How to Measure Battery Voltage

A weak battery is the most common cause of gate opener problems. Checking the voltage takes two minutes and can save you from replacing parts you don't need. You will need a digital multimeter.

Method 1: Check the Battery Controller Screen (Easiest)

If you have the USAutomatic Battery Controller (520001), the LCD screen displays the current battery voltage automatically.

• Fully charged: around 13.6-13.8 volts
• Needs charging: below 12.5 volts

Method 2: Use a Multimeter

1. Set the multimeter to DC Volts.
2. Touch the red probe to the positive (+) battery terminal and the black probe to the negative (-) terminal.
3. Read the display.

The Important Part: Test Under Load

A battery can show a good reading at rest but fail when the gate actually moves. Test it while the gate is working:

1. Check the resting voltage and note it.
2. Press your remote and run the gate through one full cycle while watching the meter.
3. A healthy battery should drop less than 1 volt during the cycle. If it drops more, the battery is weak and needs replacement.

Pro Tip: Cover the solar panel with a cloth first so the panel isn't masking a bad battery.

What the Reading Means

If you have any further questions, please reach out to our representatives. They are happy to help in any way they can!