Nobody wants to run over their rifle in the lounge just because they have witnessed some people passing over the fence that aren’t just here to look around. To ensure that no one ever really think to burg in and steal your valuable assets, any of the best electric fence charger will do the job. Whilst the thought to install in the electric fence, the query of what sort, what model or what feature will be suitable? As to solve that, we have, enlisted the features to look in and top relevant electric fence chargers to consider in purchasing.
Editor's Pick | Name | |
 | Patriot PE2 Electric Fence Energizer |
Based on the durability, power capacity (joules), impedance, fence compatibility, and universality to location, we have selected Patriot PE2 Electric Fence as the most recommended model.
Table of Contents
Features to Look While Buying the Best Electric Fence Charger
In order to avoid the hassle of replacing the electric fence charger that you have order and it is just not compatible with your place, one need to check in some features and considerations, for them to go well, here we have concluded the most essential ones;
Power (Joules)
The power the fence has is measured can be measured and overlooked in the terms of joules—the higher the number of joules, the higher will be the power. Depending on the range of the fence, the joule capacity can be selected;
- for 25—30 miles of fence; 2.5—4 joules
- for 5—9 miles of 0.6—1.1 joules
Trespassing Concerns
Depending on the audience of the fence energizer, the power capacity can be interpreted;
- To remind the wildlife or not so lethal trespassers, a quick jolt of small charge would be enough—2 to 0.4 joules.
- In the military or heavily guarded premises, not mentioning “Area 51”, heavy power capacity to faint out the illegals is practiced—5 to 20+ joules.
Power According to Pests & Predators
Depending on the pests or predators that one needs to thwart off, the power capacity can be detrimental. As certain types of animal might be resisting the jolt than others thus, overviewing will help;
Small Pests
Repelling off small pests like squirrels, raccoons, and other similar sized trespassers, require just a small jolt of electric current—ranging;
- 05 to 0.06 joules
Medium Sized Animals
The medium-sized animals that like to fetch in the boundaries i.e., deer, goats, sheep, etc. require just more than that of smaller pests—the power should be within;
- 10 to 1 joule
As some of the medium-sized animals can jump off the average-sized fence, deer can jump against 6 feet high fence easily. in that case, an electric jolt won’t be helpful, use extension or repellent.
Large Predators
More determined trespassers such predators like coyotes, bears, or foxes require a greater hand of repelling factor. The useful range would be;
- 2 to 4+ joules
As the predators are keen and might do their best to outsmart the fence, the additional lining will be helpful to ensure security.
Impedance
Impedance is the measurement of both resistance and reactance of a circuit. The higher the impedance, the longer will be the pulses of high voltage electricity within lower amperages. Whilst selecting the suitable ratio;
- Chargers with higher impedance might cause a fire—especially when the weed grows onto the fence.
- Lower impedance has plenty of power to jolt out a nosy trespasser and don’t cause a fire.
Uses
The chargers with lower impedance are mostly used in the areas that have over grown plants around, as there is very less tendency of plants catching fire, thus they are considered safe. On the contrary side, the chargers with higher impedance are known for overly secured places like military premises, etc.
Fence Compatibility
The fence on which your charger going to be installed needs to be suitable, it would be hectic to end up with a fence energizer not being sufficient for the length.
Determining the Fence Length
As for the length of the fence, almost every manufacturer labels a recommended distance it can power. Sine, some chargers can power a fence up to 70 kilometers then it won’t be a problem for private or household level property.
Point to Remember: If a charger claims to cover a fence of 10 miles than it doesn’t necessarily mean that it will cover a fence of 10 miles long—in order to get the efficiency of that, one needs to divide the capacity number with the wires being installed in the fence.
For instance: a fence for smaller pests will require a height of 5 to 6 feet consisting of four sets of wire—a fence charger with 2 miles capacity will only cover half a mile for this fence.
Weather Resistance
The electric fence chargers are needed to be placed nearer to the fence as much as possible. Though sometimes, the fence doesn’t have a post or shed to burg in the charger—to hustle that situation, many fence energizers come with weather-resistant features.
