Solar gate openers are a smart choice for managing property access. They use solar power, so no electrical wiring is needed. This makes them eco-friendly and affordable for homes and businesses.
- Gate Strength: Our options can handle gates weighing from 550 lbs to over 1,500 lbs, suiting various gate types.
- Solar Power: Our openers come with solar panels ranging from 10W to 20W, ensuring reliable performance even in areas with less sunlight.
- Remote Access: Our selections offer remote control ranges from 50 to 100 feet, providing convenient access without needing to be near the gate.
We’ve researched and narrowed down some top-quality Solar Gate Openers for you. Alongside, we’ve included a detailed “Buying Guide” to help you find the right option that fits your budget and needs. Keep reading to make an informed decision.
Best Solar Gate Openers Table
| Solar Gate Opener | Capacity (lbs) | Wattage | Remote Controller Range | Warranty | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ghost Controls Solar Gate Opener | 900 | 10W | 304.8 metres | Lifetime | Check On Amazon |
| Mighty Mule Solar Gate Opener | 550 | 10W | -- | 12 months | Check On Amazon |
| TOPENS Solar Gate Opener | 550 | 50W | 16 metres | 1 Year | Check On Amazon |
| CO-Z Solar Gate Opener | 550 | -- | 40 metres | 1 year | Check On Amazon |
| Topens Solar Gate Opener | 550 | 20W | 20 metres | 12 months | Check On Amazon |
Best Solar Gate Openers Reviews
1. Ghost Controls Solar Gate Opener
Ghost Controls is one of the prominent U.S. brands that offer innovative and efficient solar gate openers that can open/close heavy-weight gates. The TSS1XP solar gate opener retains most of the typical features of the brand such as DIY installation, SafeForce feature, and lifetime warranty. The solar gate opener is powerful enough to open a gate that is up to 20 inches wide and weighing up to 900 pounds. It comes with a remote that has 3 buttons. Using this remote, you can control 3 gates. You can control them within a range of 1,000 feet. It comes with the brand’s patent-pending SafeForce and GhostCode technology. The SalesForce technology limits the force at which the gate will open to protect the gate from damage. The GhostCode technology allows only authorized remote transmitters and sensor systems to control your gate. It protects your automatic system from hacks and breaches. The controller runs on a 12-volt battery. You do not need any professional expertise to install this system. You can install it yourself with the help of tube gate brackets that come with the kit. You have to clamp the tube brackets to your gate and fit the controller to the bracket. One of the best things about this product is that it comes with a lifetime assurance. In fact, the brand provides lifetime assurance to most of its products. However, the lifetime assurance is only applicable for motor and gearbox.
Best Features
- 1 x 10-watt solar panel
- 1 x 3 Button remote
- 1 x Tube gate brackets set
- 1 x Control box
Pros
- Can control gates with weights of up to 900 pounds
- Good range of 1000 feet
- SafeForce feature to control gate force
- GhostCode feature to protect the system from hacks and breaches
- Remote is simple to use and can control up to 3 gates
- Easy DIY installation
- Lifetime warranty on motor and gearbox
Cons
- No waterproof or dust resistant feature
2. Mighty Mule Solar Gate Opener
Mighty Mule MM371W Automatic Gate Opener is a strong and versatile solution that works well with different types of gates, like chain link and wood. It can handle gates up to 16 feet long, excluding solid surface gates. The easy-to-use design makes installing it simple. It can use solar power, making it eco-friendly. You need to add the FM123 solar panel for charging the battery.
This gate opener works well in all kinds of weather, from cold (-5ºF) to very hot (160ºF), ensuring it stays reliable throughout the year. This gate opener is designed in California and crafted with quality in North America. It comes with gate opener, remote, control box, hardware and access to helpful tech support. The gate opener is compatible with a 12V marine or automotive gate opener battery (FM150, sold separately). It comes with 1 year warranty.
Best Features
- Includes swing gate opener, hinges, remote, and control box for hassle-free installation.
- Functions smoothly in temperatures from -5ºF to 160ºF.
- Suitable for chain link and wood gates.
- Voltage of 12 Volts
- Upgrade options for wireless connectivity and solar power.
