Are you considering installing an electric fence on your property to contain or exclude animals? One important decision you’ll need to make is choosing the right battery powered electric fencer for your electric fencing system. But with so many options available, how do you determine which one is the best fit for your needs?
In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of selecting the ideal battery powered electric fencer. We’ll explore the factors to consider, such as the length of the fence and the number of wires, and we’ll reveal the recommended energizer capacity based on your fence requirements. Additionally, we’ll help you understand the different types of fence chargers available and their advantages, whether AC-powered, DC-powered, or solar-powered.
By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to choose the best battery powered electric fencer, ensuring the safety, reliability, and effectiveness of your electric fencing system.
Key Takeaways:
- Consider the length of your electric fence and the number of wires to determine the energizer capacity you need.
- Choose a stronger energizer for containing or excluding well-insulated animals and electric netting.
- Trade up in energizers and opt for mains or solar power for reliability and future expansion.
- Low-impedance fence chargers are ideal for land with weeds, while solid-state fence chargers are best for controlling shorthaired livestock, small animals, and pets in light weed conditions.
- AC-powered fence chargers are convenient for areas with access to an AC power source, while DC-powered and solar-powered chargers are suitable for remote locations.
Choosing the Right Fence Charger
The fence charger, also known as the energizer or fencer, is the heart of the electric fence system and provides the source for the electric current.
The size of the fence charger needed depends on 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.
Low-impedance fence chargers are recommended for land with weeds, while solid-state fence chargers are best for controlling shorthaired livestock, small animals, and pets in light weed conditions.
Fence chargers can be AC-powered, DC-powered (battery-operated), or solar-powered. Each type has its own advantages and is suitable for different situations.
AC-powered fence chargers are convenient if you have access to an AC power source and generally provide the best output.
DC-powered fence chargers are ideal for remote locations or areas without access to AC power. They use batteries as a power source and need to be recharged regularly.
Solar-powered fence chargers are perfect for fences in remote locations without access to an AC outlet. They rely on solar panels to collect energy from the sun and charge the battery.
It is important to choose the right fence charger based on your specific needs and circumstances to ensure the effective and reliable operation of your electric fence system.
Battery Options for Electric Fencing
When it comes to powering your electric fence, choosing the right battery is crucial for reliable operation and long-lasting performance. Leisure or Agri batteries are highly recommended for use with electric fencing systems. Unlike car batteries, these specialized batteries are designed to handle the discharge and recharge cycles required by electric fences.
There are various options available for 12v batteries, allowing you to select the one that best meets the specific needs of your electric fence. Options include 36 amp/hr, 75 amp/hr, and 110 amp/hr batteries. The choice of battery capacity depends on factors such as the length of the fence, the number of wires, and the energizer’s power output.
To ensure optimal performance, it is essential to regularly recharge your batteries. The recommended interval for recharging depends on the battery type and usage. By following the manufacturer’s guidelines and recharging your batteries as recommended, you can maintain their best condition and prolong their lifespan.
It’s important to note that car batteries are not suitable for electric fencing. Car batteries are designed for quick discharge and recharging in vehicles, whereas Agri batteries provide a longer-lasting and slower release of energy, ensuring consistent power supply for your electric fence system.
Proper battery care is crucial to maximize the lifespan and efficiency of your battery. This includes using the correct charger for your specific battery type and recharging at regular intervals. Taking these measures will not only extend the life of your battery but also ensure the reliable operation of your electric fence, giving you peace of mind.
FAQ
What factors should I consider when selecting an energizer for my electric fence?
When selecting an energizer for your electric fence, it is important to consider the length of the fence and the number of wires. A general rule of thumb is to multiply the length of the fence by the number of horizontal lines to determine the total distance requirement for the energizer.
What type of energizer should I choose for containing well-insulated animals?
It is advisable to choose a stronger energizer for containing or excluding well-insulated animals, such as sheep and rabbits, as well as for powering electric netting.
Should I trade up in energizers for future expansion?
Yes, it is recommended to trade up in energizers to be prepared for future expansion. Additionally, consider choosing a mains or solar energizer for reliability.
What energizer should I choose for a 1.8-kilometer long fence?
The recommended energizer will depend on the length of the electric fence. For example, a fence up to 1.8 kilometers in length would require an energizer with at least 2.5 joules of stored energy.
What is the fence charger and what does it do?
The fence charger, also known as the energizer or fencer, is the heart of the electric fence system and provides the source for the electric current.
How do I choose the right size fence charger?
The size of the fence charger needed depends on 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.
What type of fence chargers are recommended for land with weeds?
Low-impedance fence chargers are recommended for land with weeds.
What type of fence chargers are best for shorthaired livestock and small animals in light weed conditions?
Solid-state fence chargers are best for controlling shorthaired livestock, small animals, and pets in light weed conditions.
What are the different power sources for fence chargers?
Fence chargers can be AC-powered, DC-powered (battery-operated), or solar-powered. Each type has its own advantages and is suitable for different situations.
What are the advantages of AC-powered fence chargers?
AC-powered fence chargers are convenient if you have access to an AC power source and generally provide the best output.
What are the advantages of DC-powered fence chargers?
DC-powered fence chargers are ideal for remote locations or areas without access to AC power. They use batteries as a power source and need to be recharged regularly.
What are the advantages of solar-powered fence chargers?
Solar-powered fence chargers are perfect for fences in remote locations without access to an AC outlet. They rely on solar panels to collect energy from the sun and charge the battery.
What types of batteries are recommended for electric fencing?
Leisure or Agri batteries are recommended for use with electric fencing as they are designed to be discharged and recharged, unlike car batteries.
What are the different options for 12v batteries for electric fencing?
There are different options for 12v batteries, including 36 amp/hr, 75 amp/hr, and 110 amp/hr batteries. The choice depends on the specific needs of your electric fence.
How often should I recharge the batteries for my electric fence?
It is important to regularly recharge the batteries to maintain their best condition. The recommended interval for recharging varies depending on the battery type and usage.
Can I use a car battery for electric fencing?
No, car batteries are not recommended for electric fencing as they are designed for quick discharge and recharging in cars. Agri batteries provide longer-lasting and slower release of energy.
How can I extend the life of my electric fence battery?
Proper battery care, including using the correct charger and recharging at regular intervals, can extend the life of the battery and ensure efficient operation of the electric fence system.