- They resist the rain, snow, and other climatical particles.
Aesthetics
As for the fact, the aesthetic is never to be excluded to forgotten, about the electric fence charger, they mainly are; lights, bells, and some gauging displays.
Light Indication
The electric fence chargers come with a light indicator that tells whether the device is in operation or on standby. Also, if it is a portable battery one, then indicates that the device is plugged in for charging or not.
Bells (Alarming Sounds)
The bells whistles are the most fundamental esthetic one could get in the electric fence charger—the alarming sound help you know when someone has tasted the sweet electrical jolt from the fence. They also beep when the battery is near to empty.
Battery Gauges
The portable electric fence charger is required to show battery power left so you could plug in accordingly—thus, the battery gauge is integrated into the relevant models.
Top 6 Best Electric Fence Chargers
| Image | Name | Price |
|---|---|---|
 | Patriot PE2 Electric Fence Energizer -Range: 2 miles -Weight: 1.4 lbs. -Power Source: AC plug in | Check Price |
 | Parmak MAG12-UO Fence Charger -Voltage: 12-Volt -Low Impedance -Range: 30-Mile | Check Price |
 | Parmak Magnum Fence Charger MAG12-SP -Range: 30 Miles -Power Source: Solar -Low Impedance | Check Price |
 | Fi-Shock EAC10M-FS Fence Energizer -Range: 10 Miles (up to 50 miles) -Low Impedance -Power Source: AC plug in | Check Price |
 | Patriot P30 Dual Purpose Electric Fence Energizer -Power Capacity: 3 Joules -Dual Purpose—Solar & AC -Range: 65 miles | Check Price |
 | Zareba EDC5M-Z Electric Fence Charger -Range: 5 miles -Power Capacity: 0.25 Joules -Power Source: Battery | Check Price |
1. Patriot PE2 Electric Fence Energizer
Details
- No Load Voltage = 5,000
- Power Capacity: 0.10 Joules
- 500-ohm Load Voltage = 2,800
- Range: up to 2 miles
- Weight: 1.4 lbs.
- Dimensions: 3 X 10 X 8 inches
- Voltage: 110
- Power Source: AC plug in
The Patriot PE2 electric fence energizer exquisitely deals up to the distance of 8 acres—whilst powering the fence with a capacity of 0.10 joules. The models integrate small dimensions that will allow it to fit anywhere in the post or shed. The operativity is based on 110 to 120 volts.
The manufacturers provide 1-year full replacement warranty in case of malfunctioning or in-operativity. In this economical range, it gives out the 500 ohm load voltage. The efficiency is much greatly known for keeping medium sized animals in place i.e., sheep, deer, pigs, etc.
2. Parmak MAG12-UO Fence Charger
Details
- Voltage: 12-Volt
- Low Impedance
- Range: 30-Mile
- Power Source: Battery Operated
- Weatherproof
- Dimensions: 13 X 11 X 2 inches
- Ideal for Livestock/Predator
- 3-YR Warranty
- Performance Meter
The Parmak MAGNUM 12 ensures high quality safety within a range of up to 30 miles—the model is solemnly resistant to weather conditions, rain/snow fallings. The light weight body allows one to place without any hassle, thus portable. The manufacturer gives in the extended 3-year warranty with the device. The Parmak’s operated over 12 volts thriving a robust capacity of working three months continuously.
The performance meter is built in the device that tells the operativity of the devices, takes the guess out of electric fencing. The material coating and robust construct allows portable installation outside the shed or post. it is designated to work for predators and livestock.
3. Parmak Magnum Fence Charger MAG12-SP
Details
- Voltage: 12 V
- Low Impedance
- Power Source: Solar
- Weight: 22 lbs.
- Dimensions: 21 X 17 X 11 inches
- Range: 30 Miles
- Power Capacity: 3.1 Joules
- Weather-Proof
- Completely Portable
The Parmak MAG12-SP is based on highly portable system consisting of photovoltaic plates. The solar integration removes the hassle of changing the batteries or constantly plugging in the power source. The low impedance gives in the high-power efficiency. the model covers a robust range of up to 30 miles. The weather proof construct allows the user to install it even in the harshest climates.
