High Tech Pet Large Electronic Pet Door PX-2 Review Secure Ultrasonic Collar Access

Description

Testing the High-Tech Pet Door

Having a large dog that acts more like a tornado when running through the house, I decided it was time to upgrade to something more advanced than a traditional flap door. After some research and plenty of skepticism, I landed on the High Tech Pet PX-2 Power Pet Door. The idea of a motorized, ultrasonic collar-activated door sounded futuristic and, frankly, a little extravagant for my furry friend. But after weeks of testing, both my dog and I have developed strong opinions about this product. Here’s the breakdown of my experience.

Features and My Daily Use

The Power Pet PX-2 is designed for medium to large dogs, with a panel size of 12.25 x 16 inches, making it suitable for pets up to 100 pounds. My Labrador, Max, weighs around 85 pounds and fits through without any issue. The door is motorized, meaning it slides vertically rather than swinging open. This feature alone intrigued me because it removes the need for pets to push a flap, which some animals dislike. Max, for instance, used to hesitate with standard doors, so this was a game-changer.

It’s powered by an AC adapter, but it also has an optional backup battery (sold separately) in case of power outages. I live in an area prone to the occasional blackout, so I opted for the backup battery. Installing it was straightforward, and having that additional peace of mind was worth it.

The ultrasonic collar that comes with the door is lightweight and adjustable. It emits a digitally coded signal, allowing the door to open only when my dog approaches directly. This directional sensing feature is surprisingly accurate. Max lounging near the door won’t trigger it, but the second he gets up and moves toward it, the door magically slides open. Watching him figure this out for the first time was a highlight of my week.

The door also has four access modes: In Only, Out Only, Full Access, and Locked. These settings are easy to adjust via a control panel. On days when I’m not home, I switch it to Locked mode to keep Max safe inside. The Full Access mode, though, is his favorite.

Security and Durability

One of the standout features is the door’s automatic deadbolt locking system. Unlike traditional pet doors that can be easily pushed open by intruders or stray animals, this one feels incredibly secure. The panel is made of bulletproof resin, which, while a bit excessive, does give me confidence that it can withstand harsh weather and potential break-ins. I tested it during a storm, and its airtight seal kept the wind and rain out completely. No drafts, no leaks—just silence.

The Good, the Bad, and the Quirky

While I’m satisfied overall, this door isn’t perfect. The motor makes a subtle humming noise when the door opens and closes. It’s not loud, but it startled Max the first few times. He adjusted quickly, but I could see this being an issue for particularly skittish pets.

Another thing to consider is the collar battery. The collar itself is comfortable and effective, but the battery life isn’t fantastic. I found myself switching out the batteries more frequently than I expected, which adds a minor recurring cost.

Lastly, the door’s price is on the higher end. While the features justify the cost to some extent, it’s an investment. For pet owners on a budget, this might not be the most practical option.

Pros

• Convenient and hands-free: The motorized sliding door eliminates the need for pets to struggle with pushing a flap.
• Highly secure: The automatic deadbolt and bulletproof resin panel give unmatched security compared to standard pet doors.
• Weatherproof design: Its airtight seal ensures no wind, rain, or drafts enter your home.
• Customizable access modes: The four-way control panel makes it easy to manage your pet’s movements.
• Directional sensing technology: The door only opens when your pet approaches directly, reducing unnecessary activations.

Cons

• Noisy motor: While not overly loud, the humming sound can spook timid pets initially.
• Frequent collar battery changes: The collar’s battery life leaves much to be desired.
• High price point: Though feature-rich, the product is a significant investment.
• Backup battery sold separately: An additional cost for those wanting uninterrupted functionality.

Comparison to Competitors

In the world of electronic pet doors, competition is fierce. The PetSafe SmartDoor is a popular alternative, boasting RFID collar tags instead of ultrasonic. However, its swinging mechanism feels clunkier compared to the smooth, vertical motion of the PX-2. Additionally, the SmartDoor lacks the deadbolt locking system, making it less secure overall.

Another contender is the SureFlap Microchip Pet Door. While it’s famous for using your pet’s microchip for activation (no collar required), its panel size is much smaller, making it unsuitable for larger dogs like Max. It also doesn’t offer the same airtight weatherproofing that the PX-2 excels in.

Between these options, the PX-2 stands out for its advanced safety features, weather resistance, and suitability for larger pets. That said, if you have a smaller dog or cat, the SureFlap might be a more cost-effective choice.

Cost Analysis and Value for Money

There’s no denying that the PX-2 is an expensive product. However, its features—such as the motorized panel, airtight seal, and high level of security—make it feel like a worthwhile investment for pet owners prioritizing convenience and safety. The recurring costs for collar batteries and the optional backup battery add up over time, but these are minor in comparison to the overall utility it provides.

For me, the time saved from not having to manually let Max in and out every day is priceless. The added peace of mind from the security features only sweetens the deal. While it may not be for everyone, those willing to splurge on convenience and innovation will likely find it worth every penny.

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