Picking the best automatic chicken coop door requires thought and research. As chicken keepers wanting to know about the best products available on the market, we did the hard work for you and spent hours of researching and finding the most functional and value for money automatic chicken coop doors available to add to your chicken coop.
Automatic chicken coop doors are a useful and convenient product that can make your life as a chicken keeper easier and safer for your flock. After hours of looking and comparing we have put together our research on the top 3 automatic chicken coop doors on the market.
Our picks are based off looking at factors such as quality materials, versatility, ease of use, predator proofing, maintenance requirements and other practical features.
Read on to learn about some of the most important factors to account for when looking for an automatic chicken coop door and discover the best options we have shortlisted in our research.
What this article covers
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Considerations for Automatic Chicken Coop Doors
There are many different types of automatic chicken coop doors available on the market. The right one for you is going to depend on the chicken coop set up you have, how remotely you want to operate it, the level of tech and functionality you want the automatic coop door to have and the type of environment you live in. We have discussed the main considerations for automatic chicken coop doors below.
Power Source
One of the first things to consider when choosing an automatic chicken coop door is the power source. There are three main options: electricity, batteries, and solar panels. Each one has its advantages and disadvantages, depending on your coop location, budget, and preferences.
- Electricity: This option requires an outlet nearby, which may not be available if your coop is far from your house or other buildings. However, it is very reliable and does not need frequent replacement or maintenance.
- Batteries: This option does not need an outlet, but it requires regular battery replacement, which can add to the cost and hassle of the device. You also need to check the battery level often to make sure it is working properly.
- Solar panels: This option is eco-friendly and does not need an outlet or battery replacement. However, it depends on the amount of sunlight available, which may vary depending on the season, weather, and coop location. You also need to clean the solar panel regularly to keep it efficient.
Opening Mechanism
Another thing to consider when choosing an automatic chicken coop door is the opening mechanism. There are two main types: timer-based and light sensor-based. Each one has its pros and cons, depending on your chicken’s routine, coop design, and personal preference.
- Timer-based: This type allows you to set an exact time for the door to open and close every day. You have complete control over your chicken’s schedule, but you need to adjust the timer periodically to match the changing daylight hours.
- Light sensor-based: This type uses a light sensor to detect the level of daylight outside and open and close the door accordingly. You don’t have to worry about adjusting the timer, but you need to make sure the light sensor is not affected by artificial lights or shadows that may trigger it incorrectly.
Door Size and Design
Another thing to consider when choosing an automatic chicken coop door is the door size and design. You need to make sure the door fits your coop opening and your chicken size. You also need to make sure the door is secure and durable enough to withstand predators and weather conditions.
- Door size: The door size should be large enough for your chickens to pass through comfortably, but not too large that it wastes energy or allows predators to enter. The average door size for a chicken coop is about 12 x 12 inches, but you may need a bigger or smaller one depending on your flock size and breed.
- Door design: The door design should be sturdy and smooth enough to slide up and down without jamming or hurting your chickens. It should also have a lip or a lock that prevents predators from lifting or breaking it when it is closed. Some doors are made of metal, wood, or plastic, each with its own benefits and drawbacks.
Additional Features
Some automatic chicken coop doors may have additional features that can enhance their functionality and convenience. These features may include:
- Manual override: This feature allows you to open and close the door manually in case of power failure or emergency.
- Safety sensors: This feature prevents the door from closing if there is an obstacle in its way, such as a chicken or a branch.
- Wi-Fi capability: This feature allows you to monitor and control the door remotely using your smartphone or computer.
- LED lights: This feature provides extra illumination for your chickens when they enter or exit the coop.
Our 3 Top Choices for the Automatic Chicken Coop Doors
The following are our top 3 picks for the best automatic chicken coop doors for your flock.
Run Chicken Automatic Chicken Coop Door
Run Chicken automatic chicken coop doors are smart devices that can open and close the door of your chicken coop automatically at sunrise and sunset, or at a set time that you can customize. They are designed to be easy to install, durable, waterproof, and safe for your chickens. They also have a mobile app that lets you control the settings and check the status of the door from your phone.