- UL325 certification and beep warnings for obstacle detection.
Pros
- Easy installation with BILT App guidance.
- Remote-controlled smart features.
- Solar capability for eco-friendly operation.
- Versatile compatibility with different gate types.
- Reliable operation in diverse weather conditions.
Cons
- Battery (FM150) and additional kits sold separately.
3. TOPENS Solar Gate Opener
TOPENS PW502 is a Dual Swing Gate Opener that is easy to use and reliable, giving you convenience. This opener works with gates up to 16ft long. It runs with its 24VDC 50W motor, making 50 dB of noise for a peaceful atmosphere. It has 0.07 horsepower. The battery in this device is a type called “Lithium Metal.”
It also has a gentle start and stop feature for added safety. It works with different types of gates like steel, wood, vinyl, panel, tube and chain-link. It can be plugged in (AC powered), use the sun (solar compatible with a 20W solar panel you can add), or rely on a backup battery (24V 12Ah) when needed. The package includes two M12 remote controls for added convenience. It comes with 1 year warranty.
Best Features
- Handles gates up to 16ft, 550lbs each.
- Ultra-quiet motor (50dB) for a peaceful experience.
- It runs with its 24VDC 50W motor.
- Multiple safety features, including automatic reverse and soft start/stop.
- DIY-friendly installation with a straightforward user manual.
- Works with various dual swing gate materials.
Pros
- Versatile gate compatibility.
- Options for pull-to-open and push-to-open.
- AC, solar compatible, and battery backup.
- Comes with two M12 remote controls.
- Excellent customer support and warranty.
Cons
- Not holding up well
4. CO-Z Solar Gate Opener
CO-Z Automatic Sliding Gate Opener is a modern solution that handles gates weighing up to 40 ft. long. This opener has built strong with good-quality steel and has a tough ABS cover, bringing together durability and advanced technology for excellent performance. It has a strong 550W electric motor that makes the gate move quickly and smoothly at a speed of 42 ft. per minute, ensuring fast and efficient operation.
This gate opener is all about making things easy and secure. The infrared sensor ensures automatic closing and obstacle detection, enhancing safety and reliability. It also has extra features, like working with solar panels and driveway alarms. This makes it a complete solution for all your gate automation needs. It also comes with 1 year warranty.
Best Features
- Handles gates up to 40 ft. long.
- High-quality steel construction with ABS cover.
- It Has strong 550W electric motor
- Comes with two remote controls (supports up to 25).
- It works from up to 100 feet away
- Infrared sensor for automatic closing and obstacle detection.
- Frequency encryption technology for secure access.
- Solar panel kit and driveway alarm compatibility.
Pros
- Swift and efficient gate movement at 42 ft. per minute.
- 100 feet remote control range.
- Additional features for customization and enhanced security.
- Compact design and reasonable weight for practical use.
Cons
- Some users may find the initial setup challenging.
5. Topens Solar Gate Opener
Topens leverages technology to develop reliable and high-quality automatic gate openers. Topens has developed this solar gate opener to control medium duty gates. By installing this gate opener, you can open or close gates that are 16 feet long and weigh up to 550 pounds. You can use this for all types of dual swing gates and driveway gates. The controller has two 24V DC motors that consume less power. The AD5S solar gate opener runs on a 24V battery. Its components are made of durable materials. Its arms are made of die-casting aluminum to have a long operating life. Besides, the control box has waterproof features. Topens has equipped this automatic gate opener with some advanced features. While closing the gate, the gate opener automatically senses if there is any obstruction. It stops the motion of the gate and opens it again. The solar gate opener also has an adjustable auto-close time feature. You can set a time between 3 to 120 seconds and it will close the gate based on the pre-set time. Besides, it has some other features such as microchip rolling code for the remote controller, adjustable stall force, and maximum motor running time of 40 seconds. The solar gate opener has multiple control options. It comes with an M12 remote control, ET24 gate lock, and a TKP3 wireless keypad. You can use any of the devices to operate your gate. Furthermore, it has a manual release key to operate the gate in case of a power outage. While installing the system, you can either opt for a pull-to-open or push-to-open mechanism. The kit comes with enough accessories and tools to install the gate opener yourself. You do not have to use welding or high-voltage electricity to install the system. The solar gate opener comes with a 12-month warranty. Additionally, you can return for a full refund or exchange it within 30 days. The brand provides reliable and friendly customer service to help you out.
