Is It Time to Replace Your Automatic Door System? Top Signs to Watch For

Your automatic doors are often the first impression customers have of your business. But over time, even the best systems wear down — especially with Calgary’s harsh winters, fluctuating temperatures, and constant use in busy commercial buildings.

So how do you know when it’s time to repair vs. replace your automatic door system?

In this article, we break down the key warning signs, what to do next, and how a timely replacement can improve safety, energy efficiency, and accessibility for your property.

1. The Doors Hesitate or Stall During Opening and Closing

Smooth, consistent motion is critical for both safety and user experience. If your doors:

• Open or close slowly
• Pause mid-cycle
• Shake or rattle when operating
• Fail to open completely

…it may be a sign that internal motors, sensors, or control boards are wearing out.

Quick Tip: Regular maintenance can prevent this, but if repairs don’t solve the issue, it may be time for a full automatic door system replacement.

We offer automatic door repairs and will assess whether a repair or replacement is your best option.

2. Frequent Breakdowns and Emergency Repairs

If you’ve had to call for service more than a few times in a year, your system may be:

• Outdated and no longer compatible with modern parts
• Lacking safety features required by newer codes
• Running on failing motors, controllers, or sensors

At a certain point, repairs become more expensive than a full replacement — especially if breakdowns are disrupting business or compromising accessibility for your customers.

Explore our automatic door replacement services in Calgary and surrounding areas.

3. No Longer Meeting Accessibility Standards

Barrier-free access is mandatory for most commercial spaces in Alberta — including automatic doors and handicap door buttons.

If your system:

• Doesn’t open wide enough for mobility devices
• Doesn’t include working push-to-open buttons
• Closes too quickly
• Doesn’t stop for users in its path

…it may be out of compliance with Alberta Building Code or local bylaws.

Newer systems offer:

• Wireless or hardwired handicap buttons
• Presence sensors to detect users in the door path
• Battery backups to function during power outages
• Touchless motion sensors for hygiene and convenience

Need to add or replace handicap buttons? See our accessibility solutions.

4. Unusual Noises: Grinding, Clicking, or Buzzing

Automatic door systems should be nearly silent during operation. If you’re hearing:

• Grinding (gear failure)
• Clicking (sensor malfunction)
• Buzzing (motor strain)
• High-pitched whirring (worn bearings or drive belts)

…it’s a red flag that the door operator or mechanics are wearing out.

These noises rarely fix themselves — and often mean a failure is coming if not addressed.

5. The System Is Over 10–15 Years Old

Most commercial automatic door systems have a lifespan of 10–15 years with proper maintenance. If your system is older, it likely lacks:

• Modern energy-saving technology
• Updated sensor and control features
• Smart integration with security or access systems
• Spare parts availability

Upgrading to a newer system can offer:

• Lower maintenance costs
• Improved user experience
• Enhanced energy efficiency
• Full code compliance

Upgrade your automatic doors with help from our certified Calgary technicians.

6. Power or Battery Failures Are Frequent

Many modern systems include battery backups for operation during power outages — a critical feature during Calgary’s winter storms or power disruptions.

If your door:

• Fails to operate when the power is out
• Doesn’t reset properly after power returns
• Can’t store settings or open automatically after reboot

…it may need a new power system, or a full replacement with a backup-integrated model.

Ask us about auotmatic door battery backup upgrades and replacement door operators.

7. It Looks Outdated or Hurts First Impressions

Beyond performance, your doors are part of your brand image.

If they’re:

• Visibly scratched, bent, or corroded
• Lacking modern aluminum framing or glass options
• Mismatched with your storefront’s design

…then upgrading can improve your property’s appeal, professionalism, and value.

Final Thoughts

If your automatic doors are showing signs of wear, delay, or compliance issues, don’t wait until they become a hazard or a legal problem.