Would really appreciate any input from anyone using those products. I have a sliding door going out to the back yard which I either need to open 20 times a day for my dog to go out, or leave it open which brings all the cold in.
I don't want to replace the door or cut an opening through my wall (Both are very expensive in my case).
I'm considering a few options:
1. A panel that has a dog door. There are products from $150-$200 (e.g. entry-level petsafe) to $350 (Petsafe Weather Extreme) to $700 (Enduraflap)
2. An auto-slider that when the dog comes near (with a tag) the door opens then closes behind, or I can open / close from an app / alexa. With all required accessories this ends up being around $700 (Products by Wayzn / SmartSlyder).
the auto-slider way seems ideal in terms of insulation (so I'm guessing I'll be paying more now but less in heating / cooling costs). It also looks much nicer than a panel that takes some of the door width. The problem is that it's made by 2 companies who don't sell on Amazon or any place where I can read somewhat objective reviews. I'm worried that it won't really work reliably, or break in a short time. Has anyone actually tried those and can give some honest feedback?
Also – if going the panel route – is it worth paying more for the more insulated versions or it it all the same crap and I just need to accept that wind / cold will get in?
submitted by /u/nickbir
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