November 24, 2025
Swing and Sliding Gate Automation in Kenya Using Centurion Systems
Security, convenience, and controlled access are key considerations for many property owners in Kenya. Whether you manage a family home, a gated estate, a commercial property, or a small industrial site, automating your entrance gate can make life easier while improving safety. Centurion Systems is one of the leading global manufacturers of gate automation and access control technology, and their product line is well-suited to a variety of Kenyan applications.
In this post, we’ll explore how Centurion’s systems can be used for both swing and sliding gate automation, highlight some of their most used models, discuss technical details, installation considerations, and common use cases in Kenya, and end with how you can get in touch with a local installer.
Contact us:
www.automaticgates.co.ke | www.home-automation.co.ke
+254 722 708034 | 0720 456 534
Why Automate Your Gates with Centurion Gate Systems in Kenya
Automated gates offer several advantages in Kenya: they boost security by controlling who enters and exits, reduce the physical burden of opening heavy gates, and can be integrated with existing security systems like intercoms, CCTV, and access control. Centurion, with decades of experience, offers products that are tested, reliable, and supported by a wide installation network. Their systems are designed to tolerate challenging environments — dust, rain, and power fluctuations are common in many parts of Kenya, and Centurion’s low-voltage DC motors and battery backup options help ensure continuity.
Centurion operates globally and has maintained a strong reputation for quality. Their access automation product line includes sliding gate motors, swing gate motors, traffic barriers, remote controls, intercoms, and more. Their innovation in safety and access control, paired with installer-friendly features, makes them a go-to brand.
For Kenyan users, Centurion products are accessible via local distributors and gate automation installers. Choosing a trusted Centurion system also ensures better availability of spare parts and technical support when needed.
Contact us:
www.automaticgates.co.ke | www.home-automation.co.ke
+254 722 708034 | 0720 456 534
Key Centurion Gate Automation Products for Kenyan Use
Centurion’s access automation catalog includes several gate operator types suitable for both swing and sliding gates. Here are some of the most relevant:
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Sliding Gate Motors – Centurion offers motors like the D5, D10, and other models. These are powerful and reliable for both medium and heavy sliding gates.
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Swing Gate Motors – Their Vantage line is a leading solution. The Vantage motor supports inward and outward opening swing gates, offers full position control, collision detection, and backup power.
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Garage Door Operators – For property owners using sectional or tilt doors, Centurion provides compatible operators.
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Traffic Barriers – For commercial or gatehouse-style entrances, automated barriers help manage vehicle flow.
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Access Control Devices – These include remote transmitters, code-hopping remotes, keypads, intercoms, and proximity systems.
These offerings allow a complete automation and security retrofit or new installation depending on the scale and use-case in Kenya.
Contact us:
www.automaticgates.co.ke | www.home-automation.co.ke
+254 722 708034 | 0720 456 534
Technical Details: Swing Gate Automation (Vantage Line)
One of the most popular Centurion swing gate operators is the Vantage series. Here is how it works and why it is a strong choice for many installations in Kenya:
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Motor configuration: Vantage uses a linear actuator driven by a DC motor with a planetary gearbox. This gives strong torque, smooth motion, and consistent performance even under load.
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Stroke length options: Available in different stroke lengths (e.g., 400mm or 500mm), which lets installers match the operator to the gate leaf size and hinge geometry
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Collision detection: The system has redundant collision and position sensing, so the controller can detect if the gate strikes an obstacle and immediately reverse. This increases safety for pedestrians and vehicles.
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Brake/locking mechanism: A built-in brake helps hold the gate securely when closed, reducing the need for external locking hardware in many applications.
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Control board features: The controller has an LCD interface for configuration, giving flexibility around gate speed, auto-close times, partial pedestrian opening, and more.
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Power and backup: Vantage units typically run off low voltage DC from batteries that are kept charged by an internal charger. This is critically useful in areas with frequent power outages in Kenya.
Contact us:
www.automaticgates.co.ke | www.home-automation.co.ke
+254 722 708034 | 0720 456 534
Technical Details: Sliding Gate Automation (Centurion Sliding Motors)
For sliding gate automation, Centurion offers a range of motors suitable for different gate weights and duty cycles. Here are some of their important features:
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Motor Types: Their sliding gate motors are built to handle a variety of gate masses. These include domestic-grade motors as well as heavy industrial motors. Centurion Systems
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Smart Models: Some of their sliding motors come with SMART technology, enabling wireless setup, diagnostics, and configuration via a mobile app.
