Otis Singleton
An energizer, also known as a fencer, is a crucial component of an electric fence. It is the source of electrical current that determines the zap when the fence is touched, creating a psychological barrier for animals and humans. The energizer converts power into a high-voltage energy stream, with pulses lasting less than 3/10,000 of a second and occurring every 1-2 seconds. The energizer's power source can vary, including AC power, DC battery power, or solar power, each with its advantages and considerations. The choice of energizer depends on factors such as fencing setup, length, power source, and type of animal being contained. Selecting the right energizer is essential to ensure the electric fence functions effectively and safely.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | The energizer is the cornerstone of any electric fence. It is the source of electrical current to the fence and determines the "zap" when touched. |
| Power Source | Plug-in (AC), battery (DC), solar panel, or a combination of these. |
| Voltage | 2000-6000 volts. |
| Pulse Frequency | Less than 3/10,000 of a second in duration. |
| Pulse Interval | Every 1-2 seconds. |
| Power Consumption | Low. |
| Safety | Safe for animals and humans. |
| Effectiveness | Effective at deterring animals and wildlife, including deer, dogs, and iguanas. |
| Ease of Use | Easy to set up and use. |
| Cost | Varies depending on the type and quality of the energizer. |
| Maintenance | Requires less maintenance than non-electric fences as animals do not crowd, rub, or scratch on them. |
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What You'll Learn
Electric fence energisers are also known as 'fencers'
Electric fence energisers, also known as fencers, are the cornerstone of any electric fence. They are the source of electrical current to your fence, determining the "zap" when touched, as long as the fence is properly grounded. The energiser is supplied with power from the mains, a battery, or a rechargeable battery with solar support. The energiser then releases an electrical pulse along a connected bare wire about once per second. Another terminal is connected to a metal rod implanted in the earth, called a ground or earth rod. When an animal touches the fence, the electric circuit is closed, and the energy flows from the fence through the animal to the earth and then back through the ground rod system to the energiser, creating the standard electrical circuit.
The energiser contains a transformer, which increases the electric potential. Capacitors store the higher electric potential and release it in pulses to the fence. The amount of energy sent through the fence is indicated by output joules, while stored joules refer to the amount of energy in an energiser's capacitors. Volts are a measure of electric potential, comparable to water pressure. The energiser must put out enough energy to deliver the right voltage along the entire fence.
There are three main types of energisers: AC-powered/plug-in, DC-powered/battery-powered, and solar-powered. AC energisers are the most popular and perfect for large areas of fencing. If a reliable source of 110V or 220V power is available, AC energisers are suitable for fence lines up to 200 miles long. DC energisers are battery-operated and ideal for remote locations without access to electrical outlets. Solar energisers are similar to battery-powered options and are best for areas without access to electrical outlets. They contain a battery for energy storage, while the attached solar panel collects the sun's energy to charge the battery.
The type of energiser required depends on the fencing setup, including the length of the fence, the number of wires being electrified, the power source, and the type of animal being contained or excluded. For example, heavy animals are more affected by the electric pulse due to their weight compressing the topsoil, reducing its electrical resistance. The energiser must be powerful enough to meet these needs. Additionally, dry, sandy, or rocky soil increases resistance, resulting in a weaker and less effective pulse. To overcome this, additional ground rods or a higher output energiser may be necessary.
When selecting an energiser, it is crucial to determine the power source. If the fence is close to a power outlet, an energiser that plugs into the mains is often the cheapest and easiest solution. As the fence moves further from an outlet, running wires becomes expensive, and other power options become more attractive. Deep-cycling 12-volt marine batteries can be used, preferably with at least two to swap out while one charges. For remote locations, solar panels may be the best solution, although they tend to be the most expensive power source.
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Energisers are rated in joules, a unit of energy
An energizer, also known as a fencer, is the cornerstone of any electric fence. It is the source of electrical current to the fence, determining the "zap" when touched. Energizers are rated in joules, a unit of energy. Your energizer must put out enough energy to deliver the right voltage along the entire fence. The more holes in the drip tape, the less water will make it to the end. Similarly, weeds, tall grass, and branches touching your electric fence drain energy, reducing the voltage it delivers.
Output joules indicate the amount of energy sent through the fence, while stored joules refer to the amount of energy in an energizer's capacitors. The energizer contains a transformer, which increases the electric potential. Capacitors store this higher electric potential and release it in pulses to the fence. The output energy, quoted as "Joules", is the energy available for use and is always lower than the stored energy.
The type of energizer you need depends on your fencing setup, including the length of the fence, the number of wires, the power source, and the type of animal being contained or excluded. Energizers can be AC-powered/plug-in, DC-powered/battery-powered, or solar-powered. AC energizers are the most popular and perfect for large areas of fencing. DC energizers are ideal for remote locations without access to electrical outlets. Solar energizers are best for areas without access to electrical outlets, but they tend to be the most expensive power source.
When selecting an energizer, it is crucial to determine your power source. If the fence is close to an outlet, an energizer that plugs into the hydro is often the cheapest and easiest solution. For remote locations, a solar panel may be the best solution, as it recharges the battery and is less likely to lose power. Deep-cycling 12-volt marine batteries are another potential power source, but you will need at least two to swap out while one is charging.
