
What are the best electric fence chargers?
- BEST OVERALL: Parmak 12-Volt Magnum 30-Mile Range Fence Charger
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Patriot PE2 Electric Fence Energizer
- BEST LONG-DISTANCE: Zareba EAC50M-Z 50-Mile-Range Electric Fence Charger
- BEST MEDIUM-DISTANCE: Zareba ESP10M-Z 10-Mile Electric Fence Charger
- BEST SOLAR: Zareba ESP5M-Z 5-Mile Solar Electric Fence Charger
What is the strongest fence charger?
What is the strongest fence charger? The M10000i packs 100 joules of stored energy and will outperform any other electric fence energizer on the market powering 125 miles / 3,000 acres of multi-wire fencing.
Does an electric fence use much electricity?
The power usage of an electric fence is affected by many variables. However, the University of Missouri Extension states that 1 joule of output from a fence charger. the land owners are increasingly erecting electric fences.
What is the best electric fence Energizer?
The Best Electric Fence Chargers for Cattle Reviewed
- Parmak DF-SP-LI Solar Pak 6. My #1 best overall choice comes from Parmak, a very well known electrical fence product manufacturer from the USA.
- Parmak Magnum Solar-Pak 12. Another pick from Parmak, the Solar-Pak 12 is more powerful than the DF-SP-LI Solar Pak 6, and is our best solar fence charger for cattle ...
- Patriot PE2. ...
- Zareba EAC200M-Z. ...

How does fence charger work?
The energizer pushes an electric pulse through its “+” terminal to the fence. The pulse travels through the conductors and pressurizes the fence with excess electrons. That pressure is measured in volts. When an animal touches the fence, excess electrons enter it and travel through the animal to the soil.
How much does it cost to run a fence charger?
The typical Zareba® fence charger uses about 33 watts per day. So, 33 watts multiplied by 31 days is 1,023. Divide that by 1,000 to get 1.023 kilowatt hours per month. The U.S. average cost of a kilowatt hour is 12 cents.
How long does a fence charger last?
Battery units in these chargers are good for 3 to 4 years, before needing to be replaced. This is still a better option than replacing an entire charger every 4 years or so.
Which fence charger do I need?
The longer your fence line, the bigger charger you will need to maintain 7,000 volts along the entire length. If you have 3 miles of fence line with 4 lines of poly wire you actually have 12 miles of fencing material to be powered.
Is electric fencing expensive?
Generally, a homeowner can expect the cost of an electric fence to be between $900 and $1,300 for installation, which she might want to add to her construction budget. This does not include the actual fencing materials or system used.
How much does it cost in electricity to run an electric fence?
So $0.72 is the cost of operating the 10 watt charger for 30 days at this rate, or a whopping cost of $8.64 per year. Now you know how much your electric fencing system is costing you to run.
Can I run an electric fence with a car battery?
Yes you can but this is not recommended as car batteries and leisure batteries are quite different. A car battery will give out a lot of power in the first few days but then lose power gradually over the subsequent weeks and the fence will be less effective until the battery is finally flat.
Does a solar fence charger need a battery?
0:413:30How to Install a Solar Fence Charger: Electric Fence 101 | ZarebaYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd with proper care these batteries will last three to four years before they need replaced.MoreAnd with proper care these batteries will last three to four years before they need replaced.
How far can you run an electric fence?
Generally speaking, you can plan on running one mile of fence per joule of output. The joules will be listed on the outside of the fencer.
How do you hook up an electric fence charger?
0:322:26How to Install an AC (Plugin) Fence Charger: Electric Fence 101 | ZarebaYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipLook for the symbol on your charger. Then connect the wire to a ground rod system using insulatedMoreLook for the symbol on your charger. Then connect the wire to a ground rod system using insulated wire and ground rod clamps. Next connect the fence wire to the fence terminal.
How do I choose an electric fence charger?
