1. JVR Automatic Door Opener Kit
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JVR Automatic Door Opener Kit
Specifications
- Door Lifting Capacity: up to 22 lbs.
- Powered by: 4 AA batteries supplied or electric powered via USB cable
- Door size: 11 13/16 inch wide, 12 9/16 inch high
- Made of: Heavy-duty aluminum alloy
- Highlights: Timer controller and actuator motor, 16 ON/OFF programs setting
- Warranty: 1-year
It has gained popularity over the years through its
top-quality construction, convenient design, and the use of the
latest technology in providing superior safety conditions. The set includes the opener, the door, an actuator, all the mounting hardware, and an instruction guide that comprises large illustrations to allow you to put things together fast and start enjoying the convenience this unit offers.
Heavy-Duty Construction
The door is made of aluminum and measures 11.81” in width and 12.56” in height. Thus, it is taller and larger than the standard models and can fit not only fowls but turkeys, geese, ducks, and other large birds. It is a slide model, actioned by the solid motor with the help of the actuator. Considering that the regular cord has been replaced by a sturdy metal bar, you can expect enhanced security. The manufacturer even guarantees that bears won’t be able to lift the door once it is closed. Furthermore, with the motor being able to lift up to 22 lbs., you can be certain that it can face the weight of the door and even heavier doors if you ever decide to replace it.
Advanced Safety Technology
As it will lift and lower over your poultry’s heads, you will want to confirm that nothing will happen to them. Well, apart from the strong motor that can sustain the weight of the door, guaranteeing that accidents cannot happen, this unit has been provided with a smart sensor that senses if a chicken is located under the door and stops the mechanism until the path is clear.
With a 1-year service contract, it is backed against manufacturing flaws, and you will get telephonic assistance in case you cannot put it together or something doesn’t seem to work as it should.
Convenient Use
Its purpose is to ease your work and allow you to go on vacations without having to ask somebody to take care of your hens. Thus you can set a time for it to open and one to close, which can coincide with the sunrise and sunset in your area. Although this would be a manual operation (it doesn’t offer a photocell for automatic programming), you will be able to do it with ease, as the control panel has big buttons and everything is well labeled. Plus, you can set it in advance for up to 7 days. You can also manage the door by hand with the push of a button in case a power outage occurs.
You can either connect it to an AC or DC power source. Moreover, if you decide to go green, it is good to know that you can acquire a DC12V solar battery and connect your unit to a solar panel.
PROS
- Easy to set up
- It offers a 1-year service contract
- Integrated timer
- It comes as an installation kit
- Numerous programmable settings included
Verdict
This model has been made with 16 on/off settings and a manual override. Therefore, you will have full control over its operation. It’s also 7-days programmable, hence, it doesn’t necessitate thorough maintenance. If you want to open it by hand, simply press the labeled button.
2. Coop Controls Automatic Coop Door Opener Kit
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Coop Controls Automatic Coop Door Opener Kit
Specifications
- Door Lifting Capacity: up to 10 lbs.
- Powered by: 12V battery or recharged with UL Listed Transformer or Solar Panel
- Fits: 16 inches to 30 inches wide doors (swing-type doors)
- Made of: Heavy-duty materials
- Highlights: Adjustable Delay to Open and Delay to Close Settings up to 60 minutes each.
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty on motor and gear assembly, 6-month warranty on electronics
With a
lift capability of 10 pounds, this model can lift doors that present light to moderate-heavy construction. It
will fit swinging doors measuring 16” to 30” in width, which are larger than standard models and usually used on commercial coops, so make sure to measure your door opening before making a purchase.
Although it is an automated model, it enables you to operate it manually with the help of a pushbutton. Furthermore, you can give your fowls time to go through the door with the delay function, which allows you to set a duration for the door to open and close. Thus, it can take up to 60 minutes until these operations are complete.
Regarding the operating mechanism, it is truly innovative, as it employs a photosensor to take photos of the sunset and the sunrise. The system compares the newly-taken photos with the pre-recorded images and decides when it is time to open (sunrise) and shut (sunset) the door. This operation happens automatically.
Inside the package, you will find the opener along with all the necessary hardware and an owner’s manual to get it installed on the spot. It can be run by using a photovoltaic battery, but you will need to acquire it separately. Nonetheless, note that the service contract covers it for a lifetime, while the electronic parts get good 6-month coverage.
