Solar-Powered Chicken Coop Doors: Complete Comparison

More and more chicken keepers are switching to solar-powered automatic coop doors, and for good reason. These doors eliminate the need for external power or replacing batteries.

We took a closer look at three of the most popular models on the market: the Run-Chicken Eternal BT, Chickcozy Solar, and the ChickenGuard All-in-One Solar.

1. Run-Chicken Eternal BT

Run-Chicken is a well-known name in the chicken world, and the Eternal BT is one of their newest solar models. “BT” stands for Bluetooth, which means the door is entirely controlled through a smartphone app.

Key Features

• Built-in solar panel (in the control unit)
• Includes 2 rechargeable batteries
• Bluetooth control via app
• Light sensor and/or timer
• Durable aluminum design

Power & Installation:

The door ships with pre-charged batteries, ready to use right out of the box. The built-in solar panel can generate enough energy with just seven sunny days to power the unit for an entire year, ideal for cloudy climates.

Until recently, Run-Chicken did offer a model with a separate solar panel, but it’s no longer part of their product line — and it’s unlikely to return.

Below, you can see the difference between the two versions.

Factory Settings

Once you remove the battery tab, the door will automatically operate based on its default settings: opening and closing 20 minutes after sunrise and sunset using the light sensor.

Prefer a custom schedule? Just connect via the app and adjust everything there.

Pros:

• Easy 5-10 minute installation
• Full control via smartphone
• Lightweight but strong aluminum body
• Operates in −15 °F to 140 °F
• Adjustable delay settings (5 to 120 minutes)
• Safety stop function and ambient light filtering

Cons:

• No manual button; app use is mandatory
• No display screen
• Pricier than basic models

Our Take

Top-tier build quality, smart features, and strong solar performance make this a great choice if you’re comfortable relying on your phone.

No manual control means it’s not for everyone, but once set up, it’s virtually hands-off. Bonus: you can get 15% off with our special code ‘CHICKENFANS’.

2. Chickcozy Solar

A relative newcomer, Chickcozy has quickly built a reputation with its side-opening design and solid construction. As of April 2025, the solar-powered version is available, improving on the original with solar energy.

We’re still thoroughly testing the new version, which is why we don’t have all the photos yet. However, the core design remains true to the previous model, with a few key improvements.

The ‘old’ model without a solar panel is no longer available.

Key Features

• External solar panel with a 6.5ft cable
• Rechargeable internal battery
• Manual control buttons on the unit
• Timer, light sensor, and manual options
• Made from sturdy ABS thermoplastic

Power Setup

Unlike Run-Chicken, Chickcozy uses a separate control unit that houses both the battery and the solar panel. Thanks to the 6.5ft cable, you can mount the solar panel in a sunnier spot if your coop entrance is shaded.

The solar panel needs one full day of sunlight to power the unit for an entire week.

Control & Usability

Settings are adjusted directly on the control unit; no app or Bluetooth needed. Great for those who prefer buttons over screens. Once configured, there’s rarely a need to touch it again.

It’s designed for those who prefer to adjust settings or operate the door manually via the control box instead of via an app.

If you’d rather skip apps and smartphones altogether, this door is a better fit for you.

Pros:

• Manual, timer, and light-based operation
• Redesigned bottom: no grooves that collect dirt
• Ideal for smaller coops
• Battery charging indicator and manual override button
• Safety stop

Cons

• No app or Bluetooth
• Slower charging than Run-Chicken, but still adequate
• Longer shipping times (7–14 days)

Our Take

A great choice if you want something easy and flexible, no smartphone needed. Chickcozy is simple, reliable, and now even better with some smart updates.

3. ChickenGuard All in One Solar

ChickenGuard has been around since 2013 and is trusted by many backyard chicken keepers. Their All-in-One Solar model, introduced in 2024, adds solar power to their already reliable automatic doors.

Key Features

• Choice of solar panel, AA batteries, or mains power
• Timer, light sensor, and manual operation
• Optional remote control panel
• Separate solar panel (9.5 ft cable)
• Independent open/close scheduling

Power Options

Unique among the three, this model lets you choose your power source.

Use the included solar panel and rechargeable batteries, or switch to standard AA batteries (not included) or plug it into the mains (cable sold separately).

So, whether you prefer to use the solar panel or not, is completely up to you!

Extension Box

By default, the control panel is attached to the door. You can also purchase a separate “extension box” to position the control panel in a more accessible location.

Handy if your door is mounted low or in a tight space.

Pros:

• Most flexible power setup
• Affordable base model
• Separate open/close settings
• Winter mode for extra power during cold weather
• Basic safety features (stop sensor, alerts)

Cons:

• Bulky and heavier
• No app or Bluetooth
• Display can be hard to read in sunlight
• Higher power use due to display (AA batteries will drain faster)

Our Take

ChickenGuard offers versatility and value, especially if you want control over your power source. The installation is a bit more involved than the other two models, but it’s worth it for the flexibility.

Conclusion

All three solar-powered automatic chicken doors in this review are reliable, high-quality products. The best choice depends on your personal preferences:

Want smart features and app control? Go with Run-Chicken.

Prefer manual control and a simpler setup? Try Chickcozy.

Need power flexibility? Check out ChickenGuard.

Looking for non-solar options? Check our main article: Best Automatic Chicken Coop Doors.