Lightning Protection for Gate Openers

One Good Lightning Strike Can Fry Your Whole Gate System

It happens every summer. A storm rolls through Kingston, a lightning bolt strikes nearby, and suddenly your $4,000 gate opener is dead. No power, no response, no way to open or close the gate. And if you're stuck outside during a downpour? That's a problem.

How Lightning Damages Gate Systems

Lightning doesn't have to hit your gate directly. A nearby strike creates a power surge that travels through electrical lines and fries sensitive electronics — the control board, the motor windings, the safety sensors.

• Direct Strike: Catastrophic damage. Motor and electronics destroyed.
• Nearby Strike (Induced Surge): Power surge travels through power lines, damaging control circuits.
• Ground Strike: Surge enters through grounding systems, affecting the entire installation.

The Cost Comparison: Protection vs. Replacement

• Surge protection device (TVSS): $300–$600
• Professional installation: $150–$300
• New motor after lightning strike: $2,500–$4,500
• New electronics: $800–$1,500

The math is simple: protect now or pay big later.

How to Protect Your Gate

1. Install a Surge Protection Device (TVSS)

A Transient Voltage Surge Suppressor sits between your power supply and the gate motor. It absorbs voltage spikes before they reach your equipment.

2. Proper Grounding

Your gate system must be properly grounded to dissipate electrical energy safely. This is not a DIY job — hire a licensed electrician.

3. Disconnect During Storms

If a major storm is approaching, consider disconnecting the gate system from power. Yes, it's inconvenient, but it's the safest option.

4. Invest in Brushless Technology

Innovera's Roger brushless systems are engineered with surge resilience in mind. The sealed design and digital control are less vulnerable to electrical spikes than traditional brush motors.

High-Risk Zones in Jamaica

Kingston Plains, Mandeville hills, and coastal areas (Montego Bay, Negril) experience more lightning activity. If you're in these zones, surge protection is non-negotiable.

What Innovera Recommends

Every new installation includes surge protection as standard. For existing gates, we offer retrofit surge kits. Add it to your next service visit — it's the cheapest insurance you'll ever buy.

Don't gamble with your gate. Call Innovera today to add surge protection to your system. One storm is all it takes.