As a general rule for multi-wire fences, divide the charger's distance rating by the number of strands, then select a charger with a mileage rating that meets those needs. Always increase power needs when adding additional wires.
How do you power an electric fence?
0:192:17Electric Fence Energizers: What You Need to Know Before BuyingYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipChoose a c4 plugging into an existing electrical connection DC for battery power or a solar poweredMoreChoose a c4 plugging into an existing electrical connection DC for battery power or a solar powered unit. Consider the power output represented.
How many amps does an electric fence charger pull?
Electric fence energisers put out high voltage (around 8,000 volts), but very low amperage or current (around 120 milliamps). This is 120-thousands of an amp. It should not even kill a squirrel.
How many joules does it take to deter deer?
You will need an energizer that can put out at least 1 joule of energy. It's okay if it's slightly under a joule. We recommend the following products for keeping deer out: Fencing: Consider getting Turbo Tape.
How do you run an electric fence?
1:162:34How to Install an Electric Fence | Tractor Supply Co. - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAt the height of the animals nose. Start at the end of the fence. Making sure the wire is runningMoreAt the height of the animals nose. Start at the end of the fence. Making sure the wire is running through each insulator mounted to the post. And is not touching the post or any part of the fence.
Does an electric fence work for deer?
Although deer can jump high and far, their eyes are located on the side of their head, giving them poor depth perception. A 3-dimensional electric fence will not serve as a “deer proof” fence, but can serve as an effective deer deterrent, and may be a less expensive fencing option.
What is a low impedance fence charger?
Low-impedance - A low impedance fence charger means that there is less resistance (or impedance) in the charger so more power can be pushed through the wire. Low-impedance electric fence chargers are the best, latest technology for land with weeds.
How many volts should a fence charger be?
Close to 110-volt AC power source (unless battery or solar powered).
How long does a solar fence battery last?
Lead acid batteries, which are used in solar fence chargers, typically last around 3 years, or around 1,000 days of charging.
What are the different types of fence energizers?
There are three main types of fence energizers: AC (Plugin) Powered. DC (Battery) Powered. Solar Powered. The source of power for the electric fence controller to function determines on the type of charger you will be using. Each type of fence energizer has specific situations in which it is most desirable to use.
What is a fence charger?
Fence chargers are the heart of the fence system, providing the source for the electric current that flows through fence wire. Fence chargers, also known as energizers or fencers, vary by amount of current they output and their power source.
What is a battery operated fence charger?
Battery operated fence chargers are ideal for remote locations or areas without access to AC power. DC-powered chargers use a variety of batteries such as the standard 12-volt, 6-volt, 4-volt, or D-cell, as a power source. Generally speaking, bigger batteries last longer and can create more volts.
How far can an electric fence controller go?
A range of electric fence controllers are available for distances up to 200 miles. Generally speaking, AC electric fence chargers provide the best output of all chargers and are the most popular type of fence charger used in permanent electric fence systems today.
How to measure fence length?
Fence length should be measured by multiplying the actual fence length by the number of wires that are electrified. So, if you have one mile of fence and three wires are electrified, you would need an energizer capable of handling three miles of fencing.
How to protect a fence from lightning?
One way to protect buildings from fires due to lightning strikes is to mount the energizer outside of the building on a fence post. Cover the energizer to protect it ...
What is the impedance of fencing?
Impedance is a measure of how much resistance is present in an electric fencing system. High impedance energizers work best when resistance is higher from dry grass touching the electric wires, when the soil is very dry, or when the fencing system could benefit from additional ground rods.
Can you use solar power with electric power?
Some plug into electric outlets, while others run off of batteries, and yet others use solar power. If electric power is available, use this power supply because it is the most reliable and usually the least expensive.
What is a DC fence charger?
DC Powered. If you have an off-grid farm or a farm located in a rural area, this type of fence charger is the best you can invest in. This DC or otherwise known as a battery-run fence is much simpler to use than AC chargers because it draws or gets its power from a battery rather than being plugged into the wall.
