As we look at the possibility of hurricane Irma heading our way, NOW is the time to prepare your house for the hurricane.
Please note that once we enter the Hurricane Warning stage, we will not be able to install any doors or gates until the threat has passed. Once the threat has passed, we will be resume services and installations as quickly as possible.
We have a few simple tips to help keep your garage door and/or gates as safe as possible in the hurricane. Following these simple steps will help keep you safe, but remember that hurricanes are destructive, so there are no guarantees.
Clopay Garage Preparation
If you have a Clopay garage door, preparing your door for a hurricane is simple:
- Engage your inside slide locks.
- Pull the red cord and release the door from the operator.
- Unless you have surge protector on your operator, consider disconnecting the power to avoid damage from a power surge during the storm.
- Once the storm has passed, you will need to use the door manually until the power is restored.
- When the power is restored, you must reconnect the opener to the door.
- Close the garage door.
- If you disconnected the power, reconnect the power.
- Press the garage door opener button.
- Allow the operator to run without interference. The arm should catch the door and function normally.
Other Companies Garage Doors
- With all doors, you will want to disengage to door from the operator.
- Some door companies have changed their doors, so that they work as Clopay doors do and all that is needed is to engage the inside locks.
- Other door companies will have provided polls or posts that need to be secured to the top and bottom of the opening or to the door.
- If you can’t locate the polls, consider going to the hardware store and getting some wood to create similar braces.
Securing Gates
Open the gates and secure them in the open position. When you secure the gate(s) remember it’s a hurricane. Gates have more surface area than people realize, please make sure that they are secured tightly. You do not want to have your gates become projectiles in the storm.
Important Note: Some are uncomfortable with securing the gate open and we understand, however most all gate operators are equipped with obstruction sensing and will not operate during hurricane force winds. It’s better to have secured open for emergency entry and exit.
- Shut off the power at the gate operator, shut off power at breaker as well.
- Battery back-up and DC powered. Shut off battery back-up or DC power switch. If no switch, disconnect battery cables. Most all models have quick disconnect cables these days. Feel free to call the office and ask for technical support if needed. Please have your make and model handy when you do.
- Do not pull the operator emergency release pins. Leave secured to gate.
- Secure the cover and lock it. Double check the cover is secure.
- Access controls such as keypads, phone systems and readers cover with plastic and duct tape to protect from driving rain. Your equipment is outdoor rated, but this is a major hurricane.
- Unplug access control transformers if you know where they are and accessible.
On behalf of the entire Action team, please take this opportunity to have a plan and make sure your family is safe.
