Automatic Chicken Door Troubleshooting: Quick Fixes & Solutions

Having trouble with your automatic chicken door? You're not alone. While automatic chicken coop doors are incredibly reliable, occasional issues can occur. This comprehensive troubleshooting guide covers the most common problems and their solutions, helping you get your door working properly again quickly.

Quick Problem Identifier

Jump to your issue:

Door Won't Open or Close
Door Opens/Closes at Wrong Time
WiFi Connection Problems
Motor Running But Door Not Moving
Power Issues
Solar Panel Problems
Door Moving Slowly or Making Noise
Cold Weather Issues
LED Status Light Meanings

Door Won't Open or Close

Symptom: The door doesn't respond when it should open or close automatically.

Check These First:

1. Power Source

Verify the power switch is in the ON position (switch shows "-")
Check that the power cord is securely plugged into both the controller and outlet
Test the outlet with another device to confirm it's working
If using battery backup, the battery may need charging

2. Obstruction Check

Inspect the door track for debris, feathers, or bedding material
Look for ice buildup in cold weather
Remove any objects blocking the door's path
Check if debris is interfering with movement

3. Manual Operation Test

Try manually operating the door through the menu system
If manual operation works, the issue is likely with timing/sensor settings
If manual operation doesn't work, proceed to mechanical troubleshooting

Solution Steps:

For Dirty or Obstructed Mechanisms:

Turn off power to the door
Remove the back cover
Spray WD-40 liberally on the worm drive (threaded rod)
Manually move the door up and down several times
Wipe the drive clean
Repeat if necessary
Replace back cover and restore power

Annual Maintenance Note: Perform this cleaning annually, or more frequently with densely populated coops. Dirt and feather particles accumulate on the drive mechanism over time.

Door Opens/Closes at Wrong Time

Symptom: The door activates too early, too late, or at incorrect times.

Common Causes:

1. Light Sensor Calibration

Default light sensor settings may not match your coop's lighting conditions
Nearby artificial lights can confuse the sensor
Seasonal changes affect natural light levels

Solution:

Access the programming menu
Navigate to light sensitivity settings
Adjust the open/close threshold values
Test and fine-tune over several days
Consider switching to timer mode if light sensor proves unreliable

2. Timer Settings

Incorrect date-time settings
Manual timer programming errors

Solution:

Verify the current time in the controller menu
Verify that times are entered in 24-hour format (Add 12 to any time after 12:00).

3. Temperature-Based Delays

Some models delay operation in extreme cold to protect chickens
This is normal behavior in temperatures below 15°F (-9°C)

WiFi Connection Problems

Symptom: Cannot access door remotely or WiFi module won't connect.

Understanding WiFi Module LED Status:

LED Color/Pattern - Meaning:

Blinking Green - Attempting to connect to WiFi network
Blinking Cyan - Connecting to Cloud Services
Breathing Cyan - Successfully connected and online
Blinking Red - Connection error or credential problem

Troubleshooting Steps:

1. Connection Won't Establish (Blinking Green Persists)

Problem: WiFi credentials entered incorrectly or network unavailable

Solution:

Launch the Coop Tender WiFi Setup app on your smartphone
Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone
Re-enter WiFi credentials carefully
Double-check password for accuracy (passwords are case-sensitive)
Ensure you're connecting to 2.4GHz network (5GHz not supported)

2. "Unable to Obtain IP Address" Error

Solution:

Power cycle the door (switch off, wait 10 seconds, switch on)
If problem persists, reboot your WiFi router
Check if your router has MAC address filtering enabled
Verify your network isn't at maximum device capacity

3. Module Connects Then Disconnects

Problem: WiFi module connects initially but loses connection

Solution:

Check module placement - metal surfaces can interfere with signal
Mount module on top of or above the door controller
Keep the metal faceplate away from the direct line between module and router
Consider WiFi range extender if coop is far from router
Update router firmware if available

4. Cannot Access Universal Web App

First Login Issues:

You need your Customer ID (order number: CTXXXXXX)
Navigate to ctwifi.cooptender.com
Select your authentication method (Google or custom account)
Enter Customer ID when prompted (only required on first login)

Ongoing Access Issues:

Clear browser cache and cookies
Try a different browser
Check if module shows breathing cyan (indicates cloud connection)
Verify your internet connection is working

Motor Running But Door Not Moving

Symptom: You hear the motor running but the door doesn't move.

Diagnosis:

This indicates mechanical resistance or binding.

Primary Causes:

Debris buildup on worm drive
Door track misalignment
Extreme cold causing lubricant to thicken
Worn or dry drive mechanism

Solution Protocol:

Step 1: Lubrication and Cleaning

Follow the complete maintenance procedure outlined above
Pay special attention to removing all old, dirty grease
After cleaning, apply a thin strip of lithium grease or beeswax to the worm drive
Run the door through several open/close cycles
Warning: Do not over-grease - use sparingly

Step 2: Check for Binding

With power off, manually move the door
Feel for any catching or tight spots
If door binds at certain positions, check track alignment
Verify mounting screws haven't loosened

Step 3: Severe Cases

If buildup is extreme, you may need to manually turn the drive with a wrench
Cover the drive threads with a towel to protect them
Turn gently to break through buildup
Apply WD-40 and work door up and down

Step 4: Listen for Chatter

Clean drive should operate smoothly and quietly
Chattering noise indicates insufficient lubrication
Apply small amount of lithium grease or wax

Power Issues

Symptom: Door has no power, lights don't illuminate, or power is intermittent.

