Run Chicken Automatic door

[RubySue]

Hello I purchased the Run Chicken door. While I do like it, I haven’t really used it yet because the chicks just went out to the coop at 3 weeks, now almost 4 weeks old. I programmed it initially, just not open and close. However, while double checking our predator proofing, I realized that the manual button on it is so easy to push and with direct easy access! It’s not like you have to press and hold it to open it, either manually, it is just too easy.
What I am wondering is would a raccoon stumble upon that button or has anyone heard of one since it is not well hidden, it seems like such an easy access an in a terrible spot. Anyways I opted to take the batteries out until I look into this further.

 

[shayes224]

Hello I purchased the Run Chicken door. While I do like it, I haven’t really used it yet because the chicks just went out to the coop at 3 weeks, now almost 4 weeks old. I programmed it initially, just not open and close. However, while double checking our predator proofing, I realized that the manual button on it is so easy to push and with direct easy access! It’s not like you have to press and hold it to open it, either manually, it is just too easy.
What I am wondering is would a raccoon stumble upon that button or has anyone heard of one since it is not well hidden, it seems like such an easy access an in a terrible spot. Anyways I opted to take the batteries out until I look into this further.

I’m considering buying this door so I’m curious for responses. Read the reviews on Amazon and if it’s not mentioned as a common issue I wouldn’t be too concerned.

 

[Mouthpear]

What button are you referring to? I don't own one so all I'm looking at is images on their website, and I see no button.

 

[RubySue]

What button are you referring to? I don't own one so all I'm looking at is images on their website, and I see no button.

Hello. Here a some pictures.

 

[Bladester]

Hello I purchased the Run Chicken door. While I do like it, I haven’t really used it yet because the chicks just went out to the coop at 3 weeks, now almost 4 weeks old. I programmed it initially, just not open and close. However, while double checking our predator proofing, I realized that the manual button on it is so easy to push and with direct easy access! It’s not like you have to press and hold it to open it, either manually, it is just too easy.
What I am wondering is would a raccoon stumble upon that button or has anyone heard of one since it is not well hidden, it seems like such an easy access an in a terrible spot. Anyways I opted to take the batteries out until I look into this further.

Hi:

I own one and I have been using it now for about 6 weeks now. I know exactly what button you are referring to and I think it would be some work for a raccoon to push up on it but anything could happen. The door is in the run for me and I have the run locked when I'm not home and an apron predator fence around the coop and run so I highly doubt I'll have an issue. If you still think it will be an issue I would suggest adding a water bottle cap from a 16.9 FL oz and cut a 1/4" hole in the center and glue the cap to the underside of the bottom electronics frame of the Run Chicken door frame. It seems to be about the same size and will protect it so a raccoon or other predator is less likely to hit it but still allows you to press it when or if you need to. Cheers!

 

[McChooky]

Hi:

I own one and I have been using it now for about 6 weeks now. I know exactly what button you are referring to and I think it would be some work for a raccoon to push up on it but anything could happen. The door is in the run for me and I have the run locked when I'm not home and an apron predator fence around the coop and run so I highly doubt I'll have an issue. If you still think it will be an issue I would suggest adding a water bottle cap from a 16.9 FL oz and cut a 1/4" hole in the center and glue the cap to the underside of the bottom electronics frame of the Run Chicken door frame. It seems to be about the same size and will protect it so a raccoon or other predator is less likely to hit it but still allows you to press it when or if you need to. Cheers!

Ingenious! By covering it as you suggested it makes the door much safer! (I use an ink pen to press the recessed button on my trucks clock)

 

[RubySue]

Hi:

I own one and I have been using it now for about 6 weeks now. I know exactly what button you are referring to and I think it would be some work for a raccoon to push up on it but anything could happen. The door is in the run for me and I have the run locked when I'm not home and an apron predator fence around the coop and run so I highly doubt I'll have an issue. If you still think it will be an issue I would suggest adding a water bottle cap from a 16.9 FL oz and cut a 1/4" hole in the center and glue the cap to the underside of the bottom electronics frame of the Run Chicken door frame. It seems to be about the same size and will protect it so a raccoon or other predator is less likely to hit it but still allows you to press it when or if you need to. Cheers!

Thanks! Yes that could work! I didn’t have the roof in my run yet but I do now. So they’d need to get into the run first to get to the door. But I think it would still be a good idea. Raccoons are too smart lol. I feel much better knowing the run is now secure. So hopefully nothing will get past that. But to rest easy I think it’d be good to cover it.

 

[Mouthpear]

Well if you have an old gas weed eater laying around, I say take the Purge Bulb and Pump Cover off of it and use that. Just don't tighten it, as it needs to push out air.

If you don't have one laying around a Cheap carburetor kit runs $12.99.

Separately on eReplacementsparts.com
$3.99 Primer Pump Cover
$4.66 Purge Bulb
$6.95 Plus shipping
$15.60 total


Also, if you don't already have one laying around, go to your local small engine repair place and ask if they have any laying around. They will. Heck I'm not a small engine repair guy and I have several laying around.

I know it's a bit more than a bottle cap but it flexes more while being stronger. No need of glue that might not hold. Just have to pre drill if it is a plastic housing. If not plastic, use Stainless Hex Washer Head Self Drilling Screws. These can also be used on plastic. I would still pre drill tho.

If you feel brave, Last option is it to get a pair of diagonal cutters and snip the button just below the surface. Put a little strip of scotch tape over it. If you ever need to press the button you may or may not need something to press it, like the key to your house or a pen.

 

[alinas2010]

Hello I purchased the Run Chicken door. While I do like it, I haven’t really used it yet because the chicks just went out to the coop at 3 weeks, now almost 4 weeks old. I programmed it initially, just not open and close. However, while double checking our predator proofing, I realized that the manual button on it is so easy to push and with direct easy access! It’s not like you have to press and hold it to open it, either manually, it is just too easy.
What I am wondering is would a raccoon stumble upon that button or has anyone heard of one since it is not well hidden, it seems like such an easy access an in a terrible spot. Anyways I opted to take the batteries out until I look into this further.

I have this same door. We’ve been using it for about a month and haven’t had an issue yet, but I have wondered this. Love the ideas here! I thought about installing it with the button and sensors inside for that reason, but decided against it.

 

[RubySue]

I have this same door. We’ve been using it for about a month and haven’t had an issue yet, but I have wondered this. Love the ideas here! I thought about installing it with the button and sensors inside for that reason, but decided against it.

Thanks! Glad I’m not the only one who sees it as a possibility. I mean I’m not saying the raccoon will be like “oh look a button” , I mean maybe lol, but all he has to do is put his dirty little paw up there, then goes my chickens