Should You Choose a Retro-Fit Kit or a Complete Replacement Motor?

If you’re looking at upgrading or repairing your automatic doors, you’ll likely come across two main options: a retro-fit (upgrade kit) or a complete replacement. Both approaches have their place, but the right choice depends on the condition of your existing system and how reliable you want your doors to be in the long term.

Option 1: Retro-Fit / Upgrade Kit

A retro-fit, sometimes called an upgrade kit, involves replacing the control board and motor while keeping the existing wheels and pelmet.

On the surface, this seems like a cost-effective way to get your doors running again. However, there are a few common issues to keep in mind:

Worn wheels – If your wheels are already old or damaged, the new motor won’t run as smoothly as it should.
Damaged track – Many older tracks are worn down, which can reduce the efficiency of the new motor.
Partial upgrade – Because not all components are replaced, the system often doesn’t perform like a brand-new unit.
Limited improvement – You’re only replacing part of the system, so performance never matches that of a new operator.
This can be cheaper at the start but cost more down the line as you have to replace the wheels or track

A retro-fit can be a short-term fix, but it may lead to ongoing maintenance costs if other parts fail soon after the upgrade.

In other words, you’re investing in a half-solution. You’ll likely face ongoing maintenance costs, more downtime, and no real long-term value.

Option 2: Complete Replacement

A complete replacement means removing the entire operator pelmet, motor, and associated parts and installing a brand-new system.

The benefits of this option are clear:

Everything is new – No mismatched old and new components.
Not having to replace wheels, or track costing more money
Full warranty – You get peace of mind knowing the whole system is covered.
Longer lifespan – The motors we use, FACE, are tested to 5 million cycles, compared with just 1 million cycles for other brands. This makes them a much more reliable long-term investment.

While the upfront cost may be higher than a retro-fit, a complete replacement is the best long-term solution, reducing maintenance issues and ensuring smooth, reliable operation for years to come.

Which Option Is Right for You?

Choose retro-fit if your system is relatively new and in good condition, but only the motor or control board needs attention.
Choose complete replacement if your system is older, frequently breaks down, or you want the best possible performance and warranty protection.

In most cases, businesses find that a complete replacement saves more in the long run by reducing downtime, maintenance costs, and unexpected repairs.

Contact Action Auto Door today for a free quote and guidance on what is the right option for you and your home or business. Action Auto Door installs automatic swing doors , automatic sliding doors and disabled access doors in homes and businesses across Australia.

Telescopic Sliding Doors

Telescopic sliding doors are used when you don’t have a lot of wall space to fit an automatic sliding door. An example of this is when there is no wall space either side of the opening, like in a corridor. There would be no room for a standard automatic door to slide.

Conventional sliding doors have one or two panels moving horizontally, telescopic versions consist of multiple door panels that slide and stack neatly behind one another in a synchronized way.

A 4-panel telescopic door may have two panels sliding behind fixed panels on each side, creating a much wider opening than a standard sliding door could offer in the same wall space.

Another example is a single direction telescopic door that would have two panels sliding to the left or right in front of a fixed panel.

A bi-parting telescopic door would have two panels sliding to the left in front of a fixed panel and two panels sliding to the right in front of a fixed panel. These are your various options when it comes to telescopic doors.

Key Benefits of telescopic sliding doors

Space Optimization

Telescopic sliding doors are ideal for areas where wall space is limited, yet a wide opening is desired. This makes them perfect for tight corridors, compact rooms, and small office spaces.

Modern Aesthetics

With sleek lines, minimalistic frames, and smooth operation, these doors add a contemporary touch to any environment. They blend seamlessly with glass facades, modern interiors, and high-end architecture.

Increased Accessibility

These doors provide wider openings, which is especially beneficial in commercial buildings, hospitals, airports, and other public spaces where easy and accessible movement is critical

Customizable Designs

Whether you prefer full glass panels, wood finishes, or aluminium frames, telescopic doors can be tailored to suit any design language or architectural theme

Automation Ready

Many telescopic sliding doors are available with automation features. Sensor-activated or remote-controlled options enhance convenience, hygiene, and security — especially in high-traffic areas.