Best Features
- 2 x 20W monocrystalline solar panel
- 1 x Waterproof control box
- 1 x Control board
- 2 x Die-casting aluminum arms
- 1 x TS24-U adapter
- 2 x M12 remote control
- 1 x 25ft extension conductor cable
- 1 x Manual release key
- 1 x Post pivot bracket
- 1 x PSO part bracket
- 1 x Rust-proof mounting hardware
Pros
- Suitable for dual swing gates and driveway gates
- Adjustable auto-close time and stall force
- Soft start and soft stop feature
- Three gate control options
- Manual release key
- Two installation options – pull-to-open and push-to-open
- IP44 Waterproof feature
- Simple installation – comes with installation manual and necessary hardware
Cons
- Warranty of only 12 months
- Not suitable for heavy-duty gates
Things To Consider When Purchasing a Solar Gate Opener
The above product reviews would have given you a good idea of some of the best solar gate openers. Below are some of the features that improve your convenience and increase product longevity. Let’s take a look at the some must to consider key factors while shopping for a solar gate opener.
1. Load Capacity (or) Weight Rating
Why it Matters: The load capacity or weight rating of a solar gate opener is crucial because it determines the maximum weight of the gate that the opener can reliably move. If the gate exceeds the opener’s weight capacity, it could lead to poor performance, increased wear and tear, or even failure of the system.
What to Look For: Look for solar gate openers with a weight rating that exceeds the weight of your gate. Products typically range from handling gates weighing 550 lbs to those capable of moving gates up to 1,500 lbs or more. Ensuring a buffer between the gate weight and the maximum capacity of the opener can contribute to longer lifespan and more efficient operation.
2. Solar Panel Efficiency
Why it Matters: Solar panel efficiency is a key factor because it affects how effectively the solar gate opener converts sunlight into electrical energy to power the gate mechanism. Higher efficiency panels can capture more energy in various weather conditions, ensuring consistent operation even on cloudy days.
What to Look For: Solar gate openers equipped with high-efficiency panels, typically rated from 10W to 20W, are ideal. It’s also beneficial to consider the quality of the solar panel technology used, such as monocrystalline or polycrystalline solar cells, which can affect performance and durability.
3. Control Options
Control options provide flexibility and security in how you access and operate your solar gate opener. Diverse control methods cater to different preferences and situations.
a. Remote Controller
Why it Matters: A remote controller allows for convenient access from a distance, making it easier to open or close the gate without needing to physically interact with the gate or opener.
What to Look For: Seek out remote controllers with a generous range, typically from 50 feet to 100 feet, to ensure accessibility from inside a vehicle or from the house. Also, consider remotes that offer multiple buttons for additional gates or security features.
b. Code Lock
Why it Matters: Code locks offer a layer of security, allowing access only to those who know the programmed code. This is particularly useful for properties concerned with unauthorized access.
What to Look For: Look for code locks that are weather-resistant and have backlit keypads for easy use at night. Also, consider the ease of changing codes and the capacity for multiple codes to accommodate guests or service personnel.
c. Manual Key
Why it Matters: In the event of a power outage or malfunction, having a manual key option ensures you can still operate your gate, providing an essential backup access method.
What to Look For: Ensure the manual key mechanism is secure yet easily accessible for the gate owner. It should provide a straightforward method for manually opening or closing the gate without requiring specialized tools or excessive force.
4. Battery
Why it Matters: The battery is a core component of a solar gate opener, storing the solar energy collected during the day to power the gate even when there is no sunlight. A robust battery ensures your gate operates reliably, especially during the night or on cloudy days.
What to Look For: Seek batteries with high capacity, typically measured in ampere-hours (Ah), which indicate how long a battery will last on a charge. A capacity of 7Ah to 12Ah is common and suitable for most residential gate openers.
Consider also the battery type, such as lead-acid or lithium-ion, with lithium-ion offering longer lifespan and better performance in a wider range of temperatures.