The swift power capacity of up to 3.1 joules covers an ideal range of pasture suitably. The solar panels are durable and tolerant to climatical damage—in the day time, they charge up the battery that at the time of night, keeps the fence electrified.
4. Fi-Shock EAC10M-FS Fence Energizer
Details
- Range: 10 Miles (up to 50 miles)
- Low Impedance
- Power Source: AC plug in
- Weight: 3.1 lbs.
- Dimensions: 4 X 9 X 11 Inches
- Power Capacity: 0.5 Joule
- No Load Voltage: 10,500 volts
- Full Load Tested
The Fi-Shock EAC10M works in heavy conditions of growing weeds—usually, the growth of weed over the fence empowered with this much capacity can cause fire but this model is efficient in sustaining peace. The light weight body of 3.1 lbs. and compact dimensions make it easy to be installed any where in the place. The model is powered through the AC plug in via a standard 2 prong outlet.
The model is not tolerant to weather conditions, to protect it from the elements, place it in the weather proof box. The manufacturers claim a warranty of up to 1 year that also covers the damage from lightning. The working of the model is completely guaranteed as it comes with full load tested label.
5. Patriot P30 Dual Purpose Electric Fence Energizer
Details
- Power Capacity: 3 Joules
- Dual Purpose—Solar & AC
- Range: 65 miles
- No Load Voltage: 11,000
- 500 Ohm Load Voltage: 6,400
- Low Impedance
- LED Indicator
- Easy Mounting Options
The Patriot P30 Electric Fence Energizer covers the user in culprit of power outage by keeping the fence energy high with 12 V battery backup. In normal conditions, the AC plug of 110 V power source is input for the operativity. The manufacturers put in the 2-year fully replacement warranty that will help in the case of lightning and other climatical damage.
The no load voltage of 11,000 and power capacity of 3.0 joules protects the place ideally from the predators, small pests, and other medium sized animals. The LED indicator in the model tells the power intake, operativity and charging status. Low impedance shifts in the high efficiency power covering the fence length up to 65 miles.
6. Zareba EDC5M-Z Electric Fence Charger
Details
- Range: 5 miles
- Power Capacity: 0.25 Joules
- Power Source: Battery
- Battery Capacity: 6 or 12 Volts
- Light Indication
- Easy Grip Terminals
- Weather Resistant Case
- Battery Life: 4 to 5 Weeks
The Zareba EDC5M-Z fence charger is based on 6-to-12-volt battery that covers a fence range of 5 miles. The minimal power capacity of 0.25 joules makes it efficient for smaller sized animals and pests i.e., dogs, cows, rabbits, horses. Pigs, chickens, etc. The electric jolts are integrated with intervals of 1 seconds. The model is likewise tolerant to moderate weed conditions.
The manufacturers give in the 1-year full replacement warranty that cover liminary damages and malfunctioning. A compact constructed case is included with the fence charger, this makes it tolerant against weather conditions. The digital timing and light indicator is likewise induced—the light indicates whether the charger is working.
How to Install Electric Fence Chargers?
How Electric Fence Charges Work?
Electric charges only flow when the circuit is complete. This means that a circuit must be closed at both ends for the circuit to work. In contrary if any of the side of the circuit is not closed or connected properly, the circuit will become an open circuit and it will not work. The electric fence also works on this exact same principle. For example; if we talk about the most basic example of electrocuting it would be the normal current a person can face when the person has a contact to electricity and one is barefooted. In this scenario the person becomes the conductor between the switch/socket one is in contact with and the earth. The fence is created to allow the charges to flow from the socket to the earth.
Types of Fences Chargers Based on Working
As the electric jolt being passed by the fence charger depends on the working type, based on this, there are two main sorts of charger;
- Pulsed Chargers
- Capacitor Chargers
Pulsed Chargers
These chargers give out non-spontaneous electric shocks to the fence—a certain time interval is set between the shocks and this is how they are called pulsed chargers, as the electricity flows in pulses. Usually, every second or two, pulsed fence chargers give a voltage spike through the fence.