Where to Use Telescopic Sliding Doors

Commercial Buildings: Offices, malls, and hotels often install telescopic doors at entrances to accommodate high foot traffic while maintaining a stylish look.
Residential Spaces: In modern homes, these doors are great for patios, balconies, or even room dividers, allowing for open-plan living without sacrificing privacy.
Healthcare Facilities: The wide openings and smooth, touch-free operation are ideal for stretchers and wheelchairs.
Retail Stores: Storefronts benefit from the maximum display and entry space without obstructions.

Considerations Before Installation

While telescopic sliding doors offer many advantages, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Structural Support: Ensure your wall or frame can handle the track system and door weight.
Cost: These doors can be more expensive than traditional sliding doors due to the complexity of the mechanism.
Maintenance: Like any precision mechanism, regular servicing is essential to maintain smooth operation.

Telescopic sliding doors represent the perfect fusion of form and function. Their ability to provide expansive openings while saving space makes them a smart investment. Whether you’re designing a high-end corporate office or renovating your home for a modern look, consider telescopic sliding doors as a stylish and practical solution.

Interested in installing telescopic sliding doors in your space? Contact Action Auto Door we install automatic sliding doors, automatic swing doors, disabled toilet door systems and are NDIS registered providers. We install in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, Brisbane, Gold Coast , Hobart and most regional centres across Australia.

Automatic Doors in Rain, Storms, and Cyclones

You may have been wondering how our automatic door openers have held up in the recent cyclonic weather in South East QLD and Northern NSW. You will be pleased to hear we have had minimal callouts in regards to issues concerning our operators in the adverse weather.

How Automatic Doors Handle Adverse Weather

Rain & Moisture Resistance

Modern automatic doors are designed with weatherproof seals and water-resistant materials to prevent moisture ingress. Features such as covered sensors, drainage systems, and corrosion-resistant frames help maintain smooth operation even during heavy rainfall.

Wind Resistance in Storms

High winds can pose a challenge for automatic doors, but advanced door systems are built with reinforced frames, strong locking mechanisms, and pressure-resistant panels to withstand stormy conditions. Some models include wind load sensors that temporarily disable automatic functions to prevent damage.

Cyclone-Resistant Features

In cyclone-prone areas, automatic doors can be enhanced with impact-resistant glass, additional locking reinforcements, and backup power systems. Specialised cyclone-rated doors are designed to withstand extreme pressure changes and flying debris, reducing risks in severe weather events.

Best Practices for Maintaining Automatic Doors in Extreme Weather

Regular Inspections: Ensure all seals, frames, and sensors are in good condition to prevent water and wind damage.
Weatherproofing Enhancements: Invest in high-quality gaskets, drainage systems, and rust-resistant coatings.
Emergency Power Backup: Install battery backups or generator support to maintain functionality during power outages.
Manual Override Systems: Ensure the doors have an easy-to-use manual override in case of system failure.
Scheduled Maintenance: Work with professional service providers to keep automatic doors in peak condition.

Why Choose Weather-Resistant Automatic Doors?

Investing in weather-resistant automatic doors enhances building safety, energy efficiency, and reliability. Whether in commercial spaces, healthcare facilities, or residential buildings, choosing the right automatic door system ensures continuous operation, even in challenging weather conditions.For more information reading safety standards visit Standards Australia

For expert advice on selecting the best automatic doors for storm-prone areas, contact Action Auto Door today. We are experts in automatic swing doors, automatic sliding doors and disability access in homes and business.

We install and service Automatic doors throughout Australia, no job is to big or small. Contact us for an obligation free quote.

Why You Need An Automatic Door Opener for Heavy Doors

We often get asked about the best way to make entering and exiting a home with heavy doors easier. Parents, the elderly and disabled often have concerns around heavy doors in their homes. Heavy doors are a sign of quality construction, providing durability, security, and insulation. But there sheer weight can be a challenge for many. That’s where the benefit of installing an automatic door opener can make entering and exiting buildings much easier and safer.

