Like a computer, a gate's control board can sometimes get itself in a muddle – after a power cut, a storm, or for no obvious reason. A simple power reset can clear it. Here's how to do it safely.
Before you reset
Check the obvious things first:
- Is anything blocking the gate or the photocells?
- Is the manual release locked in?
- Does the remote have a working battery?
See electric gate troubleshooting.
Resetting an Electric Gate After a Fault
Sometimes an automatic gate just needs a reset to get it working again, for example after a short power cut or when the motors have lost track of the gate's position. The safe way to do this is usually to turn the power off at the isolator, wait a minute, and turn it back on.
If the gate then runs a slow learning cycle, let it finish without interrupting it. Many systems need one full open and close to find their limits again.
When to Call an Engineer Instead
If a simple power reset doesn't work, stop there. Please don't press reset or learn buttons on the control board or change any settings, as that can wipe the travel and force settings that keep the gate safe.
AutoGate Carlisle can diagnose the fault, reset the system properly and force test the gate afterwards. We work on all the major brands, whoever installed them.
How to do a power reset
- Find the isolator switch for the gate. It's normally a switch on a post or wall near the gate, or in the garage or house.
- Switch it off. Make sure nobody's near the gate.
- Wait about a minute. This lets the control board fully power down.
- Switch it back on.
- Stand clear and operate the gate with the remote. Watch it through a full open and close.
What to expect
After a reset, many gates:
- move slowly on the first cycle while they find their open and closed positions
- may go a little further than usual the first time
That's normal. After a cycle or two it should be back to normal. If it isn't, call me.
When a reset isn't the answer
Don't keep resetting if:
- the gate trips the electrics when it's switched on – there's a fault
- there's a burning smell or visible damage
- the gate behaves dangerously – moving on its own or not stopping
- it works for a while and then stops again
Switch off at the isolator, use the manual release if you need to, and get in touch.
What not to do
Some control boards have their own reset or "learn" buttons. Please don't press them or open the control box – that resets the gate's travel and force settings, which then need setting up and testing properly.
Gate still not right? Call or WhatsApp Adrian on 07854 037752.
Questions people ask me
How do I reset my electric gate?
Switch it off at the isolator, wait a minute, switch it back on, and run it through a full cycle while standing clear.
Why does my gate move slowly after a reset?
It's finding its open and closed positions again. It should return to normal after a cycle or two.
Where's my gate's isolator switch?
Normally on a post or wall near the gate or control box, or in a garage or utility room. Your installer should have shown you.