PROS
- Integrated photo sensor
- System control box with control board
- Pushbutton to manually operate door
- It comes as an installation kit
- Lifetime warranty
CONS
- Installation can be a bit demanding
- If you want to connect it to a solar panel, you will need to buy the photovoltaic battery separately
Verdict
The kit offers all the accessories and hardware to make this system functional, so you will be able to automate the door as soon as you get it out of the box. Plus, with the innovative expertise that stands behind it, it can provide convenience and save you a lot of effort.
3. Add-A-Motor D20
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Specifications
- Door Lifting Capacity: up to 10 lbs.
- Suitable for: Door openings up to 25” and more
- Accommodates: Any type chicken coop door including wood, plastic or metal
- Safety feature: Safe connector
- Highlights: Reversible motor with adjustable stop function
- Warranty: 1-year
It comes with a forceful motor and a
12V battery system and works great with almost any door material under 10 lbs., including plastic, wood, and aluminum. It is a great way to defense your fowls and eggs throughout the night. Aside from being efficient and quite easy to use, it is also very affordable. While the kit doesn’t include a door,
it will fit door openings that have a width of 25 inches or broader. The universal door connector makes it fit for all types of doors, while the AC power adapter allows you to hook it up to a household outlet and keep it powered every moment of the day. The battery option is also available, and you can get it powered with a 12V battery system.
Similar to the above products, it is watertight and dust resistant. It is made to resist extreme meteorological conditions, so there will be no issues or problems with jams or other things. It is also worth mentioning that it measures 4.2 x 2.5 x 2.2 inches and weighs less than 2 lbs. Besides, it is backed by a standard 1-year service contract that will keep you covered in case of mishaps.
PROS
- It can be used for multiple doors
- Its motor operates automatically
- It includes a door safety connector
- Simple to use and set up
- Great price
CONS
- The cable is not very sturdy, and you may need to replace it, but once you do it, you will not encounter any problems
- The hardware is made of plastic, which makes it resistant to weather elements, but may crack or get damaged in the long run
Verdict
It is a good match if you are on a limited budget. It is trouble-free to use and program. Furthermore, it can be used for multiple doors, which is a major perk, considering that most models are not as versatile and reliable.
4. ChickenGuard Extreme ASTx
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ChickenGuard Extreme ASTx
Specifications
- Door Lifting Capacity: up to 8 lbs.
- Made of: The device come with a weather proof casing and fully encapsulated in epoxy resin
- Accommodates: 12″ x 16″ doors
- Safety feature: Timer and light sensor
- Highlights: LCD screen
- Warranty: 3-year
It
can easily lift doors up to 8 lbs. that measure 12″ in width and 16″ in height. It runs on 4 x AA batteries or it can be electric-powered via USB. It incorporates a timer and a light sensor, therefore you can opt to rely on either of them to get the door to move.
Moreover, it comes with a marker that signals that the door is shut and can be seen from 100 yards distance. It is watertight, hence, it can be used even in severe environmental conditions. It is also worth mentioning that it is provided with an easy to read LCD that allows you to see timings as well as current operations.
The service contract is generous, as 3 years are offered for manufacturing flaws or mishaps that didn’t occur by the user’s fault.
PROS
- Easy to install
- Long battery life
- Built-in timer
- Built-in light sensor
- Saves energy and time
CONS
- Some customers considered the directions to be a bit unclear
- Cannot lift large, heavy doors
Verdict
It is an interesting model that comes with a plethora of impressive qualities, counting a timer and light sensor. Due to these sensors, it will open and shut the door on its own. Although it is more expensive than other similar models, it still is a great option to consider.
5. Brinsea Products Chicken Coop Door Opener
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Brinsea Products Chicken Coop Door Opener
Specifications
- Door Lifting Capacity: up to 8 lbs.
- Powered by: 4 AA batteries supplied or electric powered via USB cable
- Design: All-in-One design – fully exterior grade weatherproof aluminum finish
- Temperature operating range: 5 to 120°F
- Highlights: Integrated timer and light sensor
- Warranty: 3-year
It presents an all-in-one design and a plethora of interesting yet useful features. It presents a
timer that allows you to program it and a
light sensor that will help you keep the chicken safe during the night. The settings are easy to select due to the straightforward digital display.
The unit could be either powered by 4 x AA batteries or via USB cable. It can endure temperatures from 5 to 120F. What we really like about this system is the fact that it is more hardwearing than many other similar units. It comes with an exterior-grade aluminum door that makes it resist even under the most extreme meteorological conditions. The motor can lift doors weighing up to 8 lbs., and the kit contains one, measuring 9″ by 12″. Moreover, it is warranted for 3 years of utilization, a more generous service contract than the one offered by other brands.