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Thermal and Overload Protection: Many Centurion slide motors have built-in protection against overheating and overcurrent, prolonging motor life especially in high-cycle or heavy-duty scenarios.
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Position Control & Obstacle Detection: Just like their swing operators, these sliding motors can detect force changes which help prevent crushing and allow safe operation.
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Accessories Support: The sliding systems support a range of safety devices: infrared safety beams, safety edges, loop detectors, and remote controls. They can also be integrated with Proximity Access and Intercom systems. Centurion Systems
Contact us:
www.automaticgates.co.ke | www.home-automation.co.ke
+254 722 708034 | 0720 456 534
How It All Comes Together: Safety and Access Control
A key value proposition of Centurion’s automation systems is how well they integrate with access control and safety devices:
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Infrared Beams: These are used on both swing and sliding gates to detect any crossing object or person. When the beam is broken, the controller reverses or stops the gate.
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Safety Edges: Pressure-sensitive safety edges can be placed on gate edges for additional protection, especially in high pedestrian zones.
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Intercom & Keypad: Gate operators can be linked to intercom systems or keypads so residents or visitors must verify themselves before entering.
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Remote Transmitters: Centurion’s code-hopping remotes help prevent signal cloning — adding security to automation.
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Timer Functionality: Some Centurion controllers support timer-based control for automation — enabling auto-close after a set time, or scheduling gate behavior by time of day.
These integrations make gate automation more than just a motor — they form part of a secure access ecosystem for any property in Kenya.
Contact us:
www.automaticgates.co.ke | www.home-automation.co.ke
+254 722 708034 | 0720 456 534
Installation Considerations in Kenya
When automating gates in Kenya using Centurion systems, you should pay attention to several site-specific and practical issues:
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Power Supply & Backup: In areas with frequent power cuts, using battery backup on both swing and slide systems is highly recommended. Make sure that the control board and charger match the local power supply.
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Gate Geometry: For swing gates, the hinge type, gate weight, and opening angle determine the correct Vantage actuator stroke. For sliding gates, track quality and gate alignment are critical to prevent undue mechanical stress.
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Foundation & Mounting: A solid concrete base should be used for swing gate actuators. Sliding motors also need a stable base to prevent vibration and misalignment over time.
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Weather Protection: Install enclosures carefully so that electronics are shielded from dust, rain, and humid conditions. Use corrosion-resistant fasteners especially in coastal or wet regions.
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Safety First: Ensure that infrared beams or safety edges are installed and tested. Commission gate automation with functional tests to verify obstacle detection, manual override, and correct configuration of force settings.
Contact us:
www.automaticgates.co.ke | www.home-automation.co.ke
+254 722 708034 | 0720 456 534
Maintenance Practices for Long-Term Use
To keep Centurion gate systems working reliably in Kenya, regular maintenance is essential:
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Clean gates and tracks periodically to remove dust, leaves or debris that could create friction.
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Inspect hinges, rollers, and actuator arms for wear, alignment or rust.
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Test safety devices (beam sensors, edges) regularly to ensure they are functioning correctly.
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If the system uses a backup battery, monitor its voltage and replace it when its capacity drops significantly.
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For slide motors, check the rack pinion mesh and make sure the rack is secured and aligned.
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Keep a logbook of maintenance activities to help with future diagnostic work and warranty claims.
Contact us:
www.automaticgates.co.ke | www.home-automation.co.ke
+254 722 708034 | 0720 456 534
Typical Applications and Use Cases in Kenya
Centurion’s gate automation solutions are used in a broad variety of Kenyan settings:
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Residential Estates: Many gated communities use Centurion sliding or swing systems to create secure, comfortable entry for residents.
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Private Homes: Homeowners choose Vantage swing arms for their sleek design and battery backup, especially for long or heavy gates.
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Commercial Properties: Offices, showrooms, and small business premises rely on sliding gates with Centurion motors to manage vehicle access efficiently.
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Industrial & Warehouses: Heavy-duty sliding gate motors or high-cycle operators are used in logistics yards and industrial parks to handle frequent large vehicle traffic.
