Bern FAQ – Questions and answers
Do you have any questions for us or about our products?
We have compiled the most frequently asked questions for you here. Please select from the following topics:
FAQ Garage door openers
What do you need to buy a complete garage door opener? What parts make up a complete garage door opener?
A garage door opener consists of a drive head including control unit and radio system (radio receiver with handheld transmitter), e.g., GA203, GA403, and the appropriate rail system, e.g., SZ-K, SG-K.
You will also need an emergency release if you do not have separate access to the garage (e.g., a door from the house to the garage or a door in the gate). This varies depending on the type of door. This ensures that you can still access the garage in the event of a power failure or drive malfunction.
What requirements must my gate fulfill for installation?
Your gate must meet certain technical requirements, which are described in the installation instructions.
Can I install the gate opener myself, or do I need to hire a specialist company?
The installation can be carried out by a specialist company, but with the right instructions, it is also possible to install it yourself.
How long does it take to install a garage door opener?
Installation usually takes a few hours, depending on the specific circumstances.
Is there a step-by-step guide or video for assembly?
Yes, Berner offers detailed step-by-step instructions and videos for assembly.
Can I retrofit my existing garage door with a drive?
Yes, in many cases this is possible—especially for gates manufactured after 2001. Older gates may need to be technically inspected or replaced.
There is no power connection on my garage door. Can I still operate it electrically?
Yes, with the GA101 rechargeable solar panel.
For which types of doors are Berner garage door openers suitable?
Berner garage door openers can be used for up-and-over doors, sectional doors, swing doors, and all-round doors.
Are the gate openers also suitable for heavy or large gates?
Yes, Berner offers gate openers that have been specially developed for heavy and large gates.
What criteria must be considered when selecting the drive type for a garage door?
In addition to the gate size, the functional capabilities of the drive and the number of parking spaces must be taken into account. You can obtain individual advice and a quote from your competent specialist dealer.
You can find an overview of the relevant performance data in the current brochure in the “Download” section.
How loud are the gate openers when in use?
Berner gate operators are known for their quiet operation.
How energy efficient are the drives in standby mode?
Berner gate openers are highly energy-efficient and consume minimal power in standby mode.
What is the difference between the GA101, GA203, and GA403 models?
The models differ in terms of their performance, functionality, and possible applications. GA101 is suitable for smaller gates, while GA203 and GA403 are designed for larger and heavier gates.
Which motors have Bluetooth built in?
GA 105, 106, 205, 405
Which rail system is required? And what length of rail is needed?
You can choose between a polyester/polyamide toothed belt or a durable toothed belt with steel strands.
The length of the rail depends on the door height (sectional/up-and-over door) or door width (side sectional door/all-round door). Both versions are completely silent and maintenance-free.
Does the Berner GA drive fit the Hörmann rail?
Yes, most Berner garage door openers also fit the standard Hörmann rail and can be used as replacement openers without having to install a new rail.
Which drive types have the lowest possible standby consumption?
The GA203 and GA403 drive types have a standby consumption of approx. 0.5 watts, which corresponds to approx. 1.00 € per year at current electricity prices.
Is there an emergency power supply in case of a power failure?
Yes, some models offer emergency power supply in case of a power failure.
How is the garage door opener unlocked in the event of a power failure?
In the event of a power failure, the drive can be mechanically unlocked by pulling a cord on the drive carriage.
If there is no separate access to the garage, an additional external unlocking unit is required so that it can be unlocked from the outside.
How often does a gate opener need to be serviced?
The garage door openers are completely maintenance-free.
What can I do if the drive no longer responds?
Check the power supply and connection. If you continue to experience problems, contact Berner Support.
How secure is my garage door when locked with the Berner garage door opener?
In addition to the gear motor’s self-locking mechanism, the rail is equipped with an additional mechanical anti-slip device.
Furthermore, Berner uses its modern “BiSure” radio technology, which makes unauthorized reading or scanning impossible.
What safety features are integrated (e.g., obstacle detection, emergency release)?
Berner gate openers have various safety features such as obstacle detection and emergency release.
Is a light barrier required as a safety device for a garage door opener?
A light barrier is required if the gate is located in a public area (e.g., next to the sidewalk) where automatic closing is set.
Do the drives comply with current EU standards (e.g., EN 12453)?
Yes, all Berner gate openers comply with current EU standards.
Are the products TÜV-tested or CE-certified?
Yes, the products are TÜV-tested and CE-certified.
Are the products produced sustainably?
Yes, Berner sets a high priority on sustainable production and works with its certified partner ClimatPartner to achieve this.
FAQ Entrance gates
What types of driveway gates are available?
There are mainly:
Swing gates (single or double)
Sliding gates (cantilevered or on rails)
Which material is best suited for a driveway gate?
Typical materials are: aluminum (lightweight, corrosion-resistant) and glass
Can I buy a suitable gate including drive system from Berner?
Yes, you can purchase the right yard gate, including the drive, from one of our specialist dealers.
What types of gate infills are available for entrance gates?
There are bars, slats, smooth sheet metal, double-bar grating mats, floating glass
Can I also get a fence that matches the gate?
Yes, there is a matching fence for the entrance gate in the ST-live and DT-live series.
Is it possible to integrate a parcel/mailbox column as well?
Yes, this is possible.
FAQ Radio Systems and remote control
How does control via remote control work?
Control via remote control is simple and intuitive. Each remote control is paired with the gate opener.
