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Review these commonly asked questions for more information about the Zareba Automatic Gate Opener.

How does an automatic gate opener work?
What transmitters will work with the gate opener?
What tools do I need to install the Automatic Gate Opener?
How many times will it open and close per day?
How fast does the gate opener open the gate?
Can you leave your gate open for an extended period after going through it?
What kind of gates does the Zareba Automatic Gate Opener work on?
What stops the gate moving when it is closed?
What do we need to do differently in cold, snowy weather?
What do I do in the event of a power cut?
Can I open my gate and garage door from the same transmitter?
How do I know if an automatic gate opener will work with my gate?

How does an automatic gate opener work?
The Zareba Automatic Gate Opener works by sending a radio signal from a hand held transmitter to a small receiver. The receiver is wired to the control box which interprets the signal as either a close or open signal. The motor in the actuator arm then starts and pushes the arm backwards or forwards thus moving the gate. The gate opener system needs either mains power or solar power to keep the battery charged. (see Powering Options for more info). The gate can then be closed in a variety of ways such as pushing the transmitter button again, or the gate can be configured to close automatically after a pre-determined amount of time.


click image to enlarge

What transmitters will work with the gate opener?
The Zareba Automatic Gate Opener kit includes a single button transmitter that can be set with a code that matches the code in your receiver box. Additional transmitters from Zareba can also be used, allowing you to open and close other devices, such as a garage door, with the same transmitter. In-vehicle transmitter systems (such as HomeLink®) can also be programmed to work with the Zareba Automatic Gate Opener.

What tools do I need to install the Automatic Gate Opener?
The Zareba Automatic Gate Opener does not require any special tools. A power drill, a set of spanners, a 10mm drill bit, hacksaw, small electrical screw driver, cross head screw driver, tape measure, spirit level, wire stripper or pliers and a set of ‘G’-clamps.

How many times will it open and close per day?
This depends on the condition of the internal battery. Using the supplied AC adaptor the Zareba Automatic Gate Opener should operate the largest gate up to 200 times a day. When used with a solar panel the number of operations per day will depend on the available sunlight and geographic location. See solar panel box for details. (see Powering Options for more info).

How fast does the gate opener open the gate?
The opening time depends on how heavy and long the gate is. Most gates will open to 90-degrees in approximately 20 seconds.

Can you leave your gate open for an extended period after going through it?
You can choose to have the gate stay open until you press the button again or have it close after a pre-determined time.

What kind of gates does the Zareba Automatic Gate Opener work on?
The gate opener is very versatile and works with a wide variety of swing gates, including vinyl, chain link, metal, or wood gates (solid wood gates are not recommended as wind resistance may be an issue).

What stops the gate moving when it is closed?
When correctly set up the Zareba Automatic Gate Opener cannot be moved by hand. The actuator arms will hold them securely in place. For additional security an Zareba Automatic Gate Latch is available (GBL1).

Will the Zareba Automatic Gate opener cope with snow and ice?
The Zareba Automatic Gate Opener is designed to work in all weather conditions. However, snow must be cleared away from the gate’s swing path before activating the opener, and moving parts should receive a new application of silicone spray every 4-6 weeks. It is also a good idea to make sure the hinges are not frozen.

What do I do in the event of a power cut?
The Zareba Automatic Gate Opener has battery backup installed. It will operate while the mains is off. In the event of a system failure the clevis pin can be removed and the gate opened manually.

Can I open my gate and garage door from the same transmitter?
Yes, with a two-button transmitter (GBT2), sold as an accessory to your gate opener kit. (link to accessory page). The two-button transmitter has two buttons that can be programmed independently, one for your garage door opener and one for your gate opener.

How do I know if an automatic gate opener will work with my gate?
The Zareba Automatic Gate Opener will work with most gates, including vinyl, wood, chain link, and ornamental metal. However you should check a couple of things in advance to ensure proper operation. First, the Zareba Automatic Gate Opener is rated to operate gates that weigh up to 340kg and are less than 5 metres long. Also, your gate should be in good operating condition. Any gate opener will struggle with a gate that is inoperable. Check for the following.

  • be plumb, level and swing freely on its hinges
  • wheels can not be attached to the gate
  • the gate can move through its arc without binding or dragging on the ground
  • ball-bearing hinges with grease fittings are used with gates weighing over 115kg
  • the fence post is secured in the ground with concrete to minimize flex or twist
  • the gate has a horizontal cross member to provide stability
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