Autogate NW
5348 216th Ave SW
Centralia, WA 98531
(360) 349-6910


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Power, Batteries & Solar – FAQ

Gate systems run on AC power, batteries, solar, or a hybrid. Power quality and battery health strongly affect reliability.

Power options

Can my gate work during a power outage?

Most systems can if they have batteries. Battery age matters—a weak battery can make the gate act “haunted.”

When does solar make sense?
  • No easy trenching for AC power.
  • Moderate daily cycles.
  • Good sun exposure year-round.

If you have heavy use or shade, we plan accordingly.

Why does my gate get slow or stop after a few cycles?
  • Batteries weak/failing.
  • Charging issue (shade, bad charger, blown fuse).
  • Gate binding causing high current draw.

Batteries

How often should batteries be replaced?

It varies, but a few years is common. Extreme heat/cold and deep discharges shorten life.

Do batteries affect safety sensors?

Yes. Low voltage can make sensors/intercoms behave inconsistently.