When it comes to safeguarding your livestock – whether you’re dealing with predators or wayward pets – a reliable electric fence charger is an invaluable asset. By keeping your perimeter fences consistently powered, these devices provide 24/7 security for both your animals and your property, allowing you to rest assured that everything is under control.
The 7 Best Electric Fence Chargers
Our top pick for electric fence chargers is the Zareba EAC50M-Z AC-Powered Electric Fence Charger. However, we also have a range of other high-quality options available, including the Patriot PE10 Electric Fence Energizer and the Gallagher S40 Solar Electric Fence Charger for those who prefer solar-powered solutions.
Additionally, we recommend considering the Parmak MARK8 Low Impedance Electric Fence Charger or the Parmak DF-SP-LI Solar Pak 6 Electric Fence Charger for their ease of use and reliability. For a budget-friendly option, the Briidea Electric Fence Energizer is also worth considering. Finally, the Fi-Shock EA5M-FS Low Impedance Electric Fence Energizer rounds out our selection, offering excellent performance at an affordable price.
Our Top Pick for the Best Electric Fence Charger
Our top recommendation for an electric fence charger is the Zareba EAC50M-Z AC-Powered Electric Fence Charger, a powerful and reliable choice for farmers, ranchers, and homesteaders alike. This efficient charger ensures your electric fence remains energized 24/7, providing complete peace of mind and absolute safety for your livestock or pets. With its user-friendly design, you can trust that the Zareba charger will keep your perimeter secure without breaking a sweat.
Strengthen Your Defences with an Electric Fence Charger
A reliable electric fence charger is crucial for maintaining a secure and effective periphery. It’s essential to ensure your fence operates consistently throughout the day and night, as even minor power fluctuations can lead to devastating consequences such as lost livestock, escaped pets, or costly property damage.
With unique setups prevalent on most properties, this comprehensive guide aims to provide the necessary insights to help you find the ideal electric fence charger for your perimeter fence, pet enclosure, or any other application. For detailed guidance on installation and setup, refer to our in-depth article ‘How to Install an Electric Fence’.
How to Choose the Best Electric Fence Charger
Power Source
Electric fence chargers are powered by three main sources: electricity, battery power, and solar power. The type of power source depends on your specific situation. If you have access to an alternating current (AC) mains outlet, a charger powered by AC is a reliable option. These chargers, such as the Zareba Electric Fence Controller, provide a constant supply of power, allowing you to rest assured that your property is well-guarded 24/7. Simply plug it in and forget about it.
However, not everyone has access to an AC mains outlet or prefers to rely on grid electricity. For those who live in remote areas or want to adopt an off-grid lifestyle, battery-powered or solar-powered chargers are a viable solution. Battery power is a safe and cost-effective option compared to relying solely on electricity. Although it requires some maintenance – the battery needs to be charged regularly to ensure continuous operation of your fence charger – it’s a reliable choice.
Solar power, on the other hand, is an eco-friendly and affordable source of energy. This type of charger produces sufficient power for smaller fenced properties, as long as the solar panel is positioned correctly to capture and store sunlight. However, keep in mind that battery and solar-powered chargers might not be able to supply enough electricity or deliver the necessary ‘zap’ required for larger properties or to deter large predators.
Joules
When selecting an electric fence charger, the device’s overall power, measured in Joules, is crucial to consider. This factor directly impacts the effectiveness of your fencing system in deterring predators and protecting your livestock. For smaller properties, encompassing 40 acres or less, a 0.1- or 0.10-joule charger is sufficient for containing small predators and preventing harm to animals like chickens or baby goats.
The lower power output also ensures that the electric shock does not cause undue distress to your animals. In contrast, larger properties with fences spanning up to 50 or 75 miles require more powerful chargers, typically outputting 4.9 or 20 Joules. These devices are ideal for protecting larger livestock like horses, cattle, and sheep from predators such as wild dogs, wolves, or bears.
However, it’s essential to note that these high-powered chargers are not suitable for pet enclosures or chicken coops, as the intense electric current can cause significant damage to small animals’ hearts and nerves.
Fence Compatibility
To ensure optimal performance, the electric fence charger must be compatible with your specific fencing setup. Different chargers are designed for various types of fences, including poly-wire, rope, and poly-tape configurations. For instance, if you’re utilizing a galvanized chicken wire fence, it’s crucial to employ fiberglass ground rods as insulation against potential electrical shocks. This attention to detail will guarantee the effective operation of your electric fence.
Low Impedance Electric Fence Charger
One common issue that can affect a charger’s performance is its interaction with vegetation. Trees, shrubs, overgrown weeds, and wet vegetation can all potentially draw energy from the charger, reducing its effectiveness. However, some chargers are designed to be more resilient in these situations. Specifically, low-impedance chargers tend to maintain their power output even when faced with a significant amount of wet weeds or thick brush growing against the fence.