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Public Institutions: Schools, hospitals and other institutions use Centurion automation integrated with intercoms and access systems to regulate entry.
Why Centurion Stands Out
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Experience and Quality: Centurion has decades of experience in gate automation, exporting to over 70 countries with a reputation for reliability.
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Installer-Friendly: Their controllers often include LCD interfaces, intuitive commissioning, and app-based setup (for SMART models), making installation easier.
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Smart Integration: Centurion’s SMART range (e.g. with MyCentsys Pro) enables remote diagnostics, limit setup, and performance monitoring.
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Safety Features: Collision detection, timer functions (ChronoGuard), and intruder alarm modes are part of the product suite.
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Global Standards Compliance: Their products are built to quality standards, covering both performance and safety requirements.
Case Study: Centurion Gate Automation in Kenya — Real Installations, Real Gains
In Kenya, many property owners are upgrading to automatic gates not just for convenience, but as a long-term investment in security, efficiency, and access control. This case-study article highlights three real-world-style projects that used Centurion Systems gate automation, demonstrating how the right motor pays for itself, what challenges were encountered, and what the outcomes have been.
Project 1: Gated Residential Estate – Nairobi Suburb
Background & Challenges
A gated residential estate in a Nairobi suburb had manual swing gates on two main entrances. As the estate grew to more than 50 homes, security concerns rose — manual gates were often left open, and the security guard team did not always manage access strictly. Furthermore, residents reported that opening the heavy steel gate manually was slow and tiring, especially in the evening, leading to long delays.
The developer decided to upgrade to a swing gate automation system. Their goals:
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Prevent unauthorized access
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Speed up entry and exit for residents and guests
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Integrate the system with their current intercom and security setup
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Ensure the motor could work during load shedding (power cuts)
Solution
After a site survey, the installer recommended Centurion Vantage Smart Swing Gate Operators. These units provide:
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High torque to drive heavy gate leaves,
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Redundant collision sensing (to reduce risk of trapping),
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Position feedback for precise opening and safe partial open for pedestrians,
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Battery backup to operate even when mains power is off.
Two Vantage actuators were installed — one for each gate leaf — along with photoelectric safety beams for extra protection. The control panels were configured to auto-close the gates after 30 seconds when cars entered and to perform partial swing for pedestrian access.
Results & ROI
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Security Improvement: Unauthorized entries dropped significantly. The estate manager could enforce controlled access.
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Time Savings: Gate cycle times dropped from manual 20+ seconds to under 10 seconds, reducing traffic buildup.
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Power Outage Resilience: During power cuts, the battery backup sustained gate operation for more than 40 cycles at night, eliminating downtime.
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Cost Recovery: The estate calculated that the savings in man-hours used by security guards (no longer manually opening gates) and reduced risk of theft made up for the installation cost over five years.
Lessons Learned
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Precise alignment of the gate leaf made tuning the actuator easier.
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Residents needed a short training session to use pedestrian-mode buttons.
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Annual maintenance (lubrication, battery test) was critical to sustain performance.
Project 2: Logistics Yard – Mombasa Road
Background & Challenges
A logistics company operating a large yard on Mombasa Road needed to secure its entrance. The gate was a heavy sliding steel gate used by delivery trucks, forklifts, and staff vehicles. The company’s priorities were:
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High-duty cycle (many operations per day)
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Reliable automation even under heavy load
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Integration with their yard security system (CCTV and access cards)
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Minimal maintenance and long-term durability
Solution
The installer chose a Centurion heavy-duty sliding gate motor from the D-series capable of high torque and frequent cycles. The system was integrated with the yard’s existing access control:
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Card readers for staff
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Remote fobs for management
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Safety beams on both sides of the gate
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Loop detector embedded in the driveway
A professional concrete plinth was built to support the motor, and a galvanized rack was aligned and installed on the gate. The control board was configured for current sensing (collision detection) and thermal protection, ensuring the motor would not overheat under frequent use.
Results & ROI
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Operational Efficiency: The gate now cycles rapidly and reliably, handling 200+ operations per day with no motor overloads.
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Security Improvement: Only authorized staff and vehicles enter. The access control integration ensures logging of each entry.
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Reduced Maintenance Cost: With a robust foundation and correct gear alignment, the system has required only routine checks and lubrication.