There are two models of Run Chicken automatic chicken coop doors: the T50 and the E50. The T50 is their standard model that runs on two AA batteries that last for a year. The E50 is their solar-powered model that runs on two rechargeable batteries that are charged by a solar panel. Both models have a light sensor and a timer that can be toggled, and a safety closing sensor that prevents crushing the chickens.
Some of the Pros 👍 of the Run Chicken Automatic Coop Door are:
- Pre-assembled and easy to install
- Sturdy and high quality, made of full aluminum
- Waterproof and works well in all weather conditions
- Works with an app that lets you customize the settings and check the status of the door – remote operation.
- Has a light sensor and a timer that can be toggled
- Has a safety closing sensor that prevents crushing the chickens
- Has a quality battery life that lasts for a year or a solar panel option
- Affordable price
Some of the Cons 👎 of the Run Chicken Automatic Chicken Coop Door are:
- Impossible to install the sensor on the outside while the door is on the inside
- Only runs on batteries or solar, no DC power supply
Overall, the Run Chicken coop door was voted ‘Best Overall’ automatic door in a big automatic chicken coop door test. It has received positive reviews from customers who appreciate its weatherproof design, self-locking feature, and protection sensor to prevent injury to chickens. However, some users have noted that it can be difficult to install the sensor on the outside while the door is on the inside and that it only runs on batteries or solar power, with no option for a DC power supply.
Omlet Automatic Chicken Coop Door
The Omlet Automatic Chicken Coop Door is a battery-powered device that can open and close your chicken coop door automatically, using either a timer or a light sensor. It is designed to work with any wooden chicken coop, as well as the Eglu Cube Mk1 and Mk2. It has a metal gear and a powerful electric motor that make it secure and reliable in all weather conditions. It also has built-in safety sensors that prevent the door from closing if there is an obstacle.
Some of the Pros 👍 of the Omlet Automatic Chicken Coop Door are:
- It gives you flexibility and control over your chicken’s routine, as you can choose when to open and close the door according to your preferences by using a timer.
- It improves the security and insulation of your coop, as it prevents predators from lifting or breaking the door when it is closed.
- It saves you time and hassle, as you don’t have to manually open and close the door every day, especially in the dark or bad weather.
- It is easy to install and use, as it comes with everything you need to attach it to your coop or run, and has a simple control panel with clear instructions.
- It is battery-powered, so you don’t need a nearby power source or wiring.
Some of the Cons 👎 of the Omlet Automatic Chicken Coop Door are:
- It is slightly more expensive compared to other automatic chicken coop door openers on the market.
- It requires regular battery replacement, which can add to the cost and maintenance of the device. Batteries last for 6 months.
- It may not work well with very small or very large chickens, as they may not trigger the light sensor or fit through the door comfortably.
- It may not suit every coop design or location, as it needs enough space and light to operate properly.
- Not recommended to connect to solar power.
- Can not operate remotely.
Overall, the Omlet Automatic Chicken Coop Door is a high-quality and convenient product that can make your life as a chicken keeper easier and safer. However, it may not be suitable for everyone’s budget or needs, so you should consider your own situation and preferences before buying it.
FarmLite Automatic Chicken Coop Door
FarmLite is a company that sells an automatic chicken coop door that can be powered by either a power cord or solar setup. It is the only automatic chicken coop door opener with infrared protection sensing to keep your chickens safe while the door is closing.
Some of the Pros 👍 of the FarmLite Automatic Chicken Coop Door are:
- No dead batteries: The door can be powered by a power cord or solar setup, so you don’t have to worry about dead batteries.
- Infrared protection sensing: The door has an infrared sensor to detect if chickens are underneath the door before it closes, preventing any accidents.
- Comes with a remote control for operation – no need to venture outside.
- Affordable: The FarmLite Automatic Chicken Coop Door is one of the most affordable automatic chicken coop doors on the market.
Some of the Cons 👎 of the FarmLite Automatic Chicken Coop Door are:
- Battery levels: If you choose to power the door with batteries, you will need to check the battery levels regularly.
- Instructions: The kit does not come with comprehensive instructions, which may make installation more difficult for some users.
- Customer service: Some customers have reported that customer service can be hit and miss.