Below we discuss the many important reasons to automate heavy doors

1.Enhanced Accessibility

For individuals with mobility challenges, heavy doors can be a significant barrier. Automatic door openers eliminate this obstacle, ensuring seamless entry and exit for everyone, including those using wheelchairs, walkers, or carrying heavy loads. By improving accessibility, automatic door openers promote inclusivity in homes, offices, and public spaces.

2.Convenience in Everyday Life

Heavy doors often require both hands to open, making it difficult to juggle bags, groceries, or children. An automatic door opener offers a hands-free solution, allowing you to pass through effortlessly. This feature is especially helpful in busy commercial environments where efficiency matters, such as hospitals, schools, and retail stores.

3.Energy Efficiency

Many automatic door openers can be programmed to open and close with precision, reducing the amount of time a door is left ajar. This helps maintain indoor temperatures, cutting down on energy costs by minimizing drafts or heat loss. Pairing an automatic opener with a heavy, insulated door creates a perfect combination for energy-conscious buildings.

4. Improved Safety

Heavy doors can pose safety risks if not handled correctly. Automatic door openers reduce the likelihood of injuries caused by slammed doors or strained muscles. They also ensure consistent and controlled operation, which is crucial in areas where children or the elderly are present.

5. Modern Technology Features

Many automatic door operators are equipped with advanced technology, such as motion sensors, remote controls, or even smart integration. This makes them not only practical but also customizable to suit specific needs. Whether you need a timer-based mechanism for security or hands-free operation for hygiene, modern options have you covered.

Automatic Door Operators can be installed in commercial buildings. Offices, malls, and hospitals benefit from enhanced accessibility and efficiency, so too residential homes.

Action Auto Door supplies and installs automatic door openers in residential homes and businesses across Australia . Contact us today for an obligation free quote.

Smart Technology and Your Automatic Doors

Automatic doors, once considered a luxury, have become common in commercial spaces, hospitals, airports, and other high-traffic areas. Traditionally operated by motion sensors or push buttons, these doors have always been about convenience and accessibility. However, as smart technology advances, automatic doors are evolving beyond their basic functions, incorporating new levels of intelligence and adaptability.

Action Auto Door can incorporate the latest smart technology with doors in your home or business contact us for an obligation free quote.

The Role of Smart Technology

Smart technology introduces several key enhancements to automatic door systems:

1. Enhanced Security Features: With the integration of smart sensors and cameras, automatic doors can now offer advanced security features. These systems can identify individuals through facial recognition or RFID tags, granting access only to authorized personnel. Additionally, smart doors can be connected to centralized security systems, allowing for real-time monitoring and immediate response to any security breaches.

2. Energy Efficiency: Smart automatic doors can be programmed to operate more efficiently, reducing energy consumption. For instance, doors can be set to open only when necessary, or to close immediately after someone passes through. Advanced climate sensors can also ensure that doors remain shut during extreme weather conditions, helping to maintain interior temperatures and reduce HVAC loads.

3. Personalized Access: The concept of personalized access is becoming increasingly important in both residential and commercial settings. Smart doors can be programmed to recognize individual users and adjust their settings accordingly. For example, a smart door in an office building might open more slowly for an employee carrying a large package or adjust its height for wheelchair users. In homes, these doors can be integrated with smart home systems to respond to voice commands or mobile devices, providing seamless entry and exit.

4. Data and Analytics: One of the most significant advantages of smart technology is the ability to collect and analyse data. Automatic doors equipped with smart sensors can monitor traffic patterns, usage frequency, and even detect anomalies. This data can be invaluable for facility managers, enabling them to optimize building operations, schedule maintenance, and improve overall efficiency.

5. Remote Control and Monitoring: The integration of IoT (Internet of Things) devices allows for remote control and monitoring of automatic doors. Facility managers can oversee operations from a central location or even from a mobile device, making it easier to manage multiple doors across different sites. In case of an emergency, doors can be locked down or opened remotely, providing an additional layer of security and control.