How many volts does a fence charger need?
Both the battery source and solar source can power this fence charger. A 6-volt battery is needed to charge the fence and power with low impedance. This is ideal, and the best fence charger can cover up to 25 miles which fits for small and medium pastures size.
What is the best electric fence guard?
Parmak DF-SP-LI Solar Pak 6 is one of the best electric fence guards. It is America’s made first solar-charged electric fencer. An inbuilt performance meter will give you info about the working process of that electric fence. It also gives a shock through brush and wet weeds. Both the battery source and solar source can power this fence charger. A 6-volt battery is needed to charge the fence and power with low impedance.
How do electric fence chargers work?
These types of electric fence chargers are powered by an electric circuit connected to your electricity grid. They can be plugged in sheds or your barn and an extension cord might as well be run from inside the house to your fence.
How long does a fence charger last?
It can give 21 days of continuous service if the battery is charged. The charger system is all-weather supportable with a sealed battery pack and gives an output rating of 1.5 joules. This fencing charger is mostly suitable for cattle, dogs, horses, pigs, etc.
Why use an electric fence charger?
An electric fence charger is the best option for keeping the livestock safe as well keep them alive from the different predators and carnivorous animals. Choosing the best electric fence charger is quite a time-consuming job.
Why is an electric fence low impedance?
These types of chargers are the best because bushes and weeds do decrease energy output when they crawl on the fence.
How far can an electric fence charger go?
Most manufacturers provide a recommended distance, labeled in miles, for nearly every model. Since some chargers can power fences up to 75 miles, it’s likely that there’s a charger suitable for your property.
What type of charger does a fence use?
A fence charger does not necessarily fill a battery like the name suggests, even though some can. It actually charges the fence with electric current. The main types include AC, DC, and solar.
How much energy does a fence need to deter deer?
Deer require a bit more energy to deter, with outputs between .10 and 1 joule being the best. Keep in mind that electric fences can be useless against a deer. However, many can jump 6-foot-high fences with ease, in which case the addition of a deer repellent might help.
How to understand joules?
The easiest way to understand joules is the higher the number of joules, the more power the fence has. Livestock will often respect a low-output fence, as a quick shock is typically all it takes to remind them of their mistake. But wildlife is another story.
What is an AC fence charger?
AC (Plug-in) There are electric fence chargers that plug directly into the electric grid feeding a property. These units are known as AC or plug-in chargers. They use the grid’s alternating current (AC) to push energy through the fence wires.
What is the ESP10M Z?
The ESP10M-Z has a slotted mounting bracket built into the unit for sliding over a fence post, taking any guesswork out of installation. It also has a built-in on-off switch that lights to indicate that the fence is operating properly.
What to consider when buying an electric fence charger?
Some of the other most essential features to consider include how much power is needed, the size of the fence, and the location of the fence. The following characteristics can help narrow the options to make the best possible decision when shopping for an electric fence charger.
What is joule on fence?
Joule is the product of “voltage” multiplied by “amps” multiplied by “time,” so the higher the pulse’s “time” value, the higher the joule rating. This translates to a safer and more effective charger. Conversely, the lower the figure representing pulse time, the lower the joule capacity, and consequently, the lower the charger’s efficacy.
How many joules does a fence need?
The ideal minimal joule requirement, regardless of the livestock or predator in question, is one joule for every mile of fence. Also, note that a bigger fence is only better until induction takes place. Induction means your fence already poses a danger to people, as it’s already juicing up gates and neutral wire with high energy. Voltage nearing 7000 is likely to cause induction.
What is a fence charger?
A fence charger is the foundation of any electric fence, so much so that choosing the right one is crucial to an electric fence’s efficiency. It is rated in a unit of energy called joules, which is a critical consideration for the device. It’s not enough to have one of the top solar powered fence chargers to imbue their electric fence with energy. Their fencers also have to be within the ideal voltage range to meet their needs.
