Why Your Automatic Gate Won’t Close — And What to Check First

An automatic gate that won’t close is more than an inconvenience — it’s a security risk. Whether it’s a residential driveway gate or a commercial entrance, this is one of the most common service calls we see across Florida.

Before calling for service, here are a few things you can safely check.

1. Obstruction or Safety Sensor Issues

Most modern gates use photo eyes or safety loops to detect vehicles or objects.

• Dirt, spider webs, or salt buildup can block sensors

• Misaligned photo eyes can falsely detect an obstruction

• Landscaping growth can interfere with the gate path

📌 Tip: Gently clean the photo eyes and make sure nothing is blocking the gate’s travel.

2. Control Board or Operator Settings

Sometimes the gate is working precisely as programmed — just not how you expect.

• Timer-to-close may be disabled.

• Auto-close delay may be set too long

• A safety input may be stuck in “open” mode

These settings should only be adjusted by a trained technician to avoid damage or safety violations.

3. Weather & Florida Climate Damage

Florida’s heat, humidity, and salt air take a toll on gate systems.

• Corrosion on terminals or wiring

• Moisture inside the control box

• Swollen batteries or failing power supplies

This is why preventive maintenance is critical in coastal and Gulf-side communities.

4. Mechanical Resistance

If the gate senses resistance, it may refuse to close.

• Dry or seized hinges

• Track debris on sliding gates

• Warped gate frames

Lubrication and minor adjustments often solve this before major repairs are needed.

5. When to Call a Professional

If your gate:

• Starts closing, then reverses

• Beeps repeatedly

• Stays open randomly

• Works intermittently

…it’s time for a professional inspection. Continuing to cycle a malfunctioning gate can cause operator failure or costly board damage.

The Best Fix? Preventive Maintenance

Regular service keeps minor issues from turning into expensive repairs. A properly maintained gate:

• Lasts longer

• Operates smoother

• Fails less often

• Saves money long-term

If your gate hasn’t been serviced in over a year, today is the right time.

Need Help Today?If your automatic gate won’t close or is acting unpredictably, professional service can usually resolve the issue quickly and safely.

👉 Schedule a gate inspection or repair today 941-432-1394