Installing a security or driveway gate is crucial for property and business owners. However, like some others, you may be unsure about choosing the gate operating mechanism. Electric gates are standard, but solar-powered ones are also gaining popularity over time.
To make the right choice, analyze several key factors. These include sustainability, convenience, location, budget, and maintenance, among others. Above all, you will need to choose a reliable and professional entity offering customized gate installation services in your region. Get in touch with Evergreen Electric Gates NW fence contractor for more information.
Getting the basics right
An Electric-powered gate draws the power from the property’s electrical supply. It relies on a continuous flow of energy from the power grid. Such gates are ideal for high-traffic properties that require frequent opening and closing throughout the day.
Solar-powered gates, on the other hand, have photovoltaic panels that convert sunlight into energy. They need special batteries to store that energy. It is an off-grid setup running on solar energy.
The reality is that both systems support the same types of gates — swing, sliding, or cantilever. Nowadays, you can pair two types of gates with modern technologies, such as keypads, RFID, and mobile apps.
Installation and running costs – A key factor
Electric gates typically involve additional groundwork during installation. Therefore, you may need to allocate additional funds after covering the costs of trenching and wiring. The gate itself may not be expensive upfront, but the associated costs will add up over time.
Solar gate systems are relatively costlier to set up. You have to invest in the battery and solar panels. However, once it is up and running, the operational costs are almost non-existent.
Think of the weather conditions
University Place is known for cloudy skies and wet winters. You may think that it will hamper the functioning of a solar-powered gate. You can hire a professional contractor to perform the necessary tweaking. Deep-cycle batteries store excess energy on brighter days, allowing the gate to function on overcast days.
With an electric gate, this dependence on weather does not exist. However, in times of blackouts, these gates will fail unless a UPS system or generator is in place to provide backup power.
On average, go for solar gates if your property receives at least four hours of sunlight per day. Electric gates are more suitable for high-traffic scenarios, such as apartment complexes where the gate opens and closes multiple times a day.
Sustainability is a concern
If you, like many property owners in the Pacific Northwest, are embracing sustainable practices, investing in a solar gate is a sensible choice. They help bring down your carbon footprint by not relying on the grid and operating without emissions.
Making the best choice
For either type of gate, you must choose a suitable installation service provider. Ensure you select an entity with exceptional expertise in this segment. You can check their websites and clarify your queries before finalizing the deal. It is essential to verify the warranty coverage provided by such entities. Additionally, you should review their existing client testimonials.