How Electric Jolts are Created in Pulses?
A step-up transformer takes electricity from a power source, (such as a 120-volt grid) and significantly raises the voltage. A moving magnetic field is generated when alternating current flows through a coil. If another coil of wire is nearby, the magnetic field causes an electric current to flow through it. The second coil would have a higher voltage than the first because it has more wire turns. Every second or so, a timer switch activates, sending a pulse through the fence and another through the ground. This creates a loop of readily pulses (electric jolts) through the fence.
Efficiency
There is very little power used if nothing completes the circuit. However, if anything links the ground to the fence during the pulse, the circuit is completed and the person is shocked.
Capacitor Chargers
The electric jolts are given out through the already stored energy in a bank—they are not dependent on time and competes with the trespasser as far as it touches the fence.
How Electric Jolts are Created in It?
A small amount of energy is temporarily stored in the capacitor. In the meantime, a slight voltage is applied to the fence. When someone hits the fence, the voltage activates an electrical switch, causing the capacitor to discharge into the fence.
Are Capacitor Chargers Better From Pulse Chargers?
Although the amount of electricity in a pulsed charge will vary greatly, the capacitor still carries the same amount of electricity. As a result, capacitor chargers are more dependable and stable than pulsed chargers, that can deliver varying shocks depending on the circumstances.
Types of Electric Fence Chargers Based On Power Source
The name might suggest, but typically it doesn’t fill a battery—nevertheless, necessarily it do charge up the fence with the electric current. As for the distribution of the fence chargers, they are based on the power source;
AC (Plugged)
These sort of electric fence chargers draws their power from the direct source by being plugged in. Looking into some of the insights are;
- Alternating current from grid pushes the energy through the fence wires.
- Can be safely installed inside the shed or garage while wires being connected to the fence.
- The most economical type of the electric fence charger.
- Cover the longest ranges of fence—up to 75 miles.
- The con side; power out will put your guard off.
- The other con side; figuring out a power source whilst installation puts in an extra hassle.
DC (Batteries)
In this case, the power drawn is from the battery—it might be intriguing to as a large fence being powered from a limited power source but it still does the job. The DC chargers converts the power from a battery into necessary voltage that electrifies the fence.
- There is no hustle of finding power source nearby to operate.
- They don’t require long taking installation procedures.
- A fully charged battery can operate up to a month.
- The con side; range is much shorted—up to 10 miles.
Whilst considering this for your fence, make sure you get an extra set of battery systems, as you change them requisitely—keeping the guard down while charging the battery is just menace.
Solar
Avoiding the hassle of plug in the fence energizer or even charging the battery of it is done by the solar integrated systems. The energy for working is drawn from certain solar system installed on them. The larger the capacity of current, the larger will be the solar panel.
- They require much lower maintenance than a DC fence charger.
- They don’t face in-operativity when the power turns down unlike an AC plug-in one.
- The sunlight is necessary for the operativity, efficient models can sustain the work till a week without sun light on them.
- One need to check them periodically, as weed and other shrubs can grow over the panel.
- In the remote areas, where there are no certain power backups available, they are a good option.
- The con side; they might be pricier.
Checking them once in a week is necessary that will ensure whether the photovoltaic panels are working and storing the energy in the batteries.
Components of Fence Charges
Components of a fencing can be different depending on the type of fencing used, how much is the capacity of electrocution/electric charges are flown and how strong or weak charges are required. But some common components used in every electric fence are:
Battery
A battery is required to connect both ends of the circuit to complete it and make the fence electrocuted. Battery is the main source that provides electrical energy to the fence to run the charges across the fence.
Energizer
The energizer, as the name suggests is used to energize the fence to make the current solid and more powerful around the fence to make it more protected and create a high voltage impulse. Impulse is basically the current flowing in the wires of the fence to make it more protected for the things inside the fence.