5. Quality Controller
Why it Matters: The quality controller acts as the brain of the solar gate opener, managing the flow of electrical power between the solar panel, battery, and motor. A high-quality controller ensures efficient operation, protecting against overcharging or deep discharge of the battery.
What to Look For: Look for controllers with intelligent management features, including Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) for optimizing the power conversion from the solar panel. Ensure the controller has protective measures for battery health and is rated for the system’s power requirements.
6. Energy Management
Why it Matters: Effective energy management is crucial for maximizing the efficiency of your solar gate opener, ensuring it has enough power to operate anytime needed while minimizing waste.
What to Look For: Opt for solar gate openers with advanced energy management systems that automatically adjust power consumption based on usage patterns and solar input. This includes systems that can enter a low-power standby mode and have the capability to prioritize charging the battery when sunlight is available.
7. Water Resistance
Why it Matters: Solar gate openers are exposed to the elements, making water resistance vital for preventing damage from rain, sprinklers, and humidity. Proper sealing and construction materials can significantly extend the lifespan of the opener by protecting its electronic components.
What to Look For: Look for a solar gate opener with a high Ingress Protection (IP) rating, which indicates the level of protection against water and dust. An IP rating of IP65 or higher is desirable for ensuring that the opener is dust-tight and protected against water jets from any direction. Additionally, consider the materials used in the construction of the opener and its components, with stainless steel and UV-resistant plastics offering enhanced durability.
8. Temperature Range
Why it Matters: Solar gate openers are exposed to the outdoor environment, subjecting them to extreme temperatures. The operational temperature range indicates the conditions under which the device can function without failure.
What to Look For: Look for solar gate openers that can operate within a wide temperature range, typically between -20°C (-4°F) to 50°C (122°F). This ensures that the opener will perform reliably in both hot summer months and cold winter conditions.
9. Security and Safety Features
Why it Matters: Security and safety features protect against unauthorized access and prevent accidents, making them essential for any automated gate system.
What to Look For
- Auto-Reverse: A feature that stops and reverses the gate’s direction if it encounters an obstacle, preventing injury or damage.
- Infrared Sensors: These sensors detect the presence of objects or people in the path of the gate, enhancing safety during operation.
- Integrated Alarms: Alarms can deter unauthorized access and alert you to potential security breaches.
10. Loop Detectors
Why it Matters: Loop detectors are used to sense the presence of vehicles, either to open the gate automatically as a car approaches or to prevent the gate from closing on a vehicle.
What to Look For: Opt for models that support the integration of loop detectors and consider whether you need exit, entry, or safety loops based on your property’s layout and security requirements.
11. Auto-Close
Why it Matters: The auto-close feature automatically closes the gate after it has been opened for a predetermined amount of time, enhancing security and convenience.
What to Look For: Look for solar gate openers that allow you to adjust the auto-close timer, typically ranging from a few seconds to several minutes, according to your specific needs and preferences.
12. Quick Close
Why it Matters: Quick close functionality allows the gate to close faster than its standard operation speed, minimizing the time the property is accessible after entry or exit.
What to Look For: This feature is particularly important in high-security areas. Ensure the system provides an adjustable setting to control the closing speed without compromising safety.
13. Motion Arrest
Why it Matters: Motion arrest is a critical safety feature that immediately stops gate motion if the control system fails or detects a problem, preventing potential harm or damage.
What to Look For: Systems with a robust motion arrest feature can detect anomalies in operation, such as excessive force or speed, and swiftly halt movement to avoid accidents.
How Does This Solar-Powered Gate Opener Work?
You can operate (open/close) any type of gate automatically with this solar gate opener. This is often used for swinging and sliding gates with the help of solar power. In general, there are 4 components available in the solar gate openers – control box, actuator ram, solar panels, and solar battery. Here is a detailed explanation of how this opener works…
- Control Box: A durable hard plastic that is installed on the gate, and works like the human brain. It consists of the battery, power pack, motherboard, and receiver. It receives the signals sent by the keypad, the sensor device, or the remote control. Then it sends the signals to appropriate devices within the system and thereby controls the operation properly.