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Power sources include hydro, solar, and battery
An energizer is an essential component of an electric fence, delivering voltage along the fence to deter animals from touching it. The power sources for these energizers include hydro, solar, and battery options, each with its own advantages and considerations.
Battery-operated energizers offer flexibility and convenience, particularly in locations without access to AC power. They are ideal for powering remote areas and can be used with medium-length fences. It is important to consider battery life and accessibility for replacement when opting for this power source. The Zareba Systems 5-Mile Battery Operated Electric Fence Charger, for example, is designed to control various animals and keep out pests, featuring digital timing and a rugged, weather-resistant case.
Solar power is another option for energizers, especially in remote areas without access to power outlets. Solar panels recharge batteries, reducing the likelihood of power loss. However, solar panels tend to be more expensive and require a minimum of 4-6 hours of daily direct sunlight to be effective. The Zareba 10-Mile Solar Low Impedance Fence Charger is an example of a solar-powered energizer that can power remote fields and support animals such as cattle, horses, and goats.
Combining solar and battery power is also possible, with solar panels recharging batteries to power the electric fence. This setup is portable, quick to install, and does not require underground cables. The Patriot PS5 Solar Energizer is a 4V energizer that can control up to 2 miles or 8 acres for small animals.
Hydro-powered energizers are another option, although they were not as prevalent in the sources provided. These energizers likely harness the power of water flow to generate electricity and power the electric fence.
When selecting an energizer, it is important to consider factors such as fence length, number of strands, and potential load from weeds, tall grass, or branches. The energizer must provide enough energy (joules) to overcome these loads and deliver the right voltage along the entire fence.
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Energisers are the source of electrical current to the fence
An energizer, also known as a fencer, is the source of electrical current for an electric fence. It is the cornerstone of any electric fence, and selecting the right one is crucial. The energizer converts power into a brief high-voltage pulse, which is sent down the conductor. The energizer is supplied with power from the mains, a battery, or a rechargeable battery (some with solar support).
There are three different types of energizers: AC-powered/plug-in, DC-powered/battery-powered, and solar-powered. AC energizers are the most popular and are perfect for large areas of fencing. If a reliable source of 110V or 220V power is available, AC energizers are suitable for fence lines up to 200 miles long. DC energizers are battery-operated and ideal for remote locations where an electrical outlet is unavailable. Solar energizers are best for areas without access to an electrical outlet, and although they tend to be the most expensive power source, they are less likely to lose power than batteries alone.
The energizer puts out a certain amount of energy, quoted as "Joules", which is the energy available for use. The energizer must put out enough energy to deliver the right voltage along the entire fence. This is important because weeds, tall grass, and branches touching the electric fence drain energy, reducing the voltage. The energizer contains a transformer, which increases the electric potential. The higher electric potential is then stored in capacitors and released in pulses to the fence.
The energizer is also responsible for determining the "zap" when touched, as long as the fence is properly grounded. When an animal touches the fence, the circuit is closed, and the energy flows from the fence through the animal to the earth and then back through the ground rod system to the energizer. This creates the standard electrical circuit. The effects of the shock depend on the voltage, the energy of the pulse, the degree of contact between the recipient and the fence and ground, and the route of the current through the body.
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Energisers are rated as AC-powered, DC-powered, or solar-powered
Electric fence energisers are rated as AC-powered, DC-powered, or solar-powered. The type of power source you choose will depend on your specific needs and circumstances.
AC-powered energisers are connected to a power outlet, typically providing 110V or 120V of electric potential. They are often the cheapest and easiest option if your fence is located near a power source. AC-powered energisers are generally considered more powerful than solar-powered ones, making them a reliable choice.
DC-powered energisers, on the other hand, use batteries as their power source. This type of energiser needs to be easily accessible to facilitate battery changes. DC-powered energisers are commonly used in remote locations where there is no electric infrastructure. They require regular maintenance to ensure that batteries are swapped out before they run out of charge.
Solar-powered energisers are an attractive option for those seeking a mobile power source for their electric fences. They are ideal for locations far away from power outlets. Solar energisers tend to be more expensive, but they are less likely to lose power as the solar panel recharges the battery. However, they require a minimum of 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily to function effectively.
Some energisers also offer rechargeable batteries with solar support, combining the benefits of both power sources. This option provides flexibility and helps ensure a consistent power supply.
When choosing between AC-powered, DC-powered, or solar-powered energisers, consider factors such as proximity to a power source, cost, power requirements, and maintenance needs. Each type has unique advantages that cater to different use cases and preferences.
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Frequently asked questions
An energizer, also known as a fencer, is the cornerstone of any electric fence. It is the source of electrical current to your fence. This is what determines the "zap" when touched, as long as the fence is properly grounded.
There are three types of energizers: AC-powered/plug-in, DC-powered/battery-powered, and solar-powered. AC energizers are the most popular and are perfect for large areas of fencing. DC energizers are ideal for remote locations where an electrical outlet is unavailable. Solar energizers are best in areas without access to an electrical outlet.
Energizers are rated in joules, which is a unit of energy. Your energizer must put out enough energy to deliver the right voltage along the entire fence. The energizer contains a transformer, which increases the electric potential. Capacitors store the higher electric potential and release it in pulses to the fence.