Can I use my smartphone to control it?
Yes, many Berner door openers can be controlled via a smartphone app.
Can the system also be controlled via voice assistants such as Alexa or Google Home?
Yes, models or accessories with app control support control via voice assistants.
Is it possible to control the drives via an app?
Yes, for selected drive types, either integrated or with the external Bluetooth receiver for retrofitting.
How many remote controls can be paired with one drive?
Several remote controls can always be paired with one drive; the exact number depends on the model.
Where can I find spare parts or accessories?
Spare parts and accessories are available from authorized distributors.
I would like to buy a new remote control. What do I need to consider?
The product names are listed on the back of the remote control. With this information, you can purchase a new remote control from your dealer.
Please contact us if you cannot find your remote control model.
You can purchase new remote controls from your dealer.
Can I still get remote controls from older generations?
Numerous systems from the last 30 years are still available. For a clear definition of the type, please refer to the corresponding designation on the back of the remote control.
For cases where no remote controls are available anymore, we offer a conversion kit (consisting of a receiver and remote control). Here you will find a complete overview of the remote controls used to date.
Can I replace the remote control battery myself?
Yes, the batteries in our remote controls can be easily replaced with the appropriate screwdriver. Please ensure that the polarity is correct and that you are using the correct replacement battery.
What type of battery do I need for my remote control?
You can find the battery type in the instructions for the remote control.
How do I start using my new remote control?
A new remote control must either be programmed into the respective receiver or copied to an existing remote control (depending on the radio system).
With the current generation of drives (e.g., GA 203/403 or “BiSure” radio system), both options are possible. The relevant documentation can be found in the operating instructions section.
Why does my gate not move when I press my remote control?
Remote control battery empty (LED not lit or flickering)
If you press the remote control and hear the drive system running but the door does not move, please check whether the drive system is unlocked.
You can find out how to lock the drive again in the respective operating instructions for the drives.
You will find the relevant documentation in our operating instructions.
If these measures do not solve the problem, please contact your specialist distributor.
Is Berner Funk compatible with other manufacturers (e.g., Hörmann)?
No, Berner radio signals can only be processed by Berner radio receivers. Third-party remote transmitters cannot control Berner drives, and Berner radio signal transmitters cannot control third-party drives. However, third-party drives can be made operable with a Berner signal transmitter using optional external radio receivers.
Can I also use the Berner Funk for other, existing gate openers?
External radio receivers and conversion kits (receivers and transmitters) are available, allowing almost all existing gate operators to be controlled using the Berner remote control.
Most Berner gate openers generally come with a 4-channel remote control so that the corresponding command buttons are available. Your specialist retailer will be happy to advise you on this.
What accessories/control devices can I use with the drive in addition to my remote control?
In addition to the remote control, other control devices such as code keypads, key switches, and push buttons can also be connected.
Light barriers, safety contact strips, and warning lights can be integrated as additional safety components. Your specialist distributor will inform you
which accessories can be used with your drive.
FAQ Swing & sliding gate openers
Can a garage gate be retrofitted with an electric motor?
Yes, Berner offers a range of swing/sliding gate openers.
Can swing and sliding gate systems with a slope be equipped with a drive system?
Yes, this is possible with certain drives using a special fitting. Please contact your specialist distributor for more information.
How do I find out which garage door opener is right for my gate?
Preferably through a specialist retailer.
What safety features are included in the swing/sliding gate opener?
Integrated automatic shut-off, light barriers as accessories
FAQ Perimeter security
Are there mobile or temporary solutions for cordoning off public areas?
Yes, for example, mobile vehicle barriers such as the “SafetyGuard,” which can be set up without permanent anchoring—ideal for events or construction sites.
What types of bollards are available?
Fixed bollards, semi-automatic bollards, automatic bollards
How secure are bollards?
Bollards are weather-resistant, vandal-proof, and comply with international safety standards.
What is the maximum barrier length of an electric barrier?
The maximum boom length is 8 m.
What should be considered when choosing the location for an electric barrier?
Traffic volume, vehicle types, power supply, and space for barrier arms and accessories
What to do in the event of a power failure? How can the barrier be unlocked?
In the event of a power failure, the barrier can be unlocked and pushed open manually.
Other frequently asked questions
Where can I find the address of a specialist retailer who is familiar with Berner products? (I can't remember who my retailer was.)
Please contact our head office in Rottenburg on 07472/98120. You will be put through to a member of our expert staff, who will find the right specialist dealer for you from our dealer directory, or send us an email at fachhaendler@berner-torantriebe.de.
What types of gate openers does Berner offer (e.g., for garages, industrial gates, sliding gates)?
Berner offers a wide range of door openers for various applications, including garage doors, industrial doors, swing gates, and sliding gates.
Does Berner offer an installation service?
Yes, Berner offers a professional installation service through its specialist companies.
Who can help me with technical problems?
The Bern support team is available to assist you with any technical issues.
Are there any programs for taking back or recycling old drives?
Yes, Berner offers programs for the return and recycling of old drives. You can find more information about the disposal of electrical appliances here.
Is there a warranty on the products? If so, how long?
Yes, Berner offers a warranty on its products. The duration varies depending on the model.
Where can I buy Berner gate openers—directly or through retailers?
Berner gate openers can be purchased through authorized retailers.
Is there an overview of prices and models?
Yes, you can find an overview of our models on the Berner website.
How long does delivery take after ordering?
Delivery time depends on location and availability, usually a few days.