Having installed an Auto Gate by Jeni
For some, it is for convenience, while others think it as a security measure. Whatever the reason, auto gate systems are now as common as cars in almost every middle-class urban homes; although majority of them are still from the more well-off groups. And until recently, I have joined them as another urban home with auto gate system.
In truth, my reasons are rather flimsy when I decided to install one. I was just fed up with getting wet in the rain while I open the gates to drive my car in, then braving the rain once more to lock it shut. Now I only have to click the control, wait for the gate to open, drive in then click it close, without getting out of my car.
However, it is later that I realized its security advantages. I didn't realize how I had jeopardized my safety each time I left my car running while I get out to open the gate. Someone could have hijacked my car or just barge in my house while I open the gate! And since auto gates work n electric, with their system, I can actually use it to strengthen my home’s security features.
These are some of the benefits which I believe have led to most people installing one, other than the luxury of having one. However, I have also encountered a few hassles. Auto gates, for one, don’t usually work manual. Once, my control ran out of batteries, and I had to wait out for my sister to come home and open the gate because I couldn’t open it manually. Perhaps I should had it programmed from the start. Or get a spare remote.
And despite it being a strong security defense, it is not foolproof 100% Intruders can still tamper with the motor mechanism and get in, or they can just climb over. For the cost itself, it actually depends. Mine cost around RM2K, swing gate, average width, but prices are usually determined by these factors:
- width of gate
- type (swing or slide)
- mechanical unit (motor gears or hydraulic, the latter more expensive)
- gate's material (aluminum the most expensive, I think)
Thus, prices can range from the cheapest (most guaranteed to be problematic) RM1K+, to the most expensive foreign brands up to RM9K+, depending on which one you want. Not to mention maintenance, and the fees for repairs in between when they broke down, and how often. However, most will probably just change a new gate after the old one broke down, rather than spend a sum to repair it.
Using trustworthy brands or expertise from trustworthy companies may help. Paxter Security, Auto Gates Snd. Bhd., WestMark are some of the brands friends have mentioned, or I have found in forums. And all are Selangor-based or KL-based.
So far, my auto gate is still working, and seems to be working fine. Hopefully it will last for the next 10 years, or at least within warranty date.
http://www.estate123.com/residence/reviews_articles/article_review_detail.aspx?a_id=7A
After reading about the frustration you have experienced, I would expect the irresponsible company to be HOME ALARM too. My bad experience is similar to your. Here it goes:
- end of 2004, changed the autogate swing arm type, even asked for a better quality and had paid higher price
- less than one month, the motherboard broke down and it happened during the 2005 CNY and nobody came to service even after the 10 days of the new year.
- finally they came and changed after some quarrellings with the staff. Was without the convenience of autogate for about a month.
- within that year of warranty, the system had broke down at least three times, each time, the mother board was changed.
- the last time of service, they even disconnect the wall control accidentally, and until today after many time calling, no body turned up to repair their blunder made. We paid for the price of their blunder by not having the convenience of opening the gate using the wall control.
- FYI, those workers are not engineers and they are just plain experienced work force.
- tonite, 20070308 the system broke again, after two years and I am looking for a reliable company to replace the system. Any recommendation?
Auto Gate Problem
Posted on July 25, 2006
I bought an auto gate last month and today when I reached home I found that after open my auto gate and it cannot be closed
I tried and tried but stil no luck. After that I smell something weird, I saw smoke came out from the auto gate motor. Immediately I switch off my auto gate power supply and use the auto gate battery to closed my gate. I called my supplier and he said he will arrange someone check for me and arrange for me. I hope he can promise and check for me ASAP. Anyway my auto gate is still under warranty. How can a product less than 2 month old get problem so fast. Too bad!
These are powered by an electrical motor and various manufacturer claims theirs are durable and proven. The price varies from 1900-00 to 9000-00 depending on size of gates and opening type.
However, like all mechnical and electrical parts ,they are subjected to misuse ,external weather and their life span.
I had the experience of spending 8000-00 to install the so call best in 1995, the brand was Duragate and they boast of 100000 times opening and closing revolution. Well it served well for 2 years and after the third year, things fall apart. when you press remote control unit , one leaf opens halfway and all sorts of hassle. I called for service and was told that the remote unit have changed to a more upgraded unit ,pay 150-00 per unit and adjustment to circuit board.
one year later, hydraulic unit embeded in concrete failed, reason water leak in to motor. It was supposed to be waterproof. Called Company and was told technician left company. Call technician and he now on his own and explained that all Auto Gates mechanically and electrically operated are similar with exception of types of motor used.
In short , the technology is so common that better to purchase a local made unit 'Radient" costing 2300-00 swing type than others. His explanation , if give trouble change cos there is no such thing as mechanical motor or electrical parts that last forever. I did and now it has been working for more than 3 years.
So today like aircond units and T.V. , do not buy expensive units, if spoilt change. they are so cheap that it is not worth repairing.
25-02-2006, 12:54 PM
Within 3 months, I've had 2 breakdowns plus the inconvenience of going back to manual opening for at least 2 weeks.
In case any of you are thinking of installing this particular brand, think twice and then think a few more times again.
This is not a cheap unit so one do not expect it to break down so many times! Some may say autogate is a luxury item, but with the high crime rate around this area, at least it provides additional security feature for the family, where one don't have to get down from the car to open and close the gate.
Plus an additional word of advice... Make sure you know the installer and the dealer is not some fly-by-night small-timer. I made the mistake by listening to a reputable CIDB Class C electrical contractor who introduced this dealer to me. I did not check him up thoroughly. So make sure you KNOW who you'll be dealing with!
Posted on behalf of HO W.L. (A USJ Resident)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------- So, folks pls take note!