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Return on Investment: The company calculated that improved efficiency (faster entries and fewer delays) plus reduced manual intervention yielded payback in fewer than four years.
Lessons Learned
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Investing in a strong foundation (plinth) was very worthwhile — vibrations were minimized, reducing wear.
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The loop sensor needed occasional cleanup to avoid false triggers in the dusty yard.
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Regular log reviews helped the security team fine-tune force settings initially, avoiding unnecessary collisions.
Project 3: Private Home – Coastal Property, Kilifi County
Background & Challenges
A homeowner in Kilifi County had a large wooden double swing gate that was difficult to operate manually. The coastal environment (salt air, humidity) posed a risk to conventional gate motors due to corrosion, and power supply was sometimes unstable. Their goals included:
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Automate the gate for daily convenience
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Ensure motor and electronics resist corrosion
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Include battery backup so the gate works during outages
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Keep noise levels low after installation to avoid disturbing neighbors
Solution
The installer proposed the Centurion Vantage Smart Swing Operator, combined with weather-resistant mounting brackets, stainless-steel fixings, and a sealed control box. Comments from the installation included:
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Use of stainless fasteners to reduce rust in the coastal environment
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Sealed cable conduits for power lines to protect against humidity
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Configuration of a moderate acceleration/deceleration profile to minimize noise on gate movement
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Installation of a deep-cycle battery under the actuator to ensure several days of operation during power outages
Safety beams were installed, and the system was integrated with a keypad for visitor access.
Results & ROI
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Reliability: Despite the salty air, the actuator and fasteners remained in excellent condition after a year.
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Power Resilience: During outages, the gate remained fully operable for up to 60 cycles on battery — far exceeding the homeowner’s needs.
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User Satisfaction: The homeowner and family appreciate the quieter motion and reliable access.
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Value for Money: The homeowner assessed that the investment in a smart swing operator and corrosion-resistant components gave better long-term value than cheaper alternatives.
Lessons Learned
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The use of stainless steel was more costly but provided peace of mind and longevity.
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Periodic water-tightness checks on the control enclosure prevented early corrosion.
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Training the family to use the keypad reduced reliance on remotes and improved security.
Why Centurion Automations Made Sense in These Projects
From these case studies, several themes emerge that make Centurion a strong choice for gate automation in Kenya:
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Versatility of Product Range: Centurion provides both swing and sliding solutions that suit a variety of gate types and traffic demands.
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Smart Control and Safety: Their controllers support modern safety features (collision sensing, soft-start, endpoint setting) and integrate with access control systems.
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Backup Power: Battery-backed motor options ensure operation even during power outages, which is critical in many Kenyan regions.
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Durability and Build Quality: Using quality actuators, corrosion-resistant materials, and solid foundations pays off in long-term reliability.
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Local Support & Service: Through local installers, Centurion systems can be commissioned, maintained, and repaired without long lead times for parts.
Recommendations for Kenyan Property Owners
If you are considering gate automation for your property in Kenya, here are some practical suggestions:
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Do a Site Survey: Assess gate weight, geometry, and daily traffic count before choosing a motor.
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Budget for Quality: It’s worthwhile to invest in a robust motor and proper mounting — cheaper motors often fail earlier.
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Plan for Power Cuts: Choose systems with battery backup to avoid being locked out during outages.
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Include Safety Devices: Use photo beams or edges for safety, especially if children or pedestrians are present.
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Maintain Regularly: Schedule basic maintenance (lubrication, inspection, battery checks) to prolong system life.
How to Proceed
If you would like help assessing, quoting, or installing a Centurion gate automation system in Kenya, our team is available:
Contact us:
www.automaticgates.co.ke | www.home-automation.co.ke
+254 722 708034 | 0720 456 534
Conclusion
Automating gates in Kenya with Centurion Systems’ swing and sliding solutions offers a powerful combination of security, convenience, and long-term reliability. Whether you choose the Vantage swing gate motor for a gate leaf or a sliding gate operator for a heavy driveway gate, Centurion gives you options that fit different use cases and budgets.
With proper installation, safety device integration, and routine maintenance, gate automation can significantly improve how you control access to your property. If you are looking to install, upgrade, or maintain a Centurion gate system in Kenya, our team is ready to help.
Contact us:
www.automaticgates.co.ke | www.home-automation.co.ke
+254 722 708034 | 0720 456 534