The Future of Automatic Doors

The future of automatic doors is shaped by the continued advancement of smart technology. We can anticipate doors that not only open and close but also communicate with other smart devices, learn from user behaviour, and adapt to changing environments.

1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Integration: As AI technology advances, automatic doors will likely become more intuitive. AI algorithms could enable doors to learn from patterns of use, predict when maintenance is needed, or even anticipate the flow of traffic during peak hours to optimize opening and closing times.

2. Sustainability and Green Building Practices: The integration of smart technology in automatic doors will play a crucial role in sustainable building practices. By optimizing energy use and reducing unnecessary openings, these doors will contribute to lower carbon footprints and help buildings meet stricter environmental standards.

3. Universal Design and Accessibility: The future of smart automatic doors will also focus on enhancing accessibility for all users. Whether it’s through voice commands, gesture recognition, or other assistive technologies, these doors will provide greater autonomy and ease of use for individuals with disabilities.

4. Customisation and Aesthetics: As with many smart technologies, the future of automatic doors will likely include greater customisation options. Users may be able to choose door functions, materials, and finishes that not only match their aesthetic preferences but also suit their specific needs.

The integration of smart technology into automatic doors represents a significant leap forward in the functionality, efficiency, and intelligence of these systems. As this technology continues to advance, we can expect automatic doors to become even more integral to the infrastructure of modern buildings, offering enhanced security, energy efficiency, and personalized experiences. The future of automatic doors is not just about opening and closing spaces; it’s about creating smarter, safer, and more responsive environments for everyone.

Action Auto Door install and supply automatic doors in homes and businesses around Australia. Contact us for more information regarding your automatic sliding doors, automatic swing doors, automatic toilet doors and access control requirements.

Our automatic door openers are European made brands FAAC and FACE ensuring quality and affordability. Action Auto Door are NDIS Registered and experts in disability access. Contact us today for a free quote.

Electric Strikes and Automatic Doors

Electric strikes are not something you probably think of very often but they are very important for keeping your place safe and secure. You will often have the choice between an electric strike and a magnetic lock when an automatic door is being installed.

What is an Electric Strike?

An electric strike is a device used in access control systems to secure doors. It replaces a traditional strike plate in the door frame and operates by electric current. When activated, usually by a keypad, card reader, or other access control device, the electric strike temporarily releases the door’s latch or lock mechanism, allowing the door to be opened. Once the access control system signals that the door should be locked again, the electric strike re-engages, securing the door.

Electric strikes offer several advantages over traditional locks, including remote control, the ability to integrate with access control systems, and increased security because of their ability to release the door latch only when authorised. They are commonly used in commercial and industrial settings where access control and security are paramount. They can also be installed in homes and are used to allow for better access for the elderly and disabled.

When someone swipes a keycard, punches in a code, or even just gives a friendly wave at your access control system, the electric strike springs into action. It’s like a little high-five between technology and security. The door unlocks just long enough for your customers or employees to come and go, and then it’s back to business as usual.

Electric strikes aren’t just about security—they’re also about convenience. No more fumbling around with keys or worrying about who has access to which areas. With electric strikes, you’re in control, whether you’re at the counter, in the office, or even miles away.

Key Features of Electric Strikes and Automatic Doors

Electric strikes mount in the door frame
A wire runs from the strike to the motor in order to work
Electric strikes work with a handle set (often we can use the existing one installed)
When activated they let the tongue of the handle set pass them – like a gate and then lock after, when the door returns to the closed position it can lock into the strike like a normal door latch and the door locks again.
Backup for exit is the door handle, like a normal door, push down and you can exit or use a key from the other side to enter.
Electric strikes can be powered to stay locked – fail-safe – this means when no power is on the strike you can push the door open.Or power to open when required – fail-secure – this means the strike stays locked and you have security
Examples of use for these would be in your house. You would want a fail-secure or an exit to a commercial building you may want to open so people can exit quicker without pushing the handle down.
They can be monitored or unmonitored – know if they are open or closed.
They can be used with double doors if only one door is being used – cannot have 2 x doors opening and use the strike.This is because you could just push the doors open as there is nothing holding the second door locked. We also need to get the wire from the second door to the motor which can be tricky

Action Auto Door supplies and installs automatic door openers, disabled toilet door systems and automatic sliding doors across Australia. Contact us for more information and an obligation free quote. We are a NDIS Registered Provider.