Poly wire/galvanized wire
It is a wire used as a conductor. The wire is so popular because it works fine in all the weather conditions and is reliable. It acts as a conductor to carry current from one side of the fence to the other.
Insulators
Insulators are considered an important part of the fence to limit the current supply whenever it gets too much. Also, insulators are important to prevent any big damage to the things present inside the fence.
Problems Faced While Using Fence Chargers
As every thing good comes with something messy, there are some common problems that are faced whilst the working of fence chargers.
Very Strong Charge
If the charges are very strong, one can get hurt or face sever muscular injury. If one is thrown away by the electrocution one might hurt himself physically.
Battery Over-usage
Sometimes, if the battery is overused, it can burn to cause damage to the wiring of the fence chargers.
Water Particulates
Raining over the fence constantly can make the fence chargers more charged, hence can make the earth around the fence electrocuted.
Tips for Fence Charger to Work Efficiently
In order to make sure your guard keeps constantly on, rekindling some tips will help you attain that. An electric fence works best when;
Quality of Wire
The higher the quality of the poly wire, and galvanized wire used, the lower the resistance to the pulse and therefore the greater the current flow down the line.
Use T-section Earth Stakes
A quality earth stake is needed. An earth stake must be driven as deep as it can go into the dirt. It should be placed away from tree roots and foundations. Since T section earth stakes have a greater surface area, they have a more effective earth device.
Don’t Shorten the Fence Wire
The fence should not be shortened. This means that the live wire conductor must be properly shielded/ insulated against wood, metal, vegetation, and other things.
Myth About the Electric Fence Charger’s Working
It is not necessary to set up an electric fence as a circuit. It could theoretically travel a ton of miles in one direction. When an animal/human touches the wire, it generates a loop or circuit by allowing the pulse to travel through it and through the ground, which is the only circuit produced by electric fencing.
Conclusion
Being secured by the electrocution on the fence that thwarts off certain threats or trespassers will help one sleep calmly. Now, the models, range of the fence chargers should be suitable to that of your need. For this purpose, our article here covers you up, we have enlisted the features and think one needs to look in order buy the suitable models—they are power capacity, impedance, durability, power source, battery indication, alarming bells, weather resistance, and some other aesthetics. To ease up the search, we have already carved out the so far best electric fence chargers.
FAQs
How do I choose a fence charger?
Whilst the selection of the electric fence charger, one needs to look into two things; requirements and relevant model. As for the requirement, check the length of fence for that you need the charger, also check the set of wire installed in the fence, likewise study your audience, i.e., if it is deer you need to thwart off then 0.4 joules will be enough, (considering average fence length).
How much power should be in my fence charger?
It solemnly depends on your need, if you need to thwart off predators—coyotes, wild boars, bears etc. then 2 to 4 joules will be enough, but if it is sort of minor category you are dealing like raccoons, squirrels, and other similar sized animals then; 0.05 to 0.07 joules will give the suitable jolts.
Is electric fence charger dangerous?
They are dangerous when too much power been put in the electric fence charger. The electric jolts from a 2-joule fence charger will be much dazzling for smaller animals but it will help in thwarting off larger predators like wild boars, bears, coyotes etc.
How much length a fence charger can cover?
The range varies from model to model but it likewise depends on your need as well. A good category AC plug-in fence charger can electrify a fence of up to 75 miles. On the other hand, DC (battery) based chargers can cover up to 10 miles of fence and solar ones have sort of the nearing range to it.
Which one is the best electric fence charger?
Depending on the range, there may be many, but because of durability and backing one up in the times of power outs—Zareba EDC5M-Z Electric Fence Charger is requisitely unquestionable. It is suitable for thwarting off cows, pigs, and other exotic animals back to their field.
Data Source
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_fence?wprov=srpw1_0
- https://web.archive.org/web/20110720105607/https://www.joburg-archive.co.za/2008/pdfs/cptedbooklet.pdf
- https://www.wikihow.com/Install-an-Electric-Fence
- https://www.wikihow.com/Install-and-Use-a-Temporary-Electric-Fence-for-Cattle