Blackouts and automatic gates: how do you open them?

This problem should not be underestimated. How do I open my automatic gate if there is a blackout? Click here to find out how to open your gate even when there is no electricity!
Blackouts and automatic gates or doors: what’s the best course of action?
Tips from LIFE to help you avoid trouble and get yourself out of unforeseen situations

You’re in your car and are about to leave the garage when a large thunderstorm suddenly breaks out and the power goes out. What should you do?
It would be a real problem if the up-and-over door and gate of your house were automatic and, in an emergency situation, this could become extremely serious.

This is why it is crucially important for all motors to be fitted with a release mechanism so that the automatic gates can always be moved, even during a blackout or a breakdown in the electric system; and it is just as important that the gate or door can be opened manually.
To provide you with an additional guarantee of total safety and complete peace of mind, LIFE 24 V motors have a built-in emergency battery which can keep the automatic gate operating for several hours, even when there is a temporary electricity failure for a fairly long period of time.

Another issue which might seem irrelevant, but is actually extremely important in a critical situation, has to do with the storage of the key.
Upon installation, the gate engineer will give the homeowner at least one copy of the release key to open the box where the motor control mechanism is housed. It is extremely important to keep this key in a place that is easy to find. Another excellent idea is to label it so that it can be easily distinguished from another key. You will usually need this key in urgent situations or when you are in a rush, so it should always be readily accessible.
If you realise that you don’t have this type of key, don’t hesitate to contact a professional gate installer right away!

Another important piece of advice for handling unforeseen situations in total safety involves the safety and reactivity of family members who might find themselves stuck in the house, unable to open their gate or garage during a power failure or electricity breakdown.
The motor release mode, and hence the possibility of manually opening our gates, up-and-over or sectional doors, may vary from one automation system to another. To put it simply, the release mechanism is located in a different position on the various kinds of gates or doors, but is normally quite easy to access.

It is therefore important to ensure that all family members are informed on how to release the automation system and get outside. This is not a difficult operation, but it should be made absolutely clear so that we are not unprepared when unforeseen events occur.

Long-lasting performance levels with LIFE

However, regardless of unforeseeable circumstances such as blackouts, it is always a good idea to keep our automation systems in good working order by having a professional installer to perform maintenance on the system. This is essential for always having a reliable and long-lasting mechanism.
The device inside the mechanism must be always well lubricated and clean to preserve its good condition: even serious faults can be prevented with just a few simple steps, such as regular cleaning. This can be done using an ordinary brush to remove insects, leaves and other dirt that accumulate over time.
We reiterate the importance of contacting a professional to perform these operations, for safety reasons.

All you need is some basic care and your LIFE automation systems will reward you with consistent performance levels over time, coupled with resistance and durability. These qualities reflect the meticulousness and technical expertise with which we manufacture our products.

Because we are driven by a rather simple desire: complete customer satisfaction.