Color-coded Terminals and Handy Features
The electric fence charger’s color-coded controls, featuring red and green dials or red and black dials, simplify setup and adjustment. Some models come equipped with an LCD indicator light that pulses to indicate operation or a bright display screen showing voltage levels, such as the Parmak MARK8 Electric Fence Charger. Additionally, a battery indicator provides valuable insight into the charger’s power levels, alerting you when the battery is running low.
7 Best Electric Fence Chargers – Reviews
Zareba EAC50M-Z AC-Powered Electric Fence Charger
The Zareba EAC50M-Z AC-Powered Electric Fence Charger is a reliable and versatile solution for keeping your animals safe within their enclosure. This 2-joule charger, powered by AC electricity, delivers a mild yet powerful shock that effectively deters predators like wolves and bears from entering the area. Its low-impedance design allows it to energize a perimeter fence up to 50 miles in length, even in heavily weeded conditions.
The charger is built with rugged, weather-resistant components that can withstand harsh outdoor environments. A ‘Fence OK’ pulse indicator light and clearly labeled color-coded controls provide easy monitoring of the system. Additionally, Zareba offers a comprehensive three-year warranty plan that covers damage caused by lightning. The electric fence charger comes in three range options: 25-miles, 75-miles, and 100-miles, making it suitable for various farm or ranch settings.
While it may be an investment, this AC-powered charger provides excellent value for money and is ideal for keeping pigs, goats, cattle, or horses safely enclosed. On the downside, the device may not work well with chicken wire unless insulated grounds rods are used.
Patriot PE10 Electric Fence Energizer
The Patriot PE10 Electric Fence Energizer is a reliable choice for small-scale farming or homesteading, capable of covering up to 40 acres. Its efficient 0.30-joule AC-powered design makes it well-suited for containing horses and other small animals, such as pets, chickens, hogs, or goats within their enclosures, while keeping out predators.
The PE10’s low impedance feature ensures a stable current delivery of up to 5000 volts across a 10-mile poly rope, poly tape, steel, or aluminum fence, even in areas with heavy foliage or thick undergrowth. This charger is particularly ideal for those new to electric fencing, featuring large color-coded controls and an LED indicator that pulses when the device is functioning properly. PATRIOT backs their product with a comprehensive 1-year full replacement warranty.
In terms of pros, this energizer boasts high-quality performance, excellent value, and a reasonable price point. Its features include keeping out small predators, containing pets and horses, and being suitable for use as a dog enclosure. The device’s low impedance design also allows it to function effectively in heavy foliage or thick undergrowth conditions. Additionally, the no-load voltage is 5000 volts, making it easy to use and maintain.
One of its notable features is its large color-coded controls and LED indicator, ensuring smooth operation. On the other hand, one may consider that this energizer is not suitable for larger properties or bigger animals. For those interested in purchasing, Amazon offers pricing information.
Gallagher S40 Solar Electric Fence Charger
The Gallagher S40 Solar Electric Fence Charger is a reliable and portable solution for temporary grazing applications in remote areas or smaller pastures without access to mains power. Made in the US, this charger can energize a 25-mile single wire fence system or a 5-mile multi-line perimeter fence on 30-80 acres of land, providing sufficient power to manage animals and deter small predators like deer.
The device features a built-in solar panel, a powerful 6-volt battery, and a handle for easy portability. Its rugged design includes drop-resistance, water-resistance, and lightning protection, making it suitable for rough conditions. With 360-degree mounting capability, the charger can be installed on a post for optimal sun exposure.
The device offers multiple power modes, including pulse rates that can be adjusted for day and night, as well as a battery-saving technology that maintains power for up to three weeks without sunlight. Additional features include an on/off dial, battery power indicator, and large on/off dial. Gallagher offers a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty on this product.
Parmak MARK8 Low Impedance Electric Fence Charger
The Parmak MARK8 Low Impedance Electric Fence Charger is a reliable solution for livestock containment or predator control on medium to large-sized properties. Made in the US, this AC-powered electric fence charger features advanced computer-controlled circuitry that ensures efficient performance over time. Its low-impedance design provides consistent power delivery even through wet vegetation or thick brush. With a capacity of 4.
9 joules, it’s suitable for use with single or multi-wire high tensile electric fences up to 30 miles long. The digital meter on the LCD screen displays voltage in bright red digits, while color-coded controls make it easy to monitor and adjust settings. The charger also boasts smart safety features like fuse protection, a built-in lightning arrester, and UL-listed certification in both the US and Canada. Parmak offers