Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Power Source
The power source is called a controller, a charger, a “fencer,” a transformer, or an energizer.
It is usually one of three types: plug-in, battery, or solar. Battery-powered transformers are
handy for temporary or remote situations, but the need to replace or recharge the batteries
every 2 to 6 weeks adds more cost and time. And as a battery begins to wane, it no longer
has enough charge to do its job; thus it often leaves the fence insecure. Solar-powered char-
gers have photovoltaic cells that convert sunlight into electricity to charge the battery con-
tinuously. It takes only 3 to 4 hours of sunlight per day to maintain a charge, and a fully
charged battery can last 3 weeks without a sunny day. A solar charger should be moun-
ted facing south in a place where horses can't reach it. Plug-in electric transformers (also
known as
mains
) that run off 110/120-volt household current are effective and economical.
The charger converts electricity (from a battery or a 110-volt service) into shock pulses
that are transmitted to the fence wire. Some models emit a pulsating charge, others a steady
one, and some can be switched from one to the other. Pulsating charges result in less chance
of electrocution.
Electric fencing
The gate handle connects on the side of the gate toward the charger, so the gate wire
(andfence)isdeadwhenunhooked.Thereisascreweyeonthefenceposttohangthe
fence handle when disconnected.
Useporcelaintubeinsulators,piecesofgardenhose,smallpiecesofplastic,orrubber
tubing to insulate the wire when going through building walls.
Be sure to install a proper ground.
Useelectrictofortifyorprotectyourfence,notasapermanent,electric-onlyfencefor
horses.