What happens to miles of miles fence?
There’s no telling what can happen to the miles of miles fence around your range or property. Branches, tall grass, weeds, and other natural occurrences could disrupt the voltage running through it, potentially impacting its effectiveness. It will, in turn, could spell all kinds of consequences for you and whatever’s within your fence.
How much voltage do goats need?
In fact, a fence would have to be around the 4000 to 5000 volta ge range to deter some tenacious goat species.
How much voltage do you need for a hot headed horse?
A 1000 to 2000 voltage range might be enough to deter an agreeable mare, but a hot-headed stallion requires at least a 2000-joule jolt to get the picture that they’re not supposed to come near the fence.
Which is the most economical power source for a fence?
Whichever is the more economical power source, the answer would depend on the fencer’s ease of access. Hydro would be the most viable and cheapest option for a fence close to you. You can then go for batteries if it’s a little farther away and a solar panel if it’s in a remote location.
How much bigger is a charger for electric fence?
It’s generally recommended to buy a charger that has a mile-rating that’s 25% larger than the amount of line you’ll be running hot.
Why do people use electric fences?
Most people use an electric fence to keep livestock from wandering away. Others use it to separate animals by gender or age. An electric fence can also be protective – keeping predators away from livestock or to keep animals of all kinds from invading a garden or cropland. With all those duties possible for an electric fence, ...
How many acres does a 20 joule electric fence charger cover?
This 20-joule AC charger is produced in the US and is designed for larger pastures of up to 640 acres or a fence of 20 miles. This is one of the most robust chargers on the market and is the strongest electric fence charger in our today list.
How many volts does a fence charger need?
You just need to note the following points: – If you choose the AC charger, you must connect it to a power of 110 volts.
What is the best electric fence charger for cattle?
So that’s it, the best electric fence charger for cattle in our today list belongs to #1 Cyclops Master 20 Joule, it has a formidable shock output that deters any kind of predator while still being able to cover a large area up to 20 miles.
What is joule in fencing?
This depends on the electric fence charger used and the power required to shock which is also called joule.
How long is the warranty on a weed charger?
Designed with a sturdy case and a low impedance, the charger maintains its powerful performance even by thick weeds and brush. A one-year warranty includes damage sustained by lightning and can also be extended.
What is a Gallagher S10 solar?
The Gallagher S10 Solar is a perfect tool in remote areas and smaller pasture areas where there is no access to mains power for temporary grazing.
How many miles is a Patriot PE10?
The Patriot PE10 is suitable for a small farm or residence on up to 10 miles. Especially for horses and other small animals, such as cats, chickens, hogs, or goats inside their enclosure, this powerful 0.30-joule AC-powered charge is built for the defense against small predators.
How many pulses per second does a low impedance charger use?
Modern low-impedance chargers use very high voltage and very high amperage, but deliver the electricity in extremely short pulses of about 3 milliseconds, or about 330 pulses per second.
Why are electric fences so popular?
For decades, electric fences have been popular for containing animals and controlling where they graze, and for keeping animal pests out of garden plots. Electric fences are energized by chargers that deliver pulses of high-voltage DC electricity through wires to deter animals with electric shocks.
How much power does a low-impedance charger lose?
Low-impedance chargers lose only 20 percent of their shocking power over five miles of fence.
Can high amperage chargers cause fires?
Increasing the amperage led to fires as the long pulses caused the wires to heat up and ignite the weeds. These later high-impedance chargers could actually electrocute small animals that got caught up in the wires. But even these chargers would lose half their shocking power in just two miles of fence.
Who is Herb Kirchhoff?
Herb Kirchhoff has more than three decades of hands-on experience as an avid garden hobbyist and home handyman. Since retiring from the news business in 2008, Kirchhoff takes care of a 12-acre rural Michigan lakefront property and applies his experience to his vegetable and flower gardens and home repair and renovation projects.