- Actuator Ram: Irrespective of opening or closing the gate, the ram is used to secure the gate in its place. It is made of durable stainless steel with excellent grit, water, and corrosion resistance. In some cases, the rubber seal is tied with a powder-coated metal component.
- Solar Panels: With the photovoltaic cells integrated into the system, the solar panels are the main thing to collect and convert solar energy into electricity/power. You have to connect the panels to the control box via wires to power the system.
- Solar Battery: A 12V standard DC battery is used by the solar-powered gate openers to store the excess power/electricity. The solar gate opener uses the battery to work in the winter, on cloudy days, or in the evenings.
How Do We Install This Solar Gate Opener?
Here is the list of the following equipment required for the proper installation of the solar gate opener. Take a look at them…
- Wrenches
- Solar panel
- Gate opener kit
- Mounting brackets
- Power drill
- Level
- Tape
- Pliers
- Wiring tools
The solar gate opener offers full user manuals with detailed instructions on its proper installation. Here is the general installation procedure….
- Gather all those tools and supplies like wrenches, screwdrivers, or other handy tools along with the safety equipment. Also, use protective work hand gloves and eyewear.
- You should exactly know where to place this opener for easy access to the opener position. It has to be positioned inside the fence line, or near the gate’s center line.
- Mount properly to assemble the post bracket and then go with the installation of opener arm.
- Now it’s time to install the stop plates mounted at the closed position, and then its control box.
- Connect the power cable, battery wires, and also connect all these to the solar panel.
- Now, place the battery on the remote along with the solar-powered opener for its proper working.
- Finally, do various tests to check and verify that all are properly allied and working to open/close the gate automatically.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Using a Solar Gate Opener
As a buyer and user, you should know the benefits and drawbacks of the solar gate opener before making its purchase. This will let you know whether the particular product meets your requirements, and thereby helps you in making the right buying decision. Here is a detailed explanation of a set of pros and cons of solar gate openers.
Advantages/Pros:
- Economical – Being run with solar power (free of cost), the solar gate openers are an affordable and cheaper option than electrical gate openers, which rely on electricity. Therefore, you can save your electrical bills and operational costs. Also, the openers let you free from going off the grid.
- Eco-Friendly – Regular gate openers run on either electricity or burning fossil fuels, which create a negative effect on the environment. Yet the solar gate openers use solar energy, which is a clean, and renewable energy source. So, solar-powered gate openers have a positive impact on the environment. They reduce the ecological footprint in the world.
- Security Purpose – There are various security features available in most premium solar gate opener models. The use of these models will maximize the overall security and protection of your property.
- Convenient – The solar gate openers are a safe and convenient option for those who are lazy, disabled, elderly, or have joint problems.
- Perfect for Remote or Big Properties – If having long driveways, large properties, or living in remote areas, then solar gate openers are an ideal option. Since they work with sunlight, the gate openers will prevent the installation of extra power lines or new wires to operate the gate opener. Also, you won’t have to worry about the blackout or power outage, as it will work at any time using solar heat.
- Safer Option – These solar gate openers are the best option to use in homes having children and pets. You don’t have to worry about the electrical hazards, which are commonly faced while using the electric gate openers.
Drawbacks/Cons:
- Relies on the Sun – Usually, these openers are reliant on solar energy, which won’t perform well, especially during cloudy or winter seasons, when there is no adequate sunlight to charge the panel. So, it’s not suggested to use in colder climate areas.
- Limited Use – The number of times the gate opens is based on the amount of solar energy the gate opener is charged with. Cloudy days will result in a limited number of opening and closing cycles.
Tips To Reduce Regular Wear and Damage on the Gate Opener
As a part of regular maintenance to the solar gate opener, we suggest you follow these tips that are quite useful to enhance its durability and longevity.
1. Keep the Gate Opener Clean
The pull and push tubes of the opener have to be kept clean and lubricated to enhance its performance. Clean them once every two months with the help of silicon spray and a soft, clean cloth. Also, clear the accumulated snow close to the gates, as this snow will add extra torque demanding higher effort for the DC motor. So, maintain a clear path for an easy to open/close the gate during winter. Don’t forget to clean the solar panel to remove the snow, dust, or bird droppings on the module’s surface to reduce the performance. PV modules are small, and the effect of soiling over is more vital than regular size models. Check and clean them regularly with soft cloth and water.
