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When it comes to electric driveway gates, one of the most common questions we get is: how much do they actually cost to run? Well, we’re happy to say the answer is not much at all.
At North Valley Forge, we’ve been designing, manufacturing and installing electric gates for over 30 years. We always give our customers a clear picture of what to expect, not just during installation, but throughout the lifetime of your gate. So, if you’re thinking about investing in a set of electric gates and want to understand the ongoing costs, here’s a breakdown of what you need to know.
Energy use is minimal, even with regular use
Electric gates are incredibly energy-efficient. When they’re idle (which is most of the time), they typically use just 100 watts of standby power per day, that’s roughly 1.5p a day on your energy bill. When they open or close, they can draw up to 700 watts, but only for a few seconds at a time. Even if you open and close your gates 15 times a day, the average annual electricity cost is only around £15 to £16 – that’s less than the cost of running a kettle!
Of course, this can vary slightly depending on the type and size of your gates, how often they’re used, and the kind of motor they use. Overall, though, it’s a small price to pay for the security, convenience and kerb appeal electric gates provide.
Regular servicing keeps your gates in top shape
Electric gates are designed to be durable and reliable, but like any piece of equipment with moving parts, they benefit from a bit of care and attention now and then. Keeping on top of maintenance isn’t just about preventing breakdowns, it also helps extend the life of your gate, ensures it runs efficiently, and gives you peace of mind that everything is working safely.
A well-maintained system will be smoother, quieter and more responsive, and you’ll reduce the risk of costly callouts or unexpected repairs further down the line. Routine servicing is the simplest way to make sure your investment keeps performing as it should, year after year.
This usually includes:
- Checking the motor and mechanical parts for wear
- Testing the electronics and safety sensors
- Clearing debris from tracks or hinges
- Lubricating moving parts
For a residential property, a once-a-year service (give or take), is usually enough. If your gates are used more frequently, like at a block of flats or commercial site, we’d recommend a service every 6 months, or even quarterly in very busy environments. Depending on the type of gate system you have and the level of servicing required, this typically costs between £150 and £300 a year.
A few other things that can affect running costs
Beyond power and maintenance, there are a few additional considerations that can influence the long-term cost of owning electric gates. These don’t usually make a massive difference to your bills, but they’re still worth keeping in mind, especially if you’re planning a new installation. Factors like added features and even the weather can all impact the performance and longevity of your system, for instance:
- Extra features like gate lighting, intercoms, keypads or vehicle sensors can use a bit more electricity. It’s not usually a big increase, but if you’ve got several add-ons running all the time, it can slightly bump up your energy use.
- The weather can also have an effect. Strong winds, heavy rain, frost or even humidity can all take their toll on your gate system over time – especially if it hasn’t been properly protected. Things like pooled water or strong gusts can make the gate work harder than it needs to, which might lead to more wear and tear in the long run.
- The way your gate is installed makes a big difference. A professional installation, like the ones our experts carry out here at North Valley Forge, helps make sure everything runs smoothly and efficiently from the start. That means less strain on the motor, fewer issues later on, and better overall performance.
Want to know more? Just give us a call
If you’re still unsure what to expect when it comes to electric gate running costs, or you just want to know more about how they could work for your property, we’re always happy to help.
At North Valley Forge, we specialise in bespoke electric gates that are designed to last, whether that’s classic wrought iron or something more modern, our expert team can talk you through the options and help you make the right choice for your home.
Get in touch with our friendly team today on 01282 677300, or request a free brochure to see what’s possible. With over 30 years of experience, we’ll make sure you get a gate that looks the part and runs efficiently for years to come!
