DIY Solar Automatic Chicken Coop Door: A Simple Guide to Building Your Own

Introduction

Keeping chickens in your backyard has become increasingly popular in recent years. Not only do they provide fresh eggs, but they also make great pets. However, owning chickens comes with the responsibility of keeping them safe and secure from predators. If you have ever had the experience of losing a chicken to a fox or raccoon, you know how heartbreaking it can be. One way to keep your chickens safe is to install a chicken coop door that automatically opens and closes.

Instead of buying an expensive pre-fabricated automatic chicken coop door, why not build one yourself? In this article, we will guide you through the process of building a DIY solar automatic chicken coop door.

Why Choose a Solar Automatic Chicken Coop Door?

There are several benefits to choosing a solar automatic chicken coop door over a traditional door:

• Energy-efficient: A solar-powered door will save you money on energy costs.
• Convenient: No need to worry about manually opening and closing the door every day.
• Secure: The door will open and close at predetermined times, ensuring that your chickens are safe from predators.
• Low-maintenance: Solar-powered doors require very little maintenance compared to traditional doors.

Materials Needed

Before you begin building your solar automatic chicken coop door, you will need the following materials:

• 2x4 lumber
• Plywood
• Screws
• Hinges
• Automator timer
• 12V Solar panel
• Rechargeable battery
• 12V DC actuator
• Photocell sensor
• Wire

Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you have all of the materials, it's time to begin building your DIY solar automatic chicken coop door.

Step 1: Frame the Door

Using the 2x4 lumber, frame the door to the desired size. Attach the hinges to one side of the frame.

Step 2: Install the Door

Attach the plywood panel to the frame of the door. Make sure it is secured tightly to prevent predators from entering.

Step 3: Install the Actuator

Attach the 12V DC actuator to the frame of the door. This will be what opens and closes the door.

Step 4: Connect the Actuator to the Timer

Connect the actuator to the automator timer. This will allow you to program when the door opens and closes. Set the timer to open and close according to the daylight hours.

Step 5: Connect the Photocell Sensor

Connect the photocell sensor to the automator timer. This will allow the door to open and close based on ambient light levels. As the sun sets, the door will close, and as it rises, the door will open. This ensures that your chickens are protected from predators while still giving them access to sunlight during the day.

Step 6: Install the Solar Panel and Battery

Install the 12V solar panel on the roof of the chicken coop. Connect the solar panel to the rechargeable battery. This will provide power to the automator timer and actuator.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully built your very own DIY solar automatic chicken coop door. Not only is it energy-efficient and convenient, but it will also keep your chickens safe from predators. By following this simple guide, you'll be on your way to having a secure and low-maintenance chicken coop that your feathered friends will love.