How to Choose the Best Battery for Your Electric Gate
Your electric gate depends on a reliable power source—especially during outages. Choosing the right battery ensures smooth operation, longer runtimes, and peace of mind. Here’s what to consider when selecting the ideal backup battery for your system.
Understand Your Gate’s Power Requirements
Every operator draws a specific current when moving your gate. Review your motor’s amp‑hour (Ah) rating and voltage—most residential gates run on 12V or 24V. For instance, if your gate motor pulls 5 amps at 12 V, you’ll need at least a 50 Ah battery to get around 10 hours of standby power. If you’re in Dublin, our team can size the right system for you learn more.
Battery Chemistry: Lead‑Acid vs. Lithium‑Ion
- Sealed Lead‑Acid (SLA): Cost‑effective, widely available, and tolerant of cold. They require occasional top‑ups of distilled water and can be heavier.
- Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM): A subtype of SLA that’s maintenance‑free, vibration‑resistant, and safer for indoor installations.
- Lithium‑Ion: Higher upfront cost but far lighter, deeper cycle life, and faster recharge. Ideal for frequent users who need longer service intervals.
In Blacklick, homeowners often choose AGM for its balance of price and performance discover why.
Capacity and Runtime: Calculating Your Backup Needs
To determine runtime:
- Multiply your gate’s current draw (amps) by the expected number of cycles per hour.
- Divide that total by your battery’s Ah rating.
- Add a 20% buffer for inefficiencies and aging.
For precise installations in Columbus, our gate installation specialists factor in typical usage and local weather patterns see our services.
Maintenance and Lifespan Considerations
- SLA/AGM batteries generally last 3–5 years with proper charging habits.
- Lithium‑Ion batteries can exceed 10 years but may require a compatible charger and battery management system (BMS).
- Regular testing using a hydrometer (for SLA) or voltage meter helps you catch capacity loss early.
Environmental Factors: Temperature and Placement
High heat accelerates battery aging, while extreme cold reduces capacity.
- Install batteries in a ventilated, temperature‑controlled enclosure—many operators have built‑in compartments.
- Consider insulated boxes or heat pads if you’re in regions with harsh winters.
Installation Best Practices
- Secure mounting: Prevent vibration and movement.
- Proper wiring: Use the gauge specified by your operator manual to minimize voltage drop.
- Surge protection: A small surge suppressor guards against voltage spikes that can damage batteries.
For more on our company’s history and quality standards, feel free to explore our About Us page where you’ll learn why we’re Central Ohio’s trusted gate experts.
Selecting the optimal battery means matching chemistry, capacity, and installation to your unique needs. If you’d like expert guidance or professional installation, our team is here to help. Contact us today to ensure your electric gate never leaves you stranded.