What is a power-assist and Push&Go operator.

Automatic doors are more than just a convenience—they’re a necessity in today’s world of accessibility, safety, and efficiency and in many jurisdictions, they are also part of the building code. But not all automatic doors operate in the same way. Building managers, property owners, and contractors are often surprised to learn that different activation modes exist within automatic door operators, each serving unique purposes.

In this article, we’ll break down three commonly confused features:

1. Standard Automatic (Button or Sensor Activation)

2. Push&Go

3. Power Assist

These aren’t separate machines; rather, they are features or settings available in certain automatic door operators (Record, Stanley, NABCO, Besam, etc). Not all models include all three functions, and some may lack these features entirely. Understanding these differences is key to selecting the best solution for your building.

1. Standard Automatic: Button or Sensor Activation

This is what most people think of when they hear “automatic door.”

The door opens fully when someone triggers it with:

• A wall-mounted push button

• A wave-to-open sensor

• A motion sensor above the door

The user doesn’t need to push the door itself; they just need to activate the trigger. Once activated, the operator takes over, fully opening and then closing the door.

When to use:

• Universal washrooms (push buttons or wave sensors for hands-free exit)

• Entrances with heavy traffic

• Buildings prioritizing accessibility compliance

• Bicycle storage areas, secure storage rooms, and parkade entrances

Key point: Once activated, the machine operates entirely on its own, while maintaining the option to operate the door manually, based on preference.

2. Push&Go: Touch-Activated Automatic Opening

Push&Go is a different approach to convenience. Instead of using a button or sensor, the user simply applies a gentle push on the door leaf. This touch doesn’t open the door by force - it just signals the operator to take over.

Think of it as a shortcut: you tap the door, and it swings open automatically.

Benefits:

• Can be integrated with the existing automatic door; it does not replace it.

• Intuitive operation (people naturally try to push doors)

• Maintains accessibility while keeping traffic flow smooth

Key point: Push&Go is still fully automatic; the push is only the trigger.

Supporting operators:

• Stanley - Magic Access

• NABCO - GT710 / GT8710

• Falcon - 8200 Series

• Cal-Royal - 8601

• ASSA ABLOY / Besam - SW60

• Entrematic (Ditec) / Record - HA8-LP & HA7

• Lockmasters - LKM7550L

• Horton - 4000 / 7000 Series

3. Power Assist: Motor-Assisted Opening

Power Assist feels different from the other two. Here, the operator doesn’t open the door automatically. Instead, it reduces the amount of force needed for someone to push the door manually.

It’s like power steering in a car - you still turn the wheel, but the motor makes it easier.

When to use:

• Low-traffic doors where full automation isn’t necessary

• Doors where energy conservation is important

• Areas where occasional assistance is enough (e.g., office doors)

• Heavy doors where a little assistance is needed to open the door

Accessibility note: While easier than a manual door, Power Assist doesn’t fully meet accessibility requirements in all situations because some people may not have the strength to push at all.

Key point: User pushes, motor helps, but it’s not a hands-free system.

Supporting operators: Nabco, Stanley, Ditec, Record, Dormakaba

Side-by-Side Comparison Chart

Feature / Mode	Standard Automatic (Button/Sensor)	Push-to-Go (Touch-Activated)	Power Assist
Trigger	Button, wave sensor, or motion sensor	Gentle push on door leaf	Manual push
Who does the work?	100% operator	100% operator	Shared: user + operator
Accessibility	Fully accessible (hands-free option)	Fully accessible	Partially accessible
User Experience	Press/wave → door opens	Light push → door opens	Push → motor reduces effort
Best for	High traffic, washrooms, main entries	Clean design, intuitive use	Low traffic, energy saving
Machine Type	Same operator, different setting	Same operator, feature option	Same operator, feature option
Availability	Very common	Available in certain models	Available in certain models

Why These Differences Matter

Understanding these differences helps avoid common mistakes during planning and construction. For example:

• Compliance issues: A door with only Power Assist might not meet accessibility codes, while Standard Automatic opener will.

• User confusion: Tenants or visitors might expect a door to be automatic when it’s only power-assisted, leading to frustration.

• Budgeting decisions: Selecting the right brand and model allows for more effective budget planning.

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Not All Automatic Doors Include These Features

It’s important to note:

• These are modes of operation, not separate machines.

• Not all automatic door operators support Push & Go or Power Assist.

• Choosing the right model at the start avoids costly upgrades later.

Final Thoughts

Automatic doors aren’t one-size-fits-all. Whether you need fully automatic, Low-energy, buttons or sensors, the sleek option of Push & Go, or Power Assist, knowing the difference ensures your building is safe, accessible, and user-friendly.

When planning your next installation, ask your supplier or installer which features your operator supports. The right choice depends on traffic levels, accessibility needs, and design preferences.

For more information, contact Push to Open Doors for a free consultation and a free system design.