Why Your DoorKing (DKS) Gate Stops Working Every Arizona Summer
The Problem: DoorKing (DKS) gates use standard components designed for moderate climates (70-100°F). Arizona's 118-122°F heat causes catastrophic failures that look like "normal wear and tear"—but they're actually heat damage.
Market Reality: 12% of Phoenix gates are DoorKing (DKS). Average lifespan: 8-12 years (rated 15-20 years).
What Should Happen: With heat-proof upgrades, your DoorKing (DKS) gate can last 10-15 years in Arizona heat.
DoorKing (DKS) by the Numbers
The 4 Ways Arizona Heat Destroys DoorKing (DKS) Gates
These aren't "random failures"—they're predictable heat damage patterns we see every summer. And they're 100% preventable with the right upgrades.
Gate moves slowly, labored motion, or stops mid-cycle.
Chain/belt tensioner slackens as metal expands in heat. DoorKing systems use spring-loaded tensioners that lose tension over time.
Metal gate tracks expand 1/4 to 3/8 inch in 120°F heat. Chains/belts need corresponding tension adjustment. Spring tensioners fatigue faster in Arizona's thermal cycling (hot day/cool night = constant expansion/contraction). After 4-5 years, springs can't maintain proper tension.
Replace coil-spring tensioners with hydraulic tensioners (same type used in commercial/industrial gates). Hydraulics maintain constant pressure regardless of temperature or spring fatigue. Also install heat-treated chain/belt that resists stretching. Your gate moves smoothly year-round.
Gate works perfectly for months, then suddenly stops. Won't respond to any command.
Thermal expansion cracks solder joints on older DKS control boards (pre-2015 models).
DKS control boards are mounted inside metal enclosures that act like ovens in Arizona sun (140-160°F internal temps). Repeated heating/cooling causes circuit board to flex microscopically, cracking solder joints. Gate works when joints are cool (morning), fails when board heats up (afternoon).
Resolder all board connections using high-temp lead-free solder (melting point 420°F vs. 370°F standard). Apply conformal coating to protect from thermal expansion cracks. Install heat sink on board and ventilation fan inside enclosure. Prevents future cracks.
Complete DoorKing (DKS) Heat-Proof Upgrades
Don't replace individual parts as they fail. Upgrade the entire system once and forget about it for 10+ years.
The Heat-Proof Package
DIY Troubleshooting Your DoorKing (DKS) Gate
Try These Steps First
Check chain/belt tension (should have 1/2 inch sag)
Manually operate gate to check for binding
Clean limit switch contacts with electrical cleaner
Verify battery backup voltage (should be 12.5-13V)
Call a Professional When...
Gate moves slowly despite proper tension
Control board fails intermittently
Chain/belt keeps loosening
Gate stops mid-cycle repeatedly
Don't waste time and money replacing parts that will fail again from heat damage.
Call for Free DiagnosisCommon Issues by DoorKing (DKS) Model
Different models have different weak points in Arizona heat
DoorKing (DKS) 1601
DoorKing (DKS) 1602
Get Your FREE Heat-Proof Diagnostic
We'll inspect your DoorKing (DKS) gate, identify heat damage, and provide a written estimate for heat-proof upgrades. No pressure, no gimmicks—just honest assessment from Arizona's gate heat specialists.