The Ultimate Guide to Automatic Turkey Coop Doors

Raising backyard turkeys has become increasingly popular in recent years However, letting your turkeys freely range while also keeping them safe can be a chore This is where an automatic turkey coop door comes in handy!

In this comprehensive guide we’ll cover everything you need to know about automatic turkey coop doors including how they work top models, installation and programming tips. By the end, you’ll be ready to automate your turkey coop and make life easier.

What is an Automatic Turkey Coop Door Exactly?

An automatic turkey coop door is a specially designed door that opens and closes your coop automatically at set times. It consists of:

• A motorized door panel that slides up and down.

• A control box that houses the motor and electronic components.

• A power source like a solar panel, battery or AC adapter.

• Optional sensors like a photocell that detects daylight.

The door runs on low voltage DC power to slide up and down on a track, allowing your turkeys access to the outdoor run. The control box can be programmed or use sensors to open at sunrise and close at sunset daily.

Automatic doors eliminate the need to manually open and close the coop each day. They provide convenience while keeping your flock safe from predators at night when they are most vulnerable.

Benefits of Using an Automatic Turkey Coop Door

There are many advantages to installing an automated coop door:

• Hands-free operation – Doors open/close automatically each day. No more running outside multiple times to let birds in and out!

• Customizable timing – Most doors can be programmed to suit your schedule. Set the exact opening and closing times.

• Daylength adjustments – Doors with light sensors automatically adjust to seasonal light changes.

• Predator protection – Doors securely close at night, keeping turkeys safe from harm.

• Convenience – Go on vacation without worrying about your flock’s access being disrupted.

• Better health – Turkeys get full access to fresh air, sunshine and exercise every day.

Overall, automatic doors make raising turkeys far easier while providing them with a safe and enriching environment.

Top Automatic Turkey Coop Doors

There are a few companies manufacturing automatic poultry doors suitable for turkeys. Here are some top options:

ChickenDoor Automatic Turkey Door

• Sturdy aluminum frame construction.
• Door size is 20.5″ x 15.5″ – great for large birds.
• Programmable control plus optional light sensor available.
• Solar, battery or AC power options.
• 1-year warranty included.

AdorStore ADOR2 Turkey Door

• Heavy duty 1.5″ aluminum frame.
• Extra tall 20″ x 12.5″ slide opening.
• Pre-programmed control box included.
• Runs on 6V rechargeable battery (included).
• Solar panel charger optional.

Brinsea Automatic Chicken Coop Door

• Insulated double layer plastic door panel.
• Wide 20″W x 15″H opening.
• Programmable and photocell options.
• Solar power and battery box options.

When shopping, look for a sturdy, weatherproof design sized appropriately for turkeys. Aluminum or plastic frames both work well. Added insulation helps in cold climates.

How Do Automatic Turkey Coop Doors Work?

Automatic poultry doors operate by lifting vertically in a track to open and close. Let’s look closer at how the components work together:

• The motor provides power to smoothly raise and lower the door. It runs on DC voltage.

• The door panel made of plastic, aluminum or wood slides up and down vertically in side channels.

• The control box houses the programmable timer or microprocessor that controls the opening and closing.

• The photocell sensor (optional) detects light and dark, signaling the door to open and close accordingly.

• The power supply powers the motor and can be a solar panel, battery, or AC adapter depending on the model.

• The programmable timer allows you to customize the door’s operating schedule down to the minute.

As you can see, automatic doors combine mechanical design and electronic control to remove the daily burden of coop duty!

Where Should You Install the Automatic Door?

Most automatic poultry doors are designed to be mounted directly on the coop at ground level where the pop hole door is located.

Consider the following when selecting your installation location:

• Choose a flat, level surface for the best sliding operation.

• The area should receive full sun daily if using solar power.

• Near an electrical outlet if not using a solar panel.

• Protect from prevailing rain and wind if possible.

• In view of the coop interior so birds can find their way in and out.

Allow at least 15-18 inches of clear height above the base for the door panel to fully open. Also make sure the pop hole opening is wide enough to accommodate the door size you select.

How to Install an Automatic Turkey Coop Door

Installing an automatic poultry door is a straightforward process:

Step 1: Attach Mounting Bracket

Screw the mounting bracket tightly to the coop wall framing using provided hardware. Make sure it is level.

Step 2: Hang Control Box

Hang the control box containing the motor on the mounting bracket if it is not already attached.

Step 3: Install Door Panel

Slide the door panel into the side tracks and attach to the opener arm coming from the control box.

Step 4: Fasten Side Tracks

Using screws, mount the vertical side tracks tightly onto the coop’s door framing so the door can slide freely.

Step 5: Connect Power Source

Connect the power source like the solar panel or AC adapter to the control box power input.

Step 6: Program/Test Operation

Choose your operating mode, program the schedule if applicable, and test to make sure the door runs through its full open/close cycle properly.

Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for step-by-step guidance. Some handyman skills may be required.

How to Program Automatic Coop Doors

Most automatic poultry doors either run on a programmable schedule or photocell sensor mode. Here’s how each method works:

Programmable Timer Mode

Doors with programmable timers allow you to set precise opening and closing times down to the minute.

• Use the buttons on the control panel to set the time and program mode.

• Enter your desired open and close times.

• Settings will repeat daily at the same times until changed.

• This allows total customization for your flock’s needs.

Photocell Sensor Mode

Doors with light sensors automatically open and close based on daylight:

• At dawn, the photocell detects light and opens the door.

• At dusk, darkness triggers the door to close.

• Times self-adjust with seasonal light changes.

• Provides natural access matching daylength.

Both methods have pros and cons to consider for your needs. Programmable timers allow precision but require adjusting for seasonal changes. Photocells are hands-off but openings may not be as consistent daily.

Tips for Smooth Operation

Follow these tips to keep your automatic turkey coop door functioning properly:

• Fully charge batteries every 1-2 weeks if using solar power.

• Check door travel path periodically to ensure it is clear of debris.

• Adjust opening times seasonally so birds have adequate daytime access.

• If using a photocell, make sure the sensor is not blocked by vegetation.

• Wipe down door tracks to prevent buildup of material that can impede movement.

• Keep the door panel clean and check for damage, replacing panels as needed.

• Disconnect power source and remove battery during long vacations/periods of disuse.

With proper installation, programming and periodic maintenance, your automatic turkey door will provide years of reliable hands-free operation!

Troubleshooting Automatic Coop Door Issues

If your automatic door encounters problems, here are solutions to common issues:

Door only partially opens:

• Tracks are blocked by debris. Clean out tracks.
• Door is off track. Check door panel is properly seated in tracks.
• Door is hitting an obstruction. Ensure path is clear.

Door opens but won’t close:

• Photocell is blocked/dirty. Clean photocell sensor.
• Battery needs recharging. Fully recharge battery.
• Close time is incorrectly programmed. Double check programmed close time.

Door closes but won’t open:

• Dawn is set too late. Advance open time to earlier.
• Photocell is defective. Replace photocell sensor.
• Motor failure. Contact manufacturer for repair options.

Door opens and closes at wrong times:

• Incorrect program times set. Reset open/close times as desired.
• Photocell mode