Battery-Powered Systems:

Battery Won't Charge

Verify solar panel is connected correctly (red to red, black to black)
Check that battery connections are secure inside controller
Red wire has inline fuse - check if blown
Battery may need replacement after 3-5 years
Initial charge: plug in AC power for several hours before using solar

Battery Dies Quickly

Solar panel may not be receiving adequate sunlight
Check panel positioning (should face south in US, 10-30° angle)
Clean solar panel surface of dirt and debris
Battery capacity diminishes in extreme cold
Consider switching to AC power during winter months

AC-Powered Systems:

No Power to Controller

Test outlet with another device
Check circuit breaker hasn't tripped
Inspect power cord for damage
Verify power switch is in ON position (shows "-")
Check internal fuse if equipped

Intermittent Power

Loose connection at controller or outlet
Damaged power cord causing intermittent contact
Loose battery connections (if battery backup installed)
Check all connection points and reseat firmly

Solar Panel Problems

Symptom: Solar system not charging battery adequately.

Performance Optimization:

1. Panel Positioning

Optimal Setup:

Face true south (US locations)
Angle between 10-30° depending on latitude
Prioritize afternoon sun exposure
Clear of shadows from trees, buildings, roof overhangs

Common Positioning Mistakes:

Panel facing east (morning sun only) - insufficient afternoon charging
Completely vertical mounting - reduced charging efficiency
Shaded location - even partial shade significantly reduces output

2. Seasonal Challenges

Winter:

Shorter days mean less charging time
Snow accumulation blocks panel surface
Battery capacity reduced in cold temperatures
Consider AC power supplementation in winter

Solution:

Keep panel clear of snow
Ensure panel has maximum exposure to available sunlight
AC charge battery periodically during extended cloudy periods

3. Connection Problems

Check:

Red wire from panel connects to red wire from controller
Black wire from panel connects to black wire from controller
All connections are secure and weather-protected
Wire extensions (if added) are 20 AWG or thicker
Wire nut connections sealed with silicon

4. Panel Performance

Testing:

Solar panel should produce voltage on sunny days (use multimeter)
Typical output: 18-20V in direct sunlight
Clean panel surface improves efficiency
Panel performance degrades slowly over 15-20 years

5. Battery Not Charging

Sequence:

Battery must be installed BEFORE turning on solar panel
Door must be on before switching solar panel on
Initial AC charge recommended for several hours
Battery takes multiple sunny days to fully charge from solar alone

Door Moving Slowly or Making Noise

Symptom: Door operates but moves slower than normal or makes unusual sounds.

Slow Operation:

Normal Causes:

Buildup on drive mechanism creating resistance
Cold weather thickening lubricants
Battery running low (battery-powered systems)
Normal aging of drive mechanism

Solutions:

Perform worm drive cleaning maintenance
In cold weather, door may naturally operate slower
Check battery charge level

Unusual Noises:

Chattering Sound:

Cause: Dry or under-lubricated worm drive
Solution: Apply small amount of lithium grease or beeswax

Grinding Noise:

Cause: Dirt/debris in drive mechanism
Solution: Complete cleaning procedure with WD-40

Clicking:

Cause: Loose mounting screws or components
Solution: Check and tighten all mounting hardware

Motor Straining:

Cause: Excessive resistance in mechanism
Solution: Clean and lubricate drive, check for obstructions

Cold Weather Issues

Symptom: Door problems occur only during freezing temperatures.

Common Winter Challenges:

1. Ice Buildup

Ice can form around door edges and track
Prevents door from moving properly
Most common in humid climates

Prevention:

Keep door area well-ventilated
Ensure proper coop ventilation to reduce moisture
Remove ice manually when present

2. Battery Performance

Battery capacity significantly reduced below 20°F (-7°C)
Solar charging minimal during short winter days
Battery may struggle to provide enough power

Solutions:

Switch to AC power during coldest months
Keep battery charged with periodic AC charging
Some cold-weather batteries perform better than standard lead-acid
Consider battery upgrade if frequent cold weather operation needed

3. Lubricant Thickening

Grease becomes stiff in extreme cold
Door operates slowly or with difficulty

Solution:

Use low-temperature lithium grease
Light application of WD-40 improves cold weather performance

4. Delayed Operation

Controllers may delay operation in extreme cold to protect chickens
Normal behavior below 15°F (-9°C)
Door will operate once temperature rises slightly

Winter Operation Tips:

Perform maintenance before winter arrives
Clean drive mechanism thoroughly
Apply appropriate cold-weather lubricant
Test operation during first cold snap
Consider AC power instead of solar during winter months
Keep solar panel clear of snow
Monitor battery charge more frequently

LED Status Light Meanings

Understanding your controller's LED lights helps diagnose problems quickly.

