FAQs
Purchasing
Which type of NetBox is right for me?
The non-automated NetBox is great if you need a time and hay saving feeder, with constant access to hay/haylage. Instead of stuffing hay nets you can simply add bales of hay, close the net on top, and your horses can enjoy feeding from the NetBox.
The automated NetBox enables controlled access to the hay. This can be of benefit in several situations, for example if you need to restrict feeding rate beyond what a net can comfortably achieve, or if your schedule means you aren’t always on site at the same time every day. Or alongside a regular feeding station, you can be sure that once that hay is all eaten the automatic feeder will open and provide access to hay even in the early hours of the morning. Or perhaps you need to encourage movement, where horses quickly learn that hay is intermittently available, without ever going without for long periods.
Where do you deliver to?
Currently NetBox is only available in the mainland UK. For full details see the delivery page.
Do you charge for delivery?
Delivery is not included in the price. For full details see the delivery page.
Can I collect NetBox?
Yes, you are welcome to collect by appointment. For full details see the delivery page.
Can the standard NetBox be upgraded to automatic if I later decide it’s the way to go?
Yes it can, however it’s not a DIY upgrade so you would need to return your NetBox to us to fit the automatic operator.
Using a NetBox
Is it safe to use?
Safety is a very important aspect and we have taken great care to minimise risks. For example any parts a horse can access are rounded, resilient, secure, and where possible not metallic. The automatic version is UKCA marked to show conformity to the Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations, and sealed lead acid batteries are used instead of lithium batteries. Please note however that we cannot protect against all situations and you should conduct your own risk assessment.
What sort of nets do you supply?
The standard nets we supply are knotless high tensile polypropylene, with a cord diameter of 4-5mm. This specification is typical of premium quality nets. If there is demand we could make available as an option similar nets but made from ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), which has higher breaking strength and better abrasion resistance, normally used for load restraint in safety systems.
What are the different net size options?
Currently we offer only two mesh sizes, 45mm and 60mm. In our experience the very small mesh sizes sometimes used for haynets is not so necessary with a NetBox, as the more natural upwards eating action through the NetBox net tends to reduce extraction of large clumps of hay. However we can make available smaller mesh sizes if required.
Can the net be replaced?
The net is laced into the frame. If you have the patience it is easy to lace in a new net (the frame can be easily removed for better access), or you can send your frame back to us for a replacement net.
How much does the NetBox weigh?
Empty weight of the NetBox is around 44kg, or 83kg with the automatic actuator.
Is it easy to move?
The Netbox is robust and may be dragged around by one person with some effort. This of course means that a horse can also move it, but it is stable and unlikely to be moved far. The base of the box is fitted with two skids, making it movable using a sack barrow or forkilift.
Is it weatherproof?
The NetBox is designed to be used outside in all weathers. The net is UV stabilised and rotproof, the net frame is galvanised, and stainless steel is used for the majority of the automatic actuator and for all fasteners. The protective plywood covers are external grade ply with all-over protection, but will eventually degrade and need replacement. The NetBox can be power washed but water jets should not be directed at the electronics of the automatic version.
How long does the battery last
In typical use (half an hour open, one hour closed, cycling continuously day and night) a single battery will easily last a week, longer in warmer weather. You can use two batteries for double the running time, provided the batteries are in similar condition. As batteries age they will lose capacity, typically after around 300 charge cycles they will be down to 75% of original capacity, so 5-6 years use. This assumes the battery is not abused, for example never charge a battery in freezing conditions, always do so in a room temperature at least 5°C.
Does the NetBox need servicing
Apart from wear on the net and charging the battery (automatic version) the NetBox is designed to need no servicing. It should be inspected regularly for damage and parts replaced if necessary.
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