740/741
• Heavy commercial/industrial sliding: Up to 1,500–2,000kg+ — Centurion D20 Smart, FAAC 844, CAME BX-78
• Residential swing (per leaf): Up to 250–400kg — Centurion Vantage, BFT Igea, CAME FROG
• Commercial swing (per leaf): Up to 500–800kg — FAAC 390, FAAC 391

We weigh or estimate gate weight during site assessment to ensure we select a motor with at least 20–30% headroom above actual gate weight. Running a motor at maximum rated capacity continuously accelerates wear and shortens lifespan.

Our standard installation includes 2 remote control handsets. Most gate motor systems support adding many more remotes — typically up to 50–200 depending on the motor model and controller memory.

Adding remotes is straightforward — we programme them during installation or can programme additional remotes during a subsequent visit or via phone guidance. Modern smart motors allow remote registration and deletion through an app.

Important security note: All motors we supply use rolling-code (hopping code) technology — the remote code changes with every press, making it virtually impossible for thieves to copy your remote signal with a code-grabber device. Avoid cheap clone motors that use fixed-code remotes — these are easily cloned and represent a serious security vulnerability.

Additional remote handsets cost approximately KES 1,500–4,000 each depending on brand. Long-range remotes (for large properties or vehicles) are also available.

Yes — quality gate motors are designed and rated for outdoor installation. However, Kenya's environment presents specific challenges that influence motor selection and installation practice:

• Dust (Nairobi, Rift Valley, Northern Kenya): Gate motor housings should have an IP54 or better ingress protection rating to keep dust out of motor internals and electronics. We ensure all motors we install meet minimum IP ratings for the environment.
• Heavy rains (coastal areas, Nairobi long rains): All outdoor electrical connections must be properly weatherproofed. Sensor housings and cable entry points are sealed during installation.
• Coastal salt air (Mombasa, Malindi, Lamu, Diani): Salt-laden air causes accelerated corrosion of exposed metal parts, brackets and rack gearing. We specify stainless steel or hot-dip galvanized hardware for coastal installations, and recommend PVC coated rack for coastal areas.
• Temperature extremes: Kenya's temperatures are generally within the operating range of all motors we supply (typically -20°C to +55°C). Direct sunlight on the motor can cause overheating — we position motors in shade where possible or specify motors with thermal cut-out protection.

Regular maintenance (monthly lubrication, keeping the track clear of debris) is the most important factor in longevity under Kenyan conditions.

A gate cycle is one open + one close operation. The cycle rating (also called duty cycle) is the maximum number of cycles a motor is designed to handle per hour or per day before needing to cool down or before it wears prematurely.

Why it matters in Kenya:

• Residential gates typically operate 10–30 cycles per day — a standard residential motor is adequate.
• Estate entrance gates may operate 100–300 cycles per day — requires a high-duty-cycle commercial motor.
• Industrial or factory gates operating continuously may need 500+ cycles per day — industrial hydraulic or heavy-duty commercial operators are required.

Using a residential-rated motor on a high-traffic entrance is one of the most common mistakes we see in Kenya. The motor overheats, the thermal cutout trips repeatedly, and the motor fails prematurely — often within months. We match motor duty cycle rating to your actual daily cycle count during assessment.

Yes. For properties with multiple gates — for example a main entrance gate and a secondary pedestrian gate, or an estate with multiple access points — we design integrated access control systems:

• Multi-channel remotes: A single remote with multiple channels can open different gates independently.
• Networked access control: RFID-based systems can manage multiple gate controllers from a single software platform — one card or fob operates all authorised gates.
• Estate-wide management: For gated communities with 50–500+ units, we design centralised access management systems where residents have RFID cards, visitor intercoms are at the main entrance, and the management office has full visibility and control.
• Interlocking (airlock) gates: For high-security entries, two sequential gates can be interlocked so the second only opens after the first closes — preventing tailgating.

Contact us with your specific multi-gate requirements and we will design the appropriate integrated solution.

Yes — all our gate automation systems include a sealed lead-acid or gel battery backup as standard. The battery is continuously trickle-charged whenever mains power is available, and automatically takes over the moment a power cut occurs. You will not notice any difference in gate operation during a power outage.

