Choosing Remote Controls for Your Electric Gates

If you're getting new gates, or updating an old system, here's what to think about when it comes to remotes and other ways to open the gate.

1. Security: rolling code

Go for a rolling-code system. Each press sends a different code, so the signal can't simply be recorded and copied. Older fixed-code remotes are easier to clone. All the systems I install use rolling-code remotes.

Secure Remote Controls for Automatic Gates

The most important thing about a gate remote is that it can't be copied. Modern rolling-code remotes change their signal every time they're pressed, so someone capturing the code can't use it to open your gate later.

If your gate still uses older fixed-code remotes, it may be worth upgrading the receiver. We can advise whether your existing system can take rolling-code remotes.

Choosing Electric Gate Remotes That Last

Beyond security, look for range, reliability and how easy the remotes will be to replace in years to come. Remotes from mainstream manufacturers like CAME are easy to get hold of; obscure handsets can be impossible to find later.

We supply remotes matched to your gate system and programme them on site. If you'd like one remote to open your gate and garage, we'll check whether the receivers are compatible.

2. How many buttons?

• One button: open and close the main gate.
• Two buttons: main gate plus a pedestrian opening (one leaf only), or main gate plus a garage door.
• Four buttons: handy if you've several gates or doors on compatible systems.

3. Range

You want the gate to start opening before you reach it, so you don't have to stop on the road. If the receiver is in a metal box or behind a wall, an external aerial helps a lot.

4. How many remotes – and for whom?

Remotes are best for people who use the gate every day. For occasional visitors, a keypad code or app access is easier to manage, and you're not chasing remotes back when someone stops coming. See keypads, fobs and app control.

5. Wired or wireless controls?

Some controls don't need a remote at all:

• Wired push buttons inside the house or at the door – very reliable.
• Key switches at the gate – a simple backup if remotes go missing.
• Wireless keypads and push buttons – save running cables, but need batteries changed.

6. Spares and replacements

Buy remotes that are easy to get hold of in future. Remotes from mainstream manufacturers like CAME, FAAC, BFT or Nice are easy to replace. Obscure kit-brand remotes often aren't.

Need remotes? Call or WhatsApp Adrian on 07854 037752.

Questions people ask me