Can Gate Motors Work Off Solar Power?
If you have a gate that needs to be automated but you don’t have a power supply nearby, you might be wondering if you can use solar power.
The question “can gate motors work off solar power” is actually more common than you think, and, as with most things fence and gate-related, the answer is complicated. Here’s what you need to know.
Can Gate Motors Work Off Solar Power?
The short, simple answer is yes. The longer answer is that it depends a lot on the type of gate, the type of gate motor, and the climate you’re in.
Since solar panels generate power, if you have the right size and type of solar panels for the gate motor you’re trying to connect, they could power the gate – in theory.
In practice, it depends a lot on how your panels are installed, whether they’re angled correctly, how much power your gate motor or gate operator needs and whether you have any peripheral equipment.
What Do You Need to Run a Gate Motor Off Solar Power?
There are several things you will probably need to power your gate motor using solar panels, including:
- A mounting post – solar panels need to be carefully installed to catch as much sunlight as possible. They’re usually installed on a tall post so that they aren’t in shadow and to make it harder to tamper with them.
- Solar panels – these should be the right size to generate the wattage needed to power your gate. You will need to know the specifications for the gate motor to ensure you get the right panel or panels.
- An invertor – some gate motors can operate off DC, but others require AC, and if yours does, you might need an inverter.
- A deep cycle battery – you always need something to store solar power so that when the sun is not shining, your equipment will still have the power it needs to work.
In some parts of the world, gate automation suppliers might have solar power options for their gate motors, but in others, you might need to buy solar panels and equipment separately from an electrical supplier.
Who Can Install Solar Power for a Gate Motor?
Again, this depends a lot on where you are and what the local fence contractors and gate automation specialists do. In some parts of the world, where gate motors are frequently installed with solar power, a gate automation contractor might be able to install the whole system for you.
In other parts of the world, you might need to hire an electrician or solar power specialist to install the solar power equipment and connect the gate operator.
Notes On Solar Power Gates
Solar power is a sustainable and renewable resource; in theory, as long as the sun is shining, you can operate a gate motor on the sun's power.
However, solar power is a very complex thing, and even having your panels installed at the wrong angle can lower the power you can generate and store.
Likewise, if you often have cloudy weather or snow, solar panels might not work as well.
The best advice is always to speak to a gate automation specialist who works in your area and ask them if solar power is an option for your gate.