WiFi Module LED Indicators:

Color/Pattern	Status	Action Needed
Blinking Green	Connecting to WiFi network	Wait 15 seconds; if persists, check credentials
Blinking Cyan	Connecting to Cloud Services	Normal startup; wait for breathing cyan
Breathing Cyan	Connected and Online	Normal operation - no action needed
Blinking Red	Connection Error	Check network connection; may need reconfiguration
Solid Red	Critical Error	Power cycle system; contact support if persists

Controller Status LEDs:

Door Status Indicator:

Red = Door fully open
Green = Door fully closed
Blinking Green = Door in motion
Blinking Red = Door in mid-position

Power Indicator:

Steady light = Normal operation
No light = Check power source
Flickering = Possible power supply issue

Preventive Maintenance Schedule

Avoid most problems with regular maintenance:

Annual Tasks:

Complete worm drive cleaning and lubrication
Inspect all wiring connections
Check mounting screw tightness
Clean solar panel surface
Inspect power cord for wear
Test battery performance

Every 3-6 Months:

Quick visual inspection of mechanism
Remove accumulated debris from track
Verify timing settings are still accurate
Test manual and automatic operation

As Needed:

Clean after exceptionally dusty conditions
Remove ice buildup in winter
Clean solar panel after storms or heavy pollen
Adjust light sensor settings seasonally

When to Contact Support

Contact Coop Tender support when:

Problems persist after trying all troubleshooting steps
You suspect a component failure (motor, controller, sensor)
Physical damage to door or controller
Warranty questions or concerns
Need replacement parts
Unusual behavior not covered in this guide

Have Ready When Calling:

Your Customer ID (order number: CTXXXXXX)
Door model number (CT-003, CT-004, CT-005, CT-006, or CT-007)
Description of the problem
What troubleshooting steps you've tried
Photos of issue (if applicable)

Contact Information:

Email: info@cooptender.com
Phone: (888) 217-1958
Response time: Within 1 business day

Related Resources

Owner's Manuals and Documentation: Visit CoopTender.com/manuals for complete owner's manuals and quick start guides.

Replacement Parts: Browse available replacement parts and accessories at cooptender.com.

Installation Guides:

Product Information: Learn about Coop Tender automatic chicken coop doors and find the right door for your flock size.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should I clean and lubricate my door? A: Perform thorough maintenance annually, or more frequently if you have a densely populated coop. Quick inspections every 3-6 months help catch issues early.

Q: Can I use regular grease on the worm drive? A: Use lithium grease sparingly, or beeswax/paraffin wax. Don't over-grease as this attracts dirt. WD-40 is excellent for cleaning but not long-term lubrication.

Q: My door worked fine for years and suddenly stopped. What happened? A: Most likely dirt and feather particle buildup on the worm drive. This is the #1 cause of problems in older installations. Follow the cleaning procedure and your door should work like new.

Q: Will my solar-powered door work in winter? A: Yes, but with limitations. Short days and weak sunlight mean less charging. Battery capacity also decreases in cold. Consider switching to AC power or supplemental AC charging during winter months.

Q: Why does my door sometimes not move when the timer activates? A: Check for obstructions, frozen mechanisms (winter), or buildup on the drive. Also verify the door isn't being blocked by debris.

Q: How do I reset my WiFi module? A: Power cycle the door (switch off, wait 10 seconds, switch on). To reconfigure WiFi: put module in setup mode using the WiFi Setup app, then enter new credentials.

Q: My battery seems to die faster than it used to. Is this normal? A: Lead-acid batteries typically last 3-5 years before capacity degrades significantly. If your battery is older, replacement may restore performance. Cold weather also reduces battery capacity temporarily.

Q: Can I mount the controller separately from the door? A: Yes, separate controller models are available. These include a grey cable to connect to the door unit, allowing remote mounting. Maximum distance depends on cable length.

Summary: Most Common Issues and Quick Fixes

1. Door Won't Move:

Check power and connections
Remove obstructions
Clean the worm drive with WD-40

2. Wrong Timing:

Adjust light sensor sensitivity
Verify timer settings
Check for interference from artificial lights

3. WiFi Problems:

Power cycle door and router
Verify 2.4GHz network credentials
Improve module placement/signal strength

4. Winter Issues:

Remove ice buildup
Switch to AC power
Keep battery charged
Use cold-weather appropriate lubricants

5. Slow Operation:

Clean worm drive mechanism
Apply appropriate lubrication
Check battery charge (solar models)

Most automatic chicken door problems can be resolved with basic troubleshooting. Regular maintenance prevents the majority of issues. When in doubt, don't hesitate to contact Coop Tender support - they're committed to keeping your flock protected.

Last Updated: October 2025

This guide covers troubleshooting for all Coop Tender automatic chicken coop door models, including standard electric doors, solar-powered systems, and WiFi-enabled models. For specific product questions, refer to your model's owner's manual.

Automatic Chicken Door Troubleshooting Guide: Fix Common Problems Fast

Quick Problem Identifier