Overall, the FarmLite Automatic Chicken Coop Door has received positive reviews from customers for its affordability, functionality, and safety features. It was voted as the ‘Most Affordable Kit’ in a big automatic chicken coop door test. However, some customers have noted that the instructions could be more comprehensive and that customer service could be improved.
In Conclusion
Automatic chicken coop doors are a great investment for any chicken keeper who wants to save time, hassle, and worry. They offer convenience, security, and peace of mind for you and your flock. They can also help you avoid predators, weather, and human errors that can harm your chickens.
Overall our favourite is the Run Chicken automatic coop door as we believe it offers the best range of overall features and we especially love that we can operate it via app on our phones.
We also highly recommend the Omlet and FarmLite automatic chicken coop doors as well because these are also fabulous high quality choices for anyone who wants to upgrade their chicken coop with high technology and maximum security.
All off these automatic coop doors are great choices and were narrowed down from many options available on the market. These smart devices will modernise your coop, will make your life easier and your chickens happier by not having to wait for you to open and close their coop!
FAQs
Below we have put together the most commonly asked questions about automatic chicken coop doors.
Why do I need an automatic chicken coop door?
An automatic chicken coop door can make your life easier and safer as a chicken keeper. It can open and close the door for your chickens automatically, using either a timer or a light sensor. This way, you don’t have to worry about getting up early or coming home late to let your chickens in or out. It can also protect your chickens from predators and weather conditions by keeping the door securely closed when needed.
How does an automatic chicken coop door work?
An automatic chicken coop door works by either a timer or a light sensor. A timer-based door allows you to set an exact time for the door to open and close every day. You have complete control over your chicken’s schedule, but you need to adjust the timer periodically to match the changing daylight hours. A light sensor-based door uses a light sensor to detect the level of daylight outside and open and close the door accordingly. You don’t have to worry about adjusting the timer, but you need to make sure the light sensor is not affected by artificial lights or shadows that may trigger it incorrectly.
What are the benefits of an automatic chicken coop door?
Some of the benefits of an automatic chicken coop door are:
- It gives you flexibility and control over your chicken’s routine, as you can choose when to open and close the door according to your preferences or the daylight level.
- It improves the security and insulation of your coop, as it prevents predators from lifting or breaking the door when it is closed, and keeps the cold air out.
- It saves you time and hassle, as you don’t have to manually open and close the door every day, especially in the dark or bad weather.
- It is easy to install and use, as it comes with everything you need to attach it to your coop, and has a simple control panel with clear instructions.
- It is battery-powered or solar-powered, so you don’t need a nearby power source or wiring.
What are the drawbacks of an automatic chicken coop door? Some of the drawbacks of an automatic chicken coop door are:
- It is relatively expensive compared to manual doors, and may not fit every budget or need.
- It requires regular battery replacement or solar panel cleaning, which can add to the cost and maintenance of the device.
- It may not work well with very small or very large chickens, as they may not trigger the light sensor or fit through the door comfortably.
- It may not suit every coop design or location, as it needs enough space and light to operate properly.
- It may malfunction or fail due to weather conditions, battery issues, or mechanical problems.
How do I clean an automatic chicken coop door and how often?
- Turn off the power source of the automatic chicken coop door, whether it is electric, battery-powered, or solar-powered. This will prevent any accidental opening or closing of the door while you are cleaning it.
- Remove any dirt, dust, or debris from the door and the sliding mechanism using a soft brush or cloth. You may also use a mild soap and water solution to wipe down the door and the sliding mechanism, but make sure to dry them thoroughly afterwards.
- Check the door and the sliding mechanism for any signs of rust, corrosion, or damage. If you find any, you may need to replace or repair them as soon as possible to prevent further deterioration or malfunction.
- Lubricate the door and the sliding mechanism with a suitable lubricant, such as silicone spray or grease. This will help them move smoothly and prevent any squeaking or sticking.
- Turn on the power source of the automatic chicken coop door and test its operation. Make sure it opens and closes properly and safely, without any obstruction or interference.
- Repeat these steps regularly, depending on how often you use your automatic chicken coop door and how dirty it gets. A good rule of thumb is to clean it at least once every season.
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