When it comes to commercial automatic door repair, many owners wait until the system fails to act. The real solution lies in preventive maintenance, which is the most effective strategy for avoiding costly emergencies and ensuring continued operation.

Commercial automatic door repair: The importance of preventive maintenance

The owner can avoid commercial automatic door repair with preventative maintenance, which reduces unexpected failures and saves businesses time and money.

A well-maintained door operates smoothly, minimising wear on key components such as sensors, motors, and rails. Additionally, regular maintenance provides key benefits such as the ones you will see below:

Extended lifespan for your components

Sliding or swing door components have a design lifespan. Regular maintenance ensures the extension of this durability by taking the following measures:

• It is ideal to lubricate bearings and belts to avoid premature friction.
• Electronic systems receive calibrations that prevent overload failures.
• Timely detection of deteriorated seals and gaskets before they cause significant damage
As a result, structural and operational elements can last up to 40% longer, delaying costly overhauls.

Energy efficiency that reduces operating costs

Automatic doors, if not properly maintained, can waste significant amounts of energy. The causes and consequences of neglecting certain elements are as follows:
• Misaligned motors consume up to 25% more electricity.
• Dirty sensors force doors to remain open longer than necessary.
• Leaks in pneumatic systems (in air doors) increase monthly bills.

With periodic maintenance by professionals, you can achieve energy savings and quickly recover your investment in preventive maintenance.

Optimised security for everyone

The majority of accidents involving automatic doors are due to poor maintenance. To eliminate the possibility of an automatic door causing an accident, a professional program ensures the following:

• Motion sensors that detect people with pinpoint accuracy
• Emergency stop mechanisms that respond in milliseconds
• Anti-entrapment systems are always calibrated to ANSI/BHMA standards
• Protect customers and employees while reducing your exposure to negligence lawsuits.

In short, routine inspections help detect minor problems before they become serious, avoiding costly emergency repairs.

Common problems you can prevent with consistent maintenance

Some common problems that ignoring maintenance can lead to frequent failures include:

• Sensor failures that prevent doors from closing properly
• Worn rollers or rails that cause jerky movement
• Power supply problems that disrupt operation

Businesses lose an average of five hours of productivity per month due to faulty automatic doors. Thus, scheduled maintenance and timely commercial automatic door repair can also prevent these interruptions.

Compliance with safety standards

Automatic doors (both swing and sliding) must comply with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) and OSHA regulations. Regular inspections ensure compliance, avoiding fines and legal liabilities, so the doors must:

• Open and close at safe speeds
• Have functional safety sensors
• Display warning signs during repair

Failure to maintain and repair commercial automatic doors can result in substantial fines per violation.

Case study: retail store saves thousands

A major retail chain reduced automatic door repair costs by 40% after implementing a semi-annual maintenance plan.
Previously, it had suffered from frequent sensor failures, resulting in customer complaints and emergency service calls. With scheduled maintenance, downtime decreased by 75%.

Long-term cost savings

Although some businesses avoid maintenance to save money, the long-term costs are higher. Emergency repairs can be three times more expensive than preventative maintenance.

Such a service typically costs between $150 and $300, and it is performed semiannually by technicians. Additionally, an emergency repair can cost between $500 and $1,500, but it is not necessary constantly.
Investing in preventive maintenance not only reduces long-term operating costs but also minimises unplanned downtime, thereby avoiding major expenses from unforeseen repairs.

Ensure a functional entrance for your business.

Commercial automatic door repair and maintenance are crucial for safety, efficiency, and cost savings. By scheduling regular checkups, businesses can avoid unexpected breakdowns, comply with regulations, and extend the lifespan of their door systems.

At Stride Access, we specialise in swing and sliding systems. We also understand that automatic doors are the first line of defence for your business. Therefore, we offer programs designed to maximise the lifespan of your doors, save you money, and ensure compliance with all relevant legal regulations.

Frequently Ask Questions

How often should automatic doors need service?
Experts recommend semi-annual inspections, with monthly visual checks in high-traffic areas.

Can I do the maintenance myself?
You can handle electrical and mechanical components in your business, but it’s best to leave them to professional technicians.

What are the signs that my door needs repair?
A door will require maintenance if it makes unusual noises when opening or closing, responds slowly, or exhibits jerky movements.

Does maintenance affect the warranty?
Yes, many manufacturers void warranties if the owner does not maintain doors as recommended.

Which automatic door components require the most maintenance?
These components account for 80% of repairs, according to industry data: motion sensors, bearings and rails, closing mechanisms, and power supplies and wiring.