Gate Opener Maintenance: Annual Checklist

Tropical Humidity and Salt Air Don't Play Nice

Kingston dust + salt from Portmore breeze = trouble if you skip cleaning. Every year, we see gates fail right before hurricane season because owners didn't maintain them. Don't be that person.

Before the Rainy Season: Your Gate Maintenance Checklist

✓ Visual Inspection (Monthly)

• Check for rust or corrosion on metal parts
• Look for water pooling near the motor or control box
• Listen for unusual grinding or squeaking sounds
• Test the gate manually — does it move smoothly?

✓ Cleaning (Quarterly)

• Wipe down the motor housing with a dry cloth
• Clear debris from the track or hinges
• Remove salt spray buildup with a soft brush
• Check drainage holes aren't blocked

✓ Electrical Check (Before Rainy Season)

• Inspect power cables for damage or exposed wiring
• Test the photocell sensors — they should stop the gate if blocked
• Check the backup battery (if installed) — is it holding charge?
• Verify surge protection devices are in place

✓ Mechanical Service (Annually)

• Lubricate hinges and moving parts (use marine-grade lubricant)
• Tighten bolts and fasteners
• Test limit switches — gate should stop at the right position
• Check for play or wobble in the gate frame

Why This Matters in Jamaica

Our climate is harsh on electronics. Salt air corrodes connections. Humidity causes short circuits. Power outages stress backup systems. A 30-minute maintenance visit now prevents a $3,000 emergency repair later.

When to Call a Professional

• Any visible corrosion on the motor
• Gate moving slower than usual
• Unusual noises or grinding
• Electrical components showing signs of water damage
• Battery backup not holding charge

Innovera's Rapid Response Plan includes scheduled maintenance visits. We'll handle the checklist so you don't have to. Schedule your pre-season maintenance before hurricane season starts — don't wait until your gate fails.