Troubleshooting Gate-Wont-Close

1. Check the Safety Photo Eyes

• Make sure both sensors are aligned and blinking solid.

• Clean the lenses — dirt, spider webs, grass clippings, or rainwater will block the beam.

• Ensure nothing is in the way: cars, trash cans, plants, or shadows.

2. Look for Obstructions on the Gate

• Check hinges, rollers, and tracks.

• Make sure nothing is blocking the gate’s movement (branches, rocks, toys, sand, shells in beach areas, etc.).

• For sliding gates: check the rack, chain, wheels, and ground track for debris.

3. Reset the Operator

• Turn power off, wait 10 seconds, turn it back on.

• Most LiftMaster/Viking/FAAC/DC systems need a hard reset after a sensor trip.

4. Check the Safety Loop System (if installed)

• If you have driveway loops, the gate may “think” a car is still sitting on the loop.

• Look for any blinking loop detector lights.

5. Low Battery or Power Issue

• Solar systems: batteries die easily and cause gates not to close.

• Hardwired systems: check breakers, GFCI outlets, and transformer power lights.

6. Motor or Arm Binding

• If the arm is hard to move manually, the motor may be binding or the hinges seized.

• Swing gates: inspect hinges and pivot points.

• Sliding gates: check wheel bearings and track alignment.

7. Control Board Error Light

• Different brands will show specific error flashes:

  • LiftMaster: red/amber sensor lights

  • Viking: “Status” LED flash patterns

  • FAAC / DoorKing: board codes

• Count the flashes to identify the error.

When to Call a Technician

If the gate still will not close after checking photo eyes and obstructions, the issue is likely:

• Bad photo eye

• Bad loop detector

• Bad battery

• Failing control board

• Limit switch out of position

• Motor overload or thermal shutdown

We service Tampa, St. Pete, Sarasota, Manatee, and the full Gulf Coast — I can turn this into a webpage, PPC ad, or troubleshooting PDF if you want.