PROS
- Easy installation
- Light sensor
- Built-in timer
- Easy to read display
- Low battery indicator
CONS
- Can be demanding to install it
- Customer service is rather poor
Verdict
It is well built, durable, and easy to set up. It presents a digital display that allows you to change its settings more quickly. Paralleled to other models, it is a bit more expensive, but the investment will totally pay off in the long run.
6. Cheeper Keeper
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Specifications
- Door Lifting Capacity: up to 6.5 lbs.
- Size: 8.5 inch by 13 inch aluminum door
- Motor: Powerful yet quiet steel geared motor
- Safety feature: Triple varnished circuit board
- Highlights: Adjustable LED light sensor
- Warranty: 1-year money back or complete replacement guarantee
It is powered by 4 x AA batteries and needs no electrical outlet. It has a durable construction that is going to last longer. This
waterproof unit is equipped with a photoelectric switch along with a
stainless steel door that is 8.5-inch by 13”. Besides, it is supplied with dust and dirt resistance as well as UV and humidity resistance.
According to the company, it was tested for working under tough meteorological conditions and there are no issues. As compared to its above competitors, it lacks certain features, such as an LCD. However, although it doesn’t have one, it still is very easy to read and use. It uses innovative technology and it is a high-end option.
The motor can action doors as heavy as 6.5 lbs, so it is a good fit for lighter models. Moreover, it is provided with a sensor that pauses the door if a chicken is detected below it. The service contract is also generous, as, within 1 year of use, you can either get your money back or a new product, if the one you’ve acquired proves to be faulty.
PROS
- Integrated photoelectric switch controls
- It opens and shuts the door with ease
- Trustworthy and versatile
- It works great under extreme meteorological conditions
- It is watertight
CONS
- Difficult to calibrate
- Some clients reported the batteries running out too fast
Verdict
It is easy to use and install and presents a lot of features including a photoelectric switch. It is powered by 4 x AA batteries. Moreover, it is a powerful device that works great and employs innovative technology to offer convenience and comfort.
7. Incubator Warehouse
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Specifications
- Door Lifting Capacity: N/A
- Door Size: 13” x 10”
- Design: Weather-proof fiberglass door with 2 anodized aluminum channel rail
- Safety feature: Automatic timer – set the opening and closing time
- Highlights: Linear actuator and automatic timer
- Warranty: 1-year
It is automatic, extremely resistant, and comes with a timer controller. The
door is made of weather-proof fiberglass while its two rails are made of anodized aluminum channel rail.
The door measures 13” x 10” while the rails are 24” long. Moreover, the door is operated by a forceful motor that works on a set schedule. Due to the automated timer, the door will be shut and opened on that customized schedule. What we like about this model is the fact that it works horizontally and vertically as well. It is also worth mentioning that it is more affordable than many other models. It comes at a reasonable price and it is covered by a 1-year warranty. Overall, it is a nice option to take into consideration when making such a purchase.
PROS
- Easy to set up
- 1-year warranty
- Powerful motor
- Timer control
CONS
- Programming it can be a bit challenging
- The screen is rather small and difficult to read
Verdict
It is affordable, resistant, and operated by a forceful motor. It integrates an automatic timer that allows you to set the schedule according to your preferences. Overall, it is a nice pick if you are looking to make a long-term investment.
8. ChickenGuard Premium ASTi
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ChickenGuard Premium ASTi
Specifications
- Door Lifting Capacity: up to 2.2 lbs.
- Size: 12 inch x 16 inch
- Design: All-weather aluminum design
- Safety feature: Automatic timer – set the opening and closing time
- Highlights: LCD screen, automatic timer with light sensor, door closed indicator light
- Warranty: 3-year
It
comes with an aluminum door that measures 16” by 12” and an oak runner that is 24-inch long. Although it is a lightweight unit that weighs 5 lbs. only, it is
capable of lifting doors up to 2.2 lbs. It is powered by 4 AA batteries as well as electric powered via USB.
As compared to other similar devices, this one provides flexibility and reliability. Moreover, it comes with some large buttons that work fine even with large gloves on. The company offers a 3-year service contract on this product. Overall, it is a great option to consider for your coop.
PROS
- Easy installation
- Precise timer
- Light sensor
- Advanced technology
- Long warranty
CONS
- If you want to use it for a small window in which the hens can roam free, it isn’t a good match, as the programming only allows it to open at dawn and shut at dusk
- If you want to turn it off, you need to remove the battery
Verdict
Take a look at this model and you will be surprised to discover how easy to install and efficient it is. It has plenty of interesting features and uses innovative technology that other models don’t use. Furthermore, it is covered by a 3-year service contract which delivers a durable and long-lasting usage.