Backup duration depends on battery size and how frequently you use the gate:

• Standard 7Ah battery: Approximately 4–12 hours of normal residential use
• Upgraded 18Ah battery: 12–36 hours depending on usage frequency
• Full solar system: Indefinite — no dependence on KPLC at all

Additionally, every system includes a mechanical manual release key — a physical key that disengages the motor clutch, allowing you to push the gate open manually in an emergency (flat battery, motor failure, etc.). We always show clients how to use this during handover.

A solar gate motor kit replaces the mains power supply entirely with solar energy. The system works as follows:

• Solar panel (20W–80W): Mounted facing south at an optimal angle, the panel captures sunlight and converts it to DC electricity throughout the day.
• Solar charge controller: Manages the flow of energy from the panel to the battery, preventing overcharging and ensuring maximum battery life.
• Deep-cycle battery (12V, 18Ah–75Ah): Stores the solar-generated energy for use at night or during overcast periods. Deep-cycle batteries are specifically designed for repeated charge-discharge cycles — unlike car batteries.
• DC motor: The gate motor operates directly on 12V or 24V DC from the battery — no inverter needed. This is more efficient than converting solar energy to mains AC and back to DC.

In Kenya's abundant sunshine, a 20W panel with an 18Ah battery easily runs a residential gate for 24+ hours without sun — meaning even during cloudy days or consecutive overcast periods, the system continues working. We size the solar panel and battery appropriately for your daily cycle count and local weather patterns.

A solar gate motor is the right choice in these situations:

• No mains electricity at the gate location: Farms, rural homes, remote plots, guesthouses and camps without KPLC connection.
• Very unreliable KPLC supply: Areas where power cuts last hours or days regularly — northern Kenya, some coastal areas, certain rural towns.
• Gate is far from the DB board: When running mains cable to the gate would be very expensive or impractical (long cable trench across a large compound), solar can be more cost-effective.
• Off-grid preference: Property owners who want to reduce electricity dependence and ongoing electricity costs.
• Agricultural and farm properties: Farm entrances where running power to the gate is not feasible.

If you have a reliable mains supply at or near the gate, a mains-powered system with battery backup is generally the simpler, lower-maintenance option. Both systems include battery backup — the difference is the energy source that keeps the battery charged.

The sealed lead-acid or gel backup battery in your gate motor typically lasts 2–4 years under normal conditions in Kenya. The lifespan depends on:

• Frequency and duration of power cuts: More frequent deep discharges shorten battery life. Areas with very frequent outages should use larger batteries.
• Temperature: Batteries degrade faster in high temperatures. Motors in direct sun with the battery inside a hot housing age faster.
• Battery quality: Genuine deep-cycle batteries last longer than cheap replacements.

Signs your battery needs replacement:

• Gate operates slowly or sluggishly during a power outage
• Battery runs flat within minutes of a power cut (when it used to last hours)
• Control board displays a low battery warning (on smart motors)
• Physical swelling or leakage from the battery case

Battery replacement is a straightforward job — we carry common battery sizes in stock and can replace during a service call. Cost: KES 2,500–6,000 for a quality replacement battery.

Beyond the standard remote control, automatic gates in Kenya can be integrated with a wide range of access control technologies:

• PIN Keypad: Enter a code to open the gate. Useful for regular visitors, staff or delivery drivers who need recurring access without a physical key or remote. Codes can be changed easily. Budget-friendly option.
• RFID Card / Key Fob Reader: Tap a proximity card or key fob to open. Ideal for estates, offices, and properties with multiple users. Cards can be issued and cancelled individually. Access logs are available.
• Biometric Fingerprint Reader: Opens the gate when it reads an authorised fingerprint. Highest security — cannot be lent, lost or copied. Used in high-security residential and corporate installations.
• GSM Dialler (Call-to-Open): Contains a SIM card. Authorised numbers call the dialler and the gate opens. Excellent for occasional access — workmen, delivery persons, family members. Works from any phone, anywhere in Kenya.
• Vehicle Loop Detector: Buried inductive loop under the driveway detects vehicle presence and opens the gate automatically — no remote needed. Common for exit lanes in commercial car parks.
• Number Plate Recognition (LPR): Camera reads vehicle number plates and opens the gate for registered vehicles. High-end solution for estate and corporate environments.

