Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about Hogfader feeder lights, including setup, performance, and how our “NO SPOOK” technology helps keep hogs calm and feeding longer.
Will this light spook hogs?
No. Hogfader lights use gradual “NO SPOOK” fade-in technology. Instead of turning on suddenly, the light slowly increases brightness over about 60 seconds, allowing hogs to remain calm and continue feeding naturally.
While no light can guarantee zero spooking in every situation, this design provides the best chance for consistent hog activity.
Is there a 'training period' needed for hogs before I should hunt when using the Illuminator feeder light?
No training period is required. Because the light fades in gradually, hogs typically accept it immediately and continue feeding without hesitation.
What color light works best for hog hunting?
This is a highly debated question among hog hunters. It really boils down to preference. However, these are the main points:
*Red: Best overall for minimizing spooking and maintaining natural behavior. Quicker night vision recovery.
*Green: Brighter and better for visibility, but slightly more noticeable to hogs, but I prefer green.
*Infrared (IR): Ideal for use with night vision optics. I go to an IR light when using an ATN X Sight II on my AR-10.
*Red: Best overall for minimizing spooking and maintaining natural behavior. Quicker night vision recovery.
*Green: Brighter and better for visibility, but slightly more noticeable to hogs, but I prefer green.
*Infrared (IR): Ideal for use with night vision optics. I go to an IR light when using an ATN X Sight II on my AR-10.
What is the difference between your Illuminator light and your Platinum light?
The only difference is that the Platinum has built in WiFi and camera that will allow you to view and download video and photos directly from the unit to your phone while you hunt. The network name and password are provided with the light. Just connect to the network, load the app that is broadcast directly from the unit and you are good to go. It will be available in an IR version also.
How far will the light illuminate?
Hogfader lights are designed to effectively illuminate up to 50 yards (enough light to take an ethical shot using a rifle scope, depending on mounting height and terrain. If at a feeder, it will light up an area of approximately 1800-2000 sq ft when set up on or within 20 yds of your feeder and aimed slightly downward over the bait pile.
Can I use this light with a solar setup?
Yes. In fact, we offer a mounting kit that includes a complete solar setup that can be added as a selected option when ordering one of our lights. Hogfader lights are compatible with most 12V feeder battery and solar setups, making them ideal for remote locations.
Do you include a battery with your light?
No. We do not include a battery because the logistics of storing and shipping batteries presents a few issues. We want our customers to use a brand new, fresh, fully charged battery that has not sat in a warehouse and possibly lost integrity over time. In addition, batteries add weight and cost as it relates to shipping. For those reasons, we prefer our customers visit their local sporting goods, hardware store, feed store or simply order one online (Ex: Amazon). They typically cost around $20.
How is this different from other feeder lights?
*Most feeder lights turn on or brighten instantly, which can spook hogs. Hogfader lights brighten gradually from very dim.
*Some lights are on relatively bright from the very start at dusk and shine ‘at’ the hogs instead of ‘onto’ them. Our light is designed to be elevated and aimed downward so the bright light is not aimed into their eyes, which requires a ‘training period’ for the hogs to get used to being blinded.
*Most light are offered only in GREEN, but our lights offer RED, GREEN, and INFRARED options.
*Most lights are designed specifically to be mounted to a T-post and without much if any adjustability. Have you ever driven a 6′ T-post into the ground on a hot Texas summer day? No thank you. Our lights are designed with mounting flexibility in mind. They can easily and quickly be mounted to (or moved to) a T-post, feeder, tree, fence or just about anywhere using our mounting kit.
*Some lights are on relatively bright from the very start at dusk and shine ‘at’ the hogs instead of ‘onto’ them. Our light is designed to be elevated and aimed downward so the bright light is not aimed into their eyes, which requires a ‘training period’ for the hogs to get used to being blinded.
*Most light are offered only in GREEN, but our lights offer RED, GREEN, and INFRARED options.
*Most lights are designed specifically to be mounted to a T-post and without much if any adjustability. Have you ever driven a 6′ T-post into the ground on a hot Texas summer day? No thank you. Our lights are designed with mounting flexibility in mind. They can easily and quickly be mounted to (or moved to) a T-post, feeder, tree, fence or just about anywhere using our mounting kit.
Can I leave the light on all night?
Our lights are designed to be connected to 12v power 24/7. We have some lights that we have had going 24/7 for months, utilizing our mounting kit with solar panel and controller. The light sensor and circuit board control when power is sent to the light. It is all automatic. There are no remote controls with batteries needed. It simply comes on at dusk and does it’s thing when motion is sensed.
Where should I mount the light for best results?
This really depends on your particular situation. In a typical scenario, a 10′ diameter scattering of corn (half sack) is located approximately 20′ away from the feeder. The light is mounted either on the feeder, 8-10′ above grade, or it is mounted on a T-post or tree 20′ away from the corn pile, 8′-10′ above grade and aimed at the corn pile. I always suggest placing a corn pile before a hunt to focus the pigs where your light will be most effective. If you are just depending on the 3-4 second spin of corn out of your feeder, then the best mounting location would be 8-10′ above grade, mounted on a T-post or tree 20′ away from the corn pile, and aimed downward at the base of the feeder.
How do I get my light to be 8' to 10' above the ground if mounted on a 6' T-post?
That is the beauty of our design. The mounting kit allows you to add 1″ dia PVC pipe pieces and connectors as needed. If on a 6′ T-post, we recommend adding a 3′-4′ ‘spool piece’ of PVC pipe to extend the elevation of the light only. The battery box and solar panel can stay attached directly to the T-post.
Will rain or weather affect the light?
No. Hogfader lights are built with weather-resistant materials to withstand rain, heat, and typical outdoor conditions. And, the case has a UV resistant compound incorporated during the injection molding process, so it will not degrade and turn ‘chalky’ over time. The battery and solar controller are housed in the ‘battery box’ that comes with the mounting kit. The box latches tightly for a waterproof seal.
How long does shipping take?
Shipping times vary depending on location, but most orders are processed quickly and shipped within a few business days.
Do you offer a warranty?
Yes. We include a 1 year warranty on every light sold. If the light fails to perform as intended up to 12 months from the date of purchase, Hogfader will repair or replace the light at no cost to you. Hogfader focuses on quality as much as we care about customer satisfaction, and we strive for 100% customer satisfaction.
Can I use this light with a game camera?
Yes. Hogfader lights can be used alongside game cameras, but results may vary depending on camera sensitivity and settings. Most game cameras have a built in IR filter that will only capture the IR spectrum at night, so you will see GREEN and RED from our light as a white illumination.
Will this improve my chances of seeing more hogs?
Yes. By preventing sudden light changes that can spook hogs, Hogfader lights help keep animals calm and feeding longer—giving you more consistent opportunities.
Is this light worth it compared to cheaper options?
Cheaper lights often turn on instantly, which can spook hogs and reduce activity at your feeder. Hogfader lights are specifically designed to minimize disturbance and improve results over time.
What makes Hogfader lights different?
Hogfader lights are built specifically for hog hunting, featuring gradual fade-in technology, durable construction, and reliable performance in real-world conditions.
What if I want to have my light mounted some distance away from my mounting kit/battery box?
We offer 4′ and 8′ ‘extension’ power cords as an accessory that can allow you to have your light as far as 12′ or more away from your mounting kit. For example, you can mount your light to a tree trunk and have your light hanging from a limb 12′ off the ground shining straight down.
Still have questions?
If you need help choosing the right light or setting up your feeder, feel free to contact us—we’re happy to help.