Automatic Domestic Sliding Doors

Automatic Domestic Sliding Doors – Action Auto Door looks at your options when it comes to automating domestic sliding doors. Being able to move freely through your home is something that is often taken for granted. When mobility restrictions make it difficult to open and close sliding doors in the home the best option is to add an automatic door operator to the doors in your home. Below we answer some common questions in regards to automating domestic sliding doors.

Can a single panel sliding door be automated?

Yes we can normally do this, but a few things need to be considered before moving forward with an automatic domestic sliding door.

Is the door a new door?
Is the door very heavy due to weight eg – double glazed?
Does the door slide well for an able-bodied person with 2-3 fingers or is it hard for them as well?
We also cannot have curtains etc as they could get caught in the door movement, they would need to be removed.
If the door is hard to open for everyone then it will need to have the wheels replaced. It might also require the track to be capped – track capping will only be needed if the current one is damaged, you can tell by looking at the track and seeing if it’s dented and rough or smooth.
If it’s dented and rough and you don’t cap the track then the wheels wear out again quickly.
We have used this company and they have been good so far www.slidingdoordoctor.com.au.
Sometimes this is enough for clients to use without needing to automate the door.

For patio doors we retro-fit a commercial sliding door motor. The door needs to slide like new before we can install the motor and for it to function properly.

Cavity Sliding doors can also be automated more affordably with our smaller domestic cavity slider motors. We use the Topp V1 sliding motor that can be retro fitted to doors between 700mm – 1200mm wide. They are slim and can be retro-fitted to most cavity doors.

They can be set up to open and auto close or open and stay open until a button is pressed. They do not lock and if there is a power failure they can be pushed open.

Action Auto Door supplies and installs automatic door openers, automatic sliding doors, automatic swing doors and disabled toilet door systems in domestic and commercial settings. We specialise in disabled access options and are NDIS Registered. We install automatic door operators across Australia including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Adelaide, Perth , Hobart and most regional centres. Contact us for a free quote.

FACE Sliding Doors

FACE Sliding Doors are a new generation of automatic door operators that are built with efficiency, reliability and the environment in mind.

Action Auto Door are leading suppliers of FACE Sliding Doors in Sydney, Melbourne , Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Hobart, Gold Coast and all major regional areas of Australia.

FACE Sliding Doors are designed with an innovative brushless motor. What this means is that FACE automatic door motors are the most efficient and reliable automatic door motors in the Australian market.

Designed in Italy with the belief that automatic door motors need to be more efficient, energy conscious and produce less waste, the FACE motor is leading the way in the automatic door industry.

FACE Sliding Doors have designed a simple motor that is easy to install , with no gear box or battery . What this means is less waste impacting the environment and a motor that lasts at least 5 million cycles. Other operators in the Australian market have only been tested to 1 million cycles. Buying a FACE motor ensures you are buying the latest technology that is designed to last many years more than other operators in the Australian market.

With less components and engine parts this means that FACE sliding door motors require less scheduled maintenance visits. This saves you time and money over the years of your motor.

FACE has patented a supercapacitor battery that does away with the need for Lead batteries that are less efficient and significant contributors to waste and pollution. This design saw the motor awarded the R + T GOLD INNOVATION AWARD 2021. FACE continues to design and manufacture their motors with the environment and energy efficacy at the forefront of their design.

FACE sliding doors can also claim that their motors use 50% less energy than traditional automatic sliding door motors in the market. With energy costs rising the FACE motor is a logical choice when automating your sliding doors.