9. Auto Door Automatic Chicken Door
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Auto Door Automatic Chicken Door
Specifications
- Door Lifting Capacity: up to 6 lbs.
- Size: The frame measures 33” x 12” x 3”
- Design: Amish-made door ( predator proof heavy duty aluminum door with composite frame )
- Safety feature: 24-hour clock operation, scrolling speed controls and low battery/jam indicators
- Highlights: 3 operating modes – timer, manual and override
- Warranty: 1-year for the motor
This is a
heavy-duty system that helps you protect your hens. It is very easy to set up and use. It comes with a heavy-duty aluminum door with a composite frame that won’t rust or warp. Also, it features a strong polycarbonate cover that provides maximum visibility. It protects the door from cracks and scratches. The
motor can action doors as heavy as 6 lbs. that fit a 10.5″ by 12″ opening.
In comparison to many other similar items, it comes equipped with a sunrise/sunset mode.Thanks to this mode, the door is automatically opened and closed. In addition to this, this system uses 4 operating modes, such as timer, sunrise/sunset, manual, and override mode. While the timer mode allows you to set the program, the override mode will hold the door in the stand-by position. The third mode, the manual one, allows you to move the system from a place to another without losing calibrated settings. Overall, this is a good choice to consider when making a purchase, especially as the motor is covered for a period of 1 year.
PROS
- Easy fitting
- 4 operating modes
- Timer
- Easy to read display
- Strong and durable construction
CONS
- The string tends to break easily but it isn’t difficult to fix
- The buttons on the control panel are rather hard to push
Verdict
This is a strong system that keeps your fowls safe inside. Thanks to its advanced technology and impressive features, it is both versatile and easy to use.
10. Titan Incubators
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Specifications
- Door Lifting Capacity: up to 2.2 lbs.
- Made of: High-grade, and weatherproof materials
- Accommodates: No minimum or maximum door heights
- Powered by: 4 AA batteries
- Highlights: LCD screen and Elite timer
- Warranty: 2-year
It is available in only one size and it is has a metal door. It measures 23.6 x 0.8 x 13 inches and weighs less than 2 pounds. Operating it is actually very simple. The maximum door
weight the device can lift is 2.2 lbs., while the minimum recommended door weight is 0.77 lbs. Additionally, it is very important to know that it has an inbuilt timer with string and it is powered by 4 AA batteries.
In comparison to its competitors, this unit comes with a lot of accessories, including a rail, a screw, and other smaller assembling parts. All things considered, it is a great choice if you have a limited budget as it is one of the most affordable models available in the current market. Not to mention that you also get a generous 2-year service contract.
PROS
- One size fits all
- Battery operated
- LCD
- Integrated timer
CONS
- The cable that pulls the door is thin and tends to break, but you can replace it with a sturdier one at a low expense
- It can only lift light doors
Verdict
We are here to introduce a quality yet affordable device, specially made to ease your work. Driven by a strong motor and with a reliable construction, it will reduce your daily chores and pay off faster than you would imagine.
11. Happy Henhouse Automatic Opener Kit
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Happy Henhouse Automatic Opener Kit
Specifications
- Door Lifting Capacity: up to 0.5 lbs.
- Powered by: 4 AA alkaline batteries
- Safety features: Sturdy gear motor stops door if your chicken gets in the way
- Made of: All metal door
- Highlights: Weatherproof controller, adjustable automatic light sensor
- Warranty:
As a farmer, there is nothing more imperative than your animal’s safety. Therefore, to help you keep your fowls safe in their coops, we want to present you with an efficient model that automatically shuts and opens with the sun or with the timer. First, you will find this particularly useful as it can be set to open and shut at the desired hour. From now on you won’t be forced anymore to wake up with the daybreak and let your fowls out. Also, throughout the night, they will be shielded from predators.
You shouldn’t worry about rain or humid weather. It is waterproof and resists well to extreme meteorological conditions. Its 4 AA alkaline batteries guarantee long life from 6 to 9 months. As compared to some of the above opponents, it comes with an adaptable automatic light sensor that is charged by sunlight. It activates the controller to open and shut the door. The metal casing measures 0.4 x 9 x 24 inches and weighs 2.6 lbs. It fits lighter doors that measure 8″ by 10″, as the motor can only lift a weight of 1/2 lbs.
