Hensafe automatic door openers

[Margaid]

Has anyone used one of these? I've read the article on the website but it seems to be a press releaeas from Hensafe and I'd like an unbiased opinion. What attracts me is that if set for time and light level it always selects the later of the two so the hens don't get out too early or locked out if it's a very fine evening.

All opinions welcomed.

 

[foxy]

I haven't had a good look yet, there are a few new suppliers entering the market now. I have just ordered one to try.

The only thing I would check is the guarantee, the ones I have been using for the last 7 years have been great, and come with a 3 year guarantee (Vsb) not that any of them have gone wrong apart from one faulty timer. Now that can be seen as a benefit over the integral systems...what happens if the timer malfunctions?

I have just ordered this one, and it comes with a 2 year guarantee.

http://www.farmcareuk.com/shop/product/Automatic-Door-Openers/Chicken-Guard-AST-Control-System

I like this one as I can override the timer, particularly useful for ducks, herd them in, press the close button, the timer should kick in the morning. I also know the company and they have always been efficient. I would rather order goods from an established farming company that I have used before.

 

[Margaid]

Looks interesting Foxy, I'd like to know how you get on with it. Just checked the Hensafe website and the electronics are guaranteed for 2 years, but I'm in no hurry so can wait to see if anyone esle responds.

 

[ChickenJules]

Hi Margaid and Foxy,
I'm the proprietor of HenSafe and am following your thread - I hope I'm allowed to post this! I'd just like to say that if you have any questions at all, technical or otherwise, please get in touch and we'll be happy to help. We've had some fabulous feedback on HenSafe and also repeat purchases. Good luck with your continued research and we look forward to hearing from you! Julie 99

 

[drn]

I have used a "Hensafe" for over year now. We were repeatedly loosing our chickens to foxes - usually when we were late home. Since fitting Hensafe (banging in one nail to hang it on) we haven't lost a chicken.

The facility to use light level means that we are not forever resetting the opening and closing times to match the season

Not cheap but cheaper than buying new hens, well made and very simple to use

 

[Margaid]

Thanks for that DRN. I like the fact that it operates on either light or time as my hens go to bed according to light levels and it allows for both "dark early" evenings and "light late". Like you, it's really only necessary for when we're late home - but that can often be unplanned and I have no near neighbours to come and shut them in for me.