These systems can be combined — for example RFID for residents + keypad for regular staff + intercom for visitors is a common setup for apartment complexes in Nairobi.

A video intercom system comprises an outdoor call station at your gate (with a camera, microphone and speaker) and an indoor monitor (or smartphone app) inside your home or office. When a visitor arrives and presses the call button, you can see them on the monitor, speak with them, and press a button to open the gate — all without going to the gate.

Benefits of video intercoms in Kenya:

• Security: You can see who is at your gate before granting access — critical in Kenya's urban security environment.
• Convenience: No need to physically go to the gate to admit visitors. Particularly valuable in bad weather, at night, or for elderly and disabled residents.
• Record keeping: Many systems record video of all visitors, providing evidence in case of an incident.
• Remote access: App-enabled intercoms let you open your gate from anywhere in the world via smartphone — see your visitor in Nairobi while you are in Mombasa.

For Nairobi homes, we strongly recommend adding a video intercom to any gate automation installation. It transforms your gate from a convenience into a complete security system. We supply and install systems from Commax, Hikvision, DoorBird and other reputable brands.

RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) access control uses electromagnetic fields to read a unique code from a card, key fob or sticker. Here is how the system works for a gate:

• An RFID reader is mounted at the gate entrance (outside) and optionally inside for exit control.
• Each authorised user is issued a programmed RFID card or key fob containing a unique ID code.
• When the user taps their card/fob within 5–10cm of the reader, the reader reads the code and checks it against an authorised list in the controller.
• If authorised, the controller sends a signal to open the gate. If not on the list, access is denied and optionally an alert is generated.
• Access logs record every access event — who entered, at what time, which gate — providing an audit trail.

For apartment complexes and estates in Kenya, RFID systems work excellently — residents get cards, management can instantly cancel a card when a tenant leaves, and the system tracks all entry events. Cards can also be time-restricted (e.g. staff access only Monday–Friday 7am–6pm).

Yes — gate automation and CCTV integration is one of the most effective security combinations for Kenyan properties. Integration options include:

• Camera at gate entrance: A fixed IP or analogue camera records all vehicles and persons at the gate entrance — providing visual evidence to complement the access log.
• Gate trigger to CCTV: When the gate opens, a signal triggers the nearest CCTV camera to start recording and optionally pushes a live view to a mobile app or security monitor.
• Number plate recognition (LPR): A dedicated LPR camera reads number plates and can automatically open the gate for registered vehicles — or flag and alert on unregistered vehicles.
• Alarm integration: Gate opening outside authorised hours can trigger an alarm event, alerting you or a monitoring company.
• Unified app control: Advanced NVR systems allow gate control, CCTV live view and playback, and access control all from a single smartphone app.

We design and install integrated gate + CCTV + access control systems for homes, estates and commercial properties across Kenya. These complete security solutions are increasingly popular in Nairobi estates and gated communities.

We recommend the following maintenance schedule for gate automation systems in Kenya:

• Monthly (owner can do this): Apply silicone or lithium grease to the rack and pinion gear. Clear debris and dirt from the gate track and guide roller channel. Visually inspect for any loose bolts, bent rack sections or signs of unusual wear.
• Quarterly (owner can do this): Test battery backup by disconnecting mains and operating the gate on battery only. Test photo-eye safety sensors by interrupting the beam while the gate closes — it should stop and reverse. Wipe down sensor lenses with a dry cloth.
• Annually (professional service call): Full mechanical inspection — motor mounting, gear mesh, rack condition, limit switches, all fasteners. Electrical inspection — control board, wiring condition, connections, battery health test. Motor current draw test. Firmware update where applicable. Full safety feature re-test. Commissioning report provided.

High-cycle commercial gates (estates, offices, car parks) should have professional servicing every 6 months rather than annually. We offer annual maintenance contracts covering all professional service visits, priority call-out and discounted parts.