For more information on FACE sliding door motors or our range of automatic swing door operators contact Tim at Action Auto Door for an obligation free chat and quote. Ph: 0411 126 538 . Email. Tim@actionautodoor.com.au

Automatic Toilet Doors – Privacy Door Kits

Automatic Toilet Doors – Privacy Door Kits

Our privacy door kits are compliant with ALL Australian Building Standards. These include:

Australian standards AS 1428.1-2009 Design for access and mobility
Australian standards AS 5007-2007 Powered doors for pedestrian access and egress
NCC 2019 BCA – Building code of Australia
DDA Compliant

The automatic toilet doors privacy kits feature raised writing or tactile characters and corresponding braille on both plates indicating the buttons and LED’s, the system also features a voice prompt that will advise when the buttons are pressed. The voice recording has been updated with an Australian accent voice over.autom

How the privacy kits work step by step:

1)From the outside of the toilet – Press the “Green – Push to open” button, the automatic door opens, voice says: “Door is opening“.

The Unlocked LED indicator light on the inner panel warns that the lock button has not been pressed as its still green unlocked.

2)After entering the toilet, press the black “Push to lock” button on the inner panel to close the door. Voice: “Door is closing ,press push to lock to lock the door”;

3)The “Occupied” indicator on the outer panel lights up red and the “Locked indicator on the inner panel” lights up red

If the outside Green push button is press when occupied – the voice will say “Occupied”

and the door will not be opened.

4)The door will not be opened until the button is pressed- ” Green push to open” button, voice “door is opening”.

5) After 25 minutes the toilet will prompt that the push to lock button needs to be pressed in the next 5 minutes or the door will unlock. If the lock button is pressed the timer re-starts again. – this is to stop the door being left out of service as someone has used the handle set to leave without using the push buttons on a swing door disabled toilet set up.

Included in the automatic toilet doors privacy kit:

Inside the external plate – 1 x large green push button for entry with indicator LED lights to show if the toilet is in use with vacant – green and occupied in red

Inside the internal plate – 1 large green mushroom push button and 1 x black push button with indicator LED lights to show if the toilet is in use with vacant – green and occupied in red

The system can be used for both swing and slide set ups and with all makes and models of automatic door motors

Inside plate measures 200mm wide by 230mm high

Outside plate measures 200mm wide by 180mm high

Action Auto Door supplies and installs automatic swing doors, automatic sliding doors, disabled toilet door systems, gate openers and access control accessories. We install Australia wide and offer obligation free quotes. Contact us today for all your automatic door needs. We are NDIS Registered.

Automatic Doors and The Environment

Automatic Doors and The Environment – We don’t often get asked about the environmental credentials and benefits of our automatic door operators. With energy costs rising and concerns about environmental waste it’s now becoming a topic of interest.

FACE Automatic Door Systems take pride in being the leaders in a new generation of environmentally friendly automatic doors.

With the environment front and centre FACE motors are designed and manufactured in a way that lessens their impact on the planet. The automatic door operators are a simple design that creates less waste.

The brushless gear box free motors are designed with simple and recyclable components.

Lead batteries have been substituted with supercapacitor technology. What is a supercapacitor you ask and what are its advantages?

Longer lifespan
No temperature sensitivity in terms of charge or product lifespan
No toxic chemical products or heavy metals
No hazardous waste or waste disposal cost
No transportation restrictions and higher shipping costs
Cheaper in the long term

With components that are leading the way in lessening their environmental impact. FACE motors were awarded the R & T Innovation Award in 2021.

With energy costs increasing at an alarming rate it is important that automatic door operators are as energy efficient as possible. FACE again are the leaders in energy efficiency. A FACE operator is 50% more energy efficient than any other operator in the market. Along with the fact the motors last 5 times longer than other operators in the market you can be sure you will save money in the long run when choosing a FACE motor. Better for the environment and money saving. What more could you ask for in an automatic door operator?

Action Auto Door supply and install FACE automatic door motors and other leading European automatic door openers throughout Australia. We are experts in disabled access and are NDIS Registered providers. With installers in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Hobart, Canberra , Gold Coast and major regional centres contact us for an ob ligation free quote.