First: switch the gate off
Turn the gate off at its isolator switch before you release it. When the power comes back, a gate that's half-released or out of position can move unexpectedly, and you don't want to be holding it when it does.
Find the release for your type of gate
Release keys are usually triangular or brand-specific, and often get put in a kitchen drawer by whoever installed the gate. If you've never seen yours, look now, before you need it.
- Underground motors: a key-operated release at the foot of each gate, near the hinge. It's often under a small cover plate or cap in the paving. Turn the key and the gate swings freely.
- Ram motors (an arm from the post to the gate): a key or small lever on the motor body, usually near the post end.
- Articulated arm motors: a key or lever on the motor casing on the post.
- Sliding gates: a key-operated hatch or lever on the motor housing at the side of the drive. Release it and push the gate along its track.
Move the gate slowly
Once released, move the gate gently by hand. Heavy gates build up momentum, so walk it rather than push it, and keep fingers clear of hinges and the gap between the gates. If it's very stiff or won't move, stop: forcing it can damage the motor or the gate.
Many gates also have an electric lock. Magnetic locks usually release when the power goes off, but some electric locks stay locked and need their own key.
When the power comes back
Close the gate by hand, re-engage the release with the same key or lever, then switch the power back on. Some gates need one full open-and-close cycle to find their positions again, and may move slowly the first time. If it behaves oddly, switch it off and call an engineer.
Never get stuck again
- Battery back-up: most modern control boards accept a back-up battery that runs the gate for a number of cycles in a power cut.
- Keep the release keys somewhere everyone in the house knows, with a spare outside the gate if it's safe to.
- If your gate is old, a new control board can add battery back-up and better safety features.