2. Buy a Battery Box
Use a 12V, automotive lead-acid battery model for your gate openers, yet the user has to be careful that lead acids and toxic gases might come out of the battery, and damage the wires or control boards that are close to the battery. So, some manufacturers design models like Ghost Controls ABBT2 battery box kits, separated from the control board. If the configuration won’t allow it, then periodic maintenance is a must to the terminals of the battery and replace them every 4 – 5 years.
3. Keep the Bugs Out
Solar gates are located in wide opened areas like farm gates. Usually, slugs, snails, and spider webs produce a moist environment damaging the circuitry and other electrical components. For this, use insect repellents and purchase products that keep moisture out of the control box.
Solar Gate Openers – FAQs
Ans: It is a must to know how long the solar gate opener last before you plan to buy and use them. In general, a branded solar gate opener model can easily last for an average of 10 years. If taken proper care and regular maintenance, then you can extend its working life for another 2 years, which means a total of 12 years. So, it’s better to do proper maintenance and repairs for its prolonged lifespan.
Ans: Your gate type (single or dual) will determine the capacity of the solar panel you need to use for the proper functioning of the gate opener. The panel’s sizes will vary according to the power capacity, which means the battery capacity of the gate opener and the wattage of the solar panel are interrelated. For instance, a solar panel of 5W to 10W is required to operate a single or one-swing gate. Whilst a solar panel with a charging power of 10W to 30W (based on the gate’s weight) is needed to operate dual swing gates.
Ans: A solar gate opener is the best investment to secure your property and a convenient option for drivers who enter and exit without getting out of the car, especially in inclement weather. Some models offer to lock mechanisms to prevent the access or entry of unwanted visitors and buglers. Furthermore, a solar gate opener will add extra value that attracts potential buyers when you want to sell your property.
Ans: Usually, any gate opener is well-matched and works with solar power. Yet require various components for its installation and has to spend extra money for installing a standard gate opener that runs using solar power. So, if you can afford this extra investment then go with using a solar panel to operate the non-solar gate opener.
Ans: Yes, these openers work well even in the winter season. The sun-light receiving gate location is the main thing to consider. However, sunlight is limited in the winters, and thereby the openers use charged batteries to operate during this season.
Ans: Solar gate openers are ideal if you live in a remote area or if you experience frequent power cuts. They rely on solar power to control the gate. Besides, there is no maintenance and installation is also simple.
Ans: Yes and no. It depends on the specifications of the solar gate opener. A solar gate opener that has a high load-capacity or weight rating can operate most gates. Besides, some solar gate openers are best suited for dual swing gates.
Ans: Installing a solar gate opener depends on one brand to another and also the specific model. But, it is simple and easy to install them. Each model will come with a detailed installation manual. Follow the instruction to install the solar gate openers.
Ans: The primary reason for your automatic gate to open by itself is a defective controller. If you face this issue, never troubleshoot it by yourself. Contact the brand if the product is still in warranty. Or, seek other professional assistance.
Ans: If you have lost your remote controller or there is no power in the system, you can override the system by using the manual key. The manual key will allow you to open or close the gate. It is usually located near the controller.
Conclusion
Considering the performance, features, and customer satisfaction, the top three recommended solar gate openers are as follows:
- When you choose the right solar gate opener based on the weight and dimensions of your gate, it will definitely serve its purpose. If you want a heavy-duty solar gate opener with advanced features, purchase the Ghost Controls solar gate opener. It can operate up to 900-pound gates and has a limited lifetime warranty. But it has no water and corrosion-resistant features.
- If you reside in a place of harsh weather conditions and want a solar gate opener with water and corrosion-resistant features, go with our TOPENS Solar Gate Opener. It is made of 202 stainless steel and has IP44 water and corrosion-resistant features.
If you still face any difficulties in choosing the ideal solar gate opener to meet your needs, let us know using the comments section. My team will help you out. You can also share your thoughts and opinions in the comments box.
