New Run Chicken Model sunrise/sunset issues with app

[sweetpumpkinfarm]

Hi, We recently moved and had to build a new coop and therefore get a new Run Chicken automatic door. I had one at our old coop and it was great, never a single issue, it was set to sunrise/sunset and worked without fail. It also had a manual close/open button if needed. When we got the new one which is a new model, it's now app based and you are required ot use the app and pair it (not necessary before). I pair it and set it to sunrise/sunset so it will use light like the old one. It closes at night then EVERY am it is closed and if I open the app it says 'not connected'. Then I have to go outside to pair it to push open on the app. It's not the door itself as I already replaced one thinking the door was broke as it happened so much it finally just stopped owrking. I know it's not batteries as its' second brand new one. I tried looking online and I can see that if you have an Iphone/Ios, the apps can stop running overnight but it shouldn't matter right if it's using a light sensor? I'm so frustrated becuse i loved the old model and this is nothing but hassle. Has anyone else experienced this OR does anyone have a non-app auto door recommendation? thank you!

 

[rosemarythyme]

Why in the world does a chicken door need an app??
Sorry I have no suggestions other than to find a more basic model, even if that means a different brand. I don't suppose there's any way to attach a different motor to operate the door since you already have it in place, is there?

 

[sweetpumpkinfarm]

Why in the world does a chicken door need an app??
Sorry I have no suggestions other than to find a more basic model, even if that means a different brand. I don't suppose there's any way to attach a different motor to operate the door since you already have it in place, is there?

the old model didnt have one! I agree!

 

[perkolator]

Can you not program it like the old one, by holding the phone screen against the light sensor? I'd message Run Chicken and see what they say, if it's a newer unit the drive motor/control box might be covered with warranty

 

[debid]

Did you pair it via Bluetooth to your phone or add it to your WiFi network? If it's WiFi capable and you have a good signal, I would switch over to that. If it isn't, get a different model or another brand and send that one back. There are far too many options out there to put up with that level of nonsense.

 

[debid]

BTW, mine is another brand but it is on our WiFi. When we lost power during the ice storm, it just kept operating as scheduled. I couldn't make changes to my preferences until the power came back and it reconnected but it didn't just stop working.