PROS
- Adaptable automatic light sensor
- Solid metal door
- Powered by 4 AA alkaline batteries
- Weatherproof opener
CONS
- Can only lift very light doors
- The instructions can be hard to follow
Verdict
Looking for a watertight model that can be easily installed? Then, this is exactly what you are looking for. With lots of interesting features, counting a timer, adaptable automatic light sensor, sleek design, and many others, it proves to be one of the most effective models available for sale these days.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size should the door of a chicken coop be?
It should be between 10″ and 16″ high and 8″ to 12″ wide. It should be placed 6-inch off the ground. Some models have an automatic system that can be set to open early in the morning and shut late in the evening. Others instead should be operated by hand with locks that are secure against predators.
How does an automatic chicken coop door opener work?
Some systems work with batteries while others need an electrical outlet. They are powered by a small motor that, when triggered, will start running. Plus, they use sensors to pull the door up and down and let the fowls in and out.
How long does it stay open?
It depends on the model. Some systems are made to remain open all day long until the sun goes down, while others remain open for 5 seconds only.
Should I install the motor inside or outside the coop?
We recommend placing the motor inside the coop to protect it from bad weather.
Can a hen get caught under the door?
Absolutely not! Each system uses motion sensors to detect movement nearby. It automatically opens when something moves around so it’s almost impossible for a hen to be caught under the door.
Are all the openers waterproof?
Some openers are waterproof and resist well to harsh meteorological conditions, while others are weather-resistant and require protection from direct, heavy rain.
How to protect the opening system against rain?
Use a simple cover for protection or build a roof over the door.
Should the door be installed horizontally or vertically for better operation?
It can be installed in both ways. The only problem you might have when installing the door horizontally concerns the motor that might become filled with dirt.
Can the system keep the door locked at night so predators cannot enter?
The opener does not lock the door. It just slides down the rails and rests in a closed position. However, if the door is from metal, it could be quite difficult for a raccoon to lift it and get its claw under it.
Do they have a remote so you can control them from the outside?
None of the above models can be operated by remote control. They feature timers to shut and open the door whenever you want it to.
Conclusion
To summarize, if you are going to upgrade your chicken coop, make sure you pick a top-quality opener that can endure the climate in your area. Also, check if it can match your door opening, if it comes with a door, and, most importantly, if it can sustain the door to which you plan to connect it.
In this direction, don’t hesitate to take a second glance at our favorites:
Best Overall:
JVR Automatic Door Opener Kit
Sturdiness is the word that best describes this kit, and you can rely on it to open and shut heavy and large doors at precise moments. The door offered is made from aluminum and, thus, resistant to harsh weather events. Moreover, as it uses an actuator to action the door instead of cable, so the problem of it breaking under pressure is eliminated. Not to mention that raccoons won’t be able to lift the door.
Our Choice:
ChickenGuard Extreme ASTx
Our choice distinguishes itself through a series of design and technology highlights. First, it comes with a watertight casing that contains all the components, so you can install it outdoors and expect it to operate perfectly even in burning sun or rain conditions. Second, as it uses both a timer and a light sensor, you can select the method to let your fowls in and out, namely by presetting the time or allowing the device to use the sunrise and sunset as time marks for this action.
Best Automatic Chicken Coop Door Opener for the Money:
Add-A-Motor D20
Among the most reliable options you can opt for at this moment, this model offers simple setup with only a few tools being required to perform it. It handles easily doors up to 25 inches and a lift capacity of 10 lbs. It comes with sturdy and durable construction that consists of solid and water-resistant materials that, even when exposed to harsh weather conditions, won’t rust or crack. It is operated by a 12V battery system that lasts for a couple of months without replacement.
Best Automatic Chicken Coop Door Opener with Timer:
ChickenGuard Premium ASTi
Due to its LCD screen that allows you to set and monitor everything related to the timer, sensor lights, and so on, we consider that this unit is by far one of the easiest to use and operate. It employs 4 AA batteries to function continuously for a couple of days, but it can also be powered via USB. Moreover, its safety features make it an option worth taking into consideration.
Best Commercial Automatic Chicken Coop Door Opener:
Coop Controls Automatic Coop Door Opener Kit
Designed to fit commercial needs, this model is the most heavy-duty in our top. The strong motor can operate wide and heavyweight doors and can be connected to a solar panel for more economical operations. It also allows you to use the delay function in case you have lots of hens that need to transit the opening. Thus it can take up to 60 minutes for the door to fully open or shut.