Yes — we repair and service all major gate motor brands regardless of who originally installed them. This is one of our most frequently requested services. Brands we regularly service and repair:

• Centurion Systems (D5, D5-Evo, D6, D10, D20, Vantage, all older models)
• FAAC (844, 741, 740, 390, 391, B680, B614)
• BFT (Deimos, Phobos, Igea, Mizar)
• CAME (BX-704, BX-78, FROG, ZL series)
• Nice (Hansa Drive 500, 600, 2500i, WIL series)
• ET Systems, Doorhan, Hysecurity, Linear
• Various Chinese and generic motors (we can advise on repair vs. replace)

We stock common spare parts — control boards, capacitors, transformers, limit switches, drive gears, rack sections, motor brushes, remote handsets and batteries. In many cases, we can repair your gate on the first visit. Same-day and next-day repair slots are available across Nairobi.

Do not panic — most sudden gate failures have simple causes. Follow this diagnostic sequence before calling a technician:

• Step 1 — Check mains power: Is there a power cut? Is the DB board breaker tripped? Reset the breaker and try again.
• Step 2 — Check battery: If there is a power cut and the battery is flat, the gate will not respond. The battery may need replacement.
• Step 3 — Check remote: Replace the remote battery (AA or AAA). Try operating from the keypad if fitted — if the gate responds to the keypad but not the remote, the issue is the remote, not the motor.
• Step 4 — Check for obstructions: Is something blocking the gate's travel path or the safety beam? Clear any debris and try again.
• Step 5 — Look for error lights: Many control boards flash an LED error code when a fault is detected. Count the flashes and refer to your manual, or WhatsApp us the flash pattern.
• Step 6 — Manual release: Use the manual release key (usually supplied with installation) to open the gate manually while you wait for repair.

If none of these steps resolve the issue, contact us — describe what the gate is (or isn't) doing, what the control board lights show, and when the fault started. This helps us diagnose remotely and bring the right parts for the first visit.

A gate that moves slowly, struggles or stops partway through its travel usually has one of these causes:

• Dry rack and pinion (most common): The gear rack has no lubricant — friction is causing the motor to labour. Apply silicone or lithium grease to the full length of the rack immediately.
• Debris in the track: Stones, dirt or leaves blocking the bottom guide roller or ground track are creating resistance. Clear the track completely.
• Worn or seized guide roller: The gate's bottom guide roller may be worn flat or seized. If the gate is dragging rather than rolling smoothly, the roller needs replacement.
• Low battery: A weak battery provides less current to the motor, causing slow movement — especially during power outages. Check battery condition.
• Gate misalignment: The gate may have shifted off the track or the top roller/guide has become loose, causing the gate to bind. The gate needs to be realigned.
• Motor force setting too low: The control board's force adjustment may have been set conservatively and needs re-calibration — particularly if the gate has become slightly heavier (new gate leaf additions, etc.).
• Worn motor brushes or gears: In older motors, internal wear causes reduced torque. A technician needs to inspect the motor internals.

Start with lubrication and track clearing — these resolve slow gate issues in over 60% of cases. If the problem persists after lubrication and clearing, contact us for a service call.

Remote control problems are very common and usually very simple to fix. Work through these checks in order:

• Replace the remote battery first: This resolves approximately 70% of remote problems. Use a quality alkaline battery — cheap batteries drain fast, especially in hot Kenyan weather.
• Check range: Does the remote work when you are very close to the gate but not from a distance? This indicates a weak battery, worn remote antenna, or interference from nearby structures or vehicles.
• Test with another remote: If you have a second remote, test it. If the second remote works, the first remote is faulty — not the motor.
• Check for radio interference: New structures, vehicles or electronic equipment near the gate can sometimes interfere with the remote signal.
• Check if the remote has been accidentally deleted from the motor's memory: Some control boards allow accidental remote deletion if certain button sequences are pressed. The remote needs to be re-programmed — we can guide you through this by phone.
• Test keypad (if fitted): If the keypad opens the gate but the remote doesn't, the issue is definitely the remote or its programming, not the motor.
• Physical damage: Check the remote for visible damage, cracked case or corroded battery contacts.

Replacement remotes for all major brands (Centurion, FAAC, BFT, CAME, Nice) are available from us — contact us with your motor brand and model for the correct replacement.