Search

Is Using Solar Power Right For You?

Is Using Solar Power Right For You?


5 minute read

Listen to article
Audio is generated by DropInBlog's AI and may have slight pronunciation nuances. Learn more

Solar power is becoming more and more accessible for people throughout many industries. Taking advantage of this budding method of providing sustainable power will help you with things such as energy costs and convenience.

At Ghost Controls®, we offer a range of reliable solar panels that will ensure that your automatic gate opener's batteries are always charged. However, solar powered options may not be for everyone. There are a variety of factors to consider before purchasing solar accessories so that your Ghost Controls® gate opening system is tailored to your specific needs.

The first and most important thing to consider when investing in solar power is the type of power that is most appropriate for your electric driveway gate opening system. If the location of your gate opener does not have access to an AC power source, solar power may be your only option. However, if AC power is available to your gate opener, solar panel accessories are not recommended.

10 Watt Monocrystalline Solar Panel Kit - AXDP

10 Watt Monocrystalline Solar Panel Kit - AXDP

$109.00

The 10 watt monocrystalline solar panel easily connects into the control box to supply recharging power to the main system batteries. Maximum of 30 watts of solar power can be added to your system 18 Month Warranty *Make sure to… read more

30 Watt Monocrystalline Solar Panel Kit - AX30

30 Watt Monocrystalline Solar Panel Kit - AX30

$199.00

The 30-watt monocrystalline solar panel easily connects into the control box to supply recharging power to the main system batteries. Dimensions of panel: 23-3/4" W x 13-5/8 D Mounts to a 2" or 3” round post (post not included) 12' wire included Pole/Post… read more

If you are certain that solar panels will be your primary method of powering your remote gate opener, it's time to figure out the amount of solar energy output you will need. These parameters will depend on the area of the United States that you live in. Certain sunnier Zones will allow for more gate cycles using smaller panels, whereas typically cooler areas with less sun might need larger panels to generate a stronger charge. For a more detailed estimate on which panels are best suited for you, click here.

Large amounts of foliage that create shade around your single or dual gate opener will not foster optimal conditions for solar panel usage. This could result in you getting less cycles out of your battery on a daily basis. Even a small amount of shade cast on one of your panels could reduce its output by up to 50%, so it is important to consciously set up your panels in unobstructed sunlit areas.

The second factor in using solar effectively will be determining what size battery to use. For light usage in areas that get good sun most of the time, our ABBT2 battery box kit with 2 batteries may be sufficient for your needs. In areas where you aren't getting ideal sun or if you're using the driveway single swing gates often, a 12-volt deep cycle marine battery will be a better option.

This type of battery will give you the extra storage you'll need to operate the gate on days you're not getting good sun. You can get this type of battery and an appropriate sized box to house it in, locally.

When you consider all of these factors before committing to powering your system through solar, you'll be able to choose exactly the specifications you need. Every person's gate entrance is unique, whether through its location, build, or how often it's used. At Ghost Controls®, we recommend going solar as a great way for using renewable energy while not having to rely on an AC power source. Go off the grid today with our quality solar powered compatibility and accessory options!

Looking to learn more about Ghost Controls® solar gate openers and gate opener accessories? 

Ghost Controls offers a wide array of reliable driveway swing gate openers, including chain link gate openers. For years, customers have asked for an alternative for slow, unreliable, and noisy operators. At Ghost Controls we have worked hard with innovations in Noise Reduction, Speed, and Reliability on our heavy duty electric gate openers. Additionally, we provide all of our customers with the opportunity to share our love of solar powered renewable energy by converting their systems into a solar automatic gate opener. Using a solar operator is a great way to go off the grid and provide your swing gate operator system with endless clean energy for your remote gate opener.

Speed, and Reliability:

  • Quiet – motor noise is accurately correlated to quality in the mechanical and electronic design. All our openers have a maintenance free gear box and motor. They were designed for smooth, quiet operation regardless of the age and cycles of the battery powered gate opener.
  • Fast – Our mechanical design and new radio frequency offer superior range offering a greater level of convenience for customers.
  • Invincible (Limited Life-Time Warranty) – The motor is one of the most critical components to ensure reliability and longevity. We back our proprietary gear motors with a limited lifetime warranty. No other product in the market can make this claim.

GHOST CONTROLS® single and double swing gate openers are designed and manufactured with pride, delivering the highest quality product and customer support in the industry. We believe in our products with our limited lifetime warranty on each solar compatible dual or single gate opener*. Our corporate philosophy is; steadfast commitment to our customers, culture, products, and people.

*Limited lifetime warranty on motor and gear assembly.

« Back to Blog