Beatrice Lang
Electric fence energizers are a simple and effective way to keep livestock contained and wild animals out of your yard. They are also easy to install and maintain. This guide will take you through the steps of connecting an electric fence energizer, from selecting the right charger and wire to mounting the insulators and checking the voltage.
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What You'll Learn
Choosing a charger
The charger is the heart of an electric fence system, providing the source of electric current that flows through the fence wire. The size of the charger needed depends on four main factors: the length of the fence, the number of wires, the power source (AC, DC, or solar), and the type of animal being contained or excluded.
AC-powered chargers are the most popular type of fence charger used in permanent electric fence systems today. They are powered directly by a connection to the electrical grid and are convenient and easy to use. If you have access to AC power, AC-operated models are the most convenient and typically have greater energy output. They are ideal for large acreage pastures, with a range of electric fence controllers available for distances up to 200 miles.
Battery-operated fence chargers are ideal for remote locations or areas without access to AC power. They are simple to use and draw power from an internal or external power source, depending on the model. Commonly used batteries include 12-volt, 6-volt, 4-volt, or D-cell batteries, which may be rechargeable or need replacement.
Solar-powered electric fence chargers are perfect for fences in remote locations without access to an AC outlet or other power sources. They are lightweight and easy to transport, making them suitable for rotational or strip grazing systems. Solar chargers typically contain a battery for energy storage, with the solar panel charging the battery.
Low-impedance chargers are the latest technology, delivering more power through the wire and making them ideal for land with weeds. Solid-state fence chargers, on the other hand, deliver a medium amperage shock in medium-duration pulses, making them suitable for controlling shorthaired livestock, small animals, and pets in light weed conditions.
When choosing a charger, it is important to consider the specific needs of your fencing system, including the length of the fence, the number of wires, and the type of animals involved. Additionally, factors such as soil conductivity and the presence of undergrowth or weeds along the fence line may impact the effectiveness of the charger and should be taken into account when making your decision.
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Selecting wire type
Selecting the right wire type for your electric fence depends on several factors, including the purpose of the fence, the type and size of animal being contained or repelled, and how long the fence will be in place. Here are some common wire types to consider:
Poly Wire
Poly wire is the most common temporary fencing option. It is made of plastic strands and embedded thin metal wires that carry the electrical current. The individual strands are twisted tightly together to form a single wire. Poly wire is highly visible, won't rust, and is suitable for cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs. For horses, a larger diameter of 5mm is recommended for improved visibility.
Poly Tape
Poly tape threads plastic and wire strands together, creating a highly visible ribbon. It is strong, weather-resistant, and rustproof. The thicker tape is recommended for perimeter fences due to its enhanced visibility and superior strength. However, in areas with strong winds, poly braid is a better choice for perimeter fencing.
Steel Wire
Steel wire is a common choice for permanent perimeter fences. It can be used with any type of charger and can carry a charge for long distances when connected properly. Galvanized steel wire is designed to last the lifetime of the fence.
Aluminum Wire
Aluminum wire is another option for permanent fencing. It is more affordable than steel wire but may stretch over time, resulting in a sloppy appearance.
Woven Wire
Woven wire is more costly to install but is safer and less expensive than wood or pipe fencing. It is effective for containing pigs, sheep, or goats, especially when combined with barbed wire and/or electric wire. However, woven wire with large openings can be hazardous to wild animals and horses. In such cases, a variation called "field fence" with narrower openings at the bottom and wider openings at the top should be used.
Equine Fence Wire
If you own horses, equine fence wire is the safest and most effective option. It uses a specially designed wire coating to reduce the risk of injury. It is a high-tension, long-life fence.
When selecting wire for your electric fence, remember that the wire's gauge matters. The lower the gauge number, the thicker the wire. For longer fences and larger animals, a larger diameter wire is recommended to transmit a stronger electrical current.
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Installing insulators
Insulators are important to install as they keep the electricity in the wires and away from the posts. The type of insulator you use will depend on the type of fence wire you purchase, as manufacturers will usually include and design insulators tailored to their products. The most common are insulators that allow braided or rope-style fencing enough space to slide through, helping to avoid rubbing.
Insulators are not necessary for line posts, but they are required for attachment at corners and end posts. Two types of insulators are recommended for ends and corners: the double-U and the bullnose. Black plastic insulators are preferable, as black plastic tends to be more resistant to degradation by UV rays. Porcelain is less desirable as it tends to develop small cracks that can hold water and conduct electricity.
When installing insulators, it is important to avoid metal posts as they can cause faults in the electric fence system. Rebar step-in posts and plastic claw insulators, commonly used in temporary electric fencing, should also be avoided. A deer or another animal hitting the wire can pop the fingers off the insulator, causing the wire to snap back against the post and ground out. Instead, posts should be self-insulated. Wood-plastic composite posts are a good option as they are flexible, lightweight, resistant to rot, splinter-free, easy to drive into the ground, and don't conduct electricity. PVC T-posts are another good choice as they are also splinter-free, non-conductive, easy to drive, and fire-resistant.
Insulated fencing wire is designed for the high voltages of electric fences. However, any small nick in the wire can cause sparks to leak out. Therefore, it is recommended to place the wire inside a more insulated tube underground.
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Connecting the lines
Firstly, it is important to select the right type of charger for your electric fence. If you opt for a solar charger, you won't need an electric outlet, but you will need access to a good amount of sunlight. Electric chargers, on the other hand, must be positioned near an AC outlet. It is recommended to choose a charger rated in joules, as this will provide a more consistent electrical current.
Once you have selected the appropriate charger, you can begin the process of connecting the lines. Start by finding a suitable location for your electric fence energizer. Mains units should be placed under an overhang or inside a basement or garage, within easy reach of a power source. Battery units should be sited away from traffic to avoid damage, and solar units should be well-protected as they are very fragile.
The next step is to install a ground rod that is suitable for your energizer and fence. For a fence that extends more than 100 meters from the energizer, you will need a longer ground rod. Now, run a high-voltage cable from the Earth terminal (usually black) on the energizer to the grounding rod. Secure the connection with a grounding clamp, ensuring the clamp goes through both the wire and the rod.
Then, run another high-voltage cable from the Live terminal (usually red) on the energizer to the fence. Utilize a suitable clamp to connect the energizer to the fence securely. At this point, you can switch on the energizer and check the voltage.
Finally, use a voltmeter to test the lines and ensure electricity is flowing through the entire fence. Record the voltage and compare it to daily checks of the current to prevent signal problems and make any necessary corrections.
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Testing the voltage
Voltmeter Testing
Use a voltmeter to test the voltage of your electric fence. This tool will help you measure the electricity flowing through the fence. Before turning on the charger, connect all the lines and recheck the connections to ensure they are secure. Once everything is set up, turn on the charger.
Measuring Voltage
The voltmeter will display the voltage reading, which should be between 6000 and 10,000 volts for an unconnected charger. Write down this initial voltage reading, as it will serve as a reference point for future checks. It is important to test the voltage at the point farthest away from the charger to ensure electricity is flowing through the entire fence.
Voltage Drop
After turning on the charger and measuring the initial voltage, recheck the voltage at the farthest point from the charger. You should expect a slight drop in voltage at this point, but it should not exceed a 2000-volt difference. If the voltage drop is more significant, it could indicate a short circuit or interference in the fence.
Daily Voltage Checks
To ensure the consistent functioning of your electric fence, it is recommended to perform daily voltage checks. Regular monitoring helps prevent signal problems and allows for prompt corrections if the voltage drops below the optimal range. Compare the daily readings to the initial voltage you recorded to identify any significant deviations.
Troubleshooting
If your voltage readings are consistently low or you encounter frequent voltage drops, there may be an issue with your electric fence's setup or components. Check all connections, ensuring that the wires are securely clamped and that there is no corrosion or damage. Additionally, inspect the grounding rod setup and ensure it is installed correctly according to the manufacturer's instructions.
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