How to Install an Automatic Gate Opener in 7 Steps
With a bit of skill, you can add an automatic opener to transform any existing gate
- Spirit level gauge
- Pencil
- Power drill
- Clamps
- Automatic gate opener kit
- Screws
- Bolts
Gates make your yard more secure, deterring intruders from wandering onto your property without permission. With gate opener installation, you can add an automatic opener to any gate. Your heavy gate that was once a pain to open will now open with the push of a button. The installation is simple enough to DIY, so follow this guide to complete your gate opener project.
Driveway gates add value and security to your home. To maximize your ROI, consider contacting a pro for this project.
Prepping to Install a Gate Opener
As you start planning your project, take the following steps to prepare.
Choose the Right Gate Opener
As you shop, you’ll find a variety of automatic gate styles and gate openers sold with additional features that make life more convenient. Some of these include:
Remote control: Allows you to open and close your gate from a distance
Solar panel: Reduce energy costs by powering your opener with sunlight
Timer: Sets your gate to open and close at set times each day
Safety reverse: Stops your gates from closing if they make contact with something
Heat sensor: Sends you an alert if your device is overheating
Prepare Your Gate
Installing an automatic gate opener only works if a gate is centered and level. If you have two gates, they need to hang evenly. Check this using a spirit level gauge. Your gate should swing freely to open and close, and you should place your opener where it won't block normal traffic flow.
Unbox Your Kit
Before installing your new gate opener kit, unbox it and ensure it contains mounting brackets, clamps, bolts, screws, a controller box, and a gate opener arm. Solar-powered openers should also come with a small solar panel and battery box. There should also be a manual inside with step-by-step instructions for how to install your automatic gate opener and how to troubleshoot issues.
Connect and Test the Automatic Opener
Photo: โทวสิษฐ์ คงทน / Adobe StockYour gate opener will open and close your gate with an actuator arm. The arm mounts to your existing gate door and swings the gate by lengthening and withdrawing a motorized bar.
Before attaching your new gate opener to the gate, test it to ensure it functions properly. Plug the actuator arm into the controller box, then connect the controller box to a power source. Visualize where and how the opener will sit on your gate.
Install the Mounting Brackets
Mark a level pencil line in the center of your gate post where you’ll install the opener. You'll do this on both sides if you install openers on two gates.
If installing an automatic gate opener on a wooden post, pre-drill holes to mount your brackets with the screws provided. Then mount your brackets in place on these center lines, matching them to each other. Otherwise, you’ll likely be bolting your brackets tightly to a metal gate post.
Install the Gate Opener Arm
Attach your actuator arm to the mounting brackets with the bolts provided. The mouth of the arm should be designed to hold the gate securely and may simply bolt on. Ensure all brackets and clamps are tightly attached to the gate and posts.
Install the Controller Box
Use your drill and screws to attach your controller box to the gate post. Your controller box may come with additional brackets if it clamps directly to a metal gate post.
Attach and Connect the Power Supply
Photo: tomfotorama / Adobe StockWire your gate arm or arms to the controller box using whatever wire connectors or junction boxes come with your device kit. Be sure not to cross any red and white wires.
If using a battery box or solar panel power supply, you'll need to attach these to your gate post the same way you installed the controller box. Once everything is in place, connect your controller box to your power supply. Your gate opener is now ready to run!
Adjust the Controller Box Settings
Open the controller box and calibrate your gate's open and close limits. If your device contains a timer or other features, you can set them up now.
Test the Automatic Gate Opener
Photo: JacZia / Adobe StockUse your gate opener's controller box, keypad, or remote control to make sure it opens and closes how you want it to.
DIY Gate Opener Installation vs. Hiring a Pro
DIY installation for an automatic gate opener can take up to five hours and usually just involves closely following the manual that comes with your device. It's a relatively simple project for handy homeowners, but doing it as a DIY can void your product’s warranty. Keep in mind that electrical work also comes with the risk of electric shock, and improper installation can damage your gate motor. If you have any uncertainties about doing it yourself, it’s best to hire a pro.
You can hire a local gate installer for about $100 per hour, usually with a two-hour minimum. A more complicated device might cost $1,500 to $3,000 to have installed. This cost may be worth ensuring that your gate opener installation goes smoothly. And, since driveway gates add value to homes and come with an ROI of around 50%, this can help make your investment worthwhile while also adding convenience to your property.
If you install a gate opener yourself but have problems with the alignment or connections, a pro can help you correct the issue.
It can cost $100 to $500 to purchase and install a gate opener. You can use ready-made kits that come with DIY instructions. If you hire a professional gate installer to handle the job, expect to pay an average of $100 per hour or between $200 and $500.
No, you can’t use a garage door opener as a gate opener. Automatic garage door openers and automatic gate openers serve similar functions and may even operate similarly via remote control; however, they aren’t interchangeable. Garage door openers aren’t intended for outdoor use and can’t withstand exposure to the elements.
Yes, you can convert manual gates to electric operation. Installing a motor and an opening device from a kit allows you to convert any gate so it can open and close automatically. Be sure to buy the correct type of opener for your gate style. For example, some openers are specific to swinging gates, while others are for sliding gates. Get familiar with your swinging or sliding gate parts before you go shopping to avoid having to return to the store for the correct opener.
Electric gates can be forced open if someone applies enough force to the edge furthest from the mounting bracket. You can reduce this risk by adding an electric lock to your gate opener. However, automatic gate openers generally help deter intruders, especially when paired with outdoor lighting and security cameras. Other home security tips include trimming trees surrounding the area for added visibility and installing motion sensors in your yard.
A traditional driveway gate isn’t your only option when installing a barricade in front of your driveway. A security gate like a swing gate, double swing gate, bi-folding gate, vertical gate, or pivot gate could work just as well as your driveway gate—if not better for your home depending on which qualities you’re after. Like sliding driveway gates, many of these alternatives work with automatic features that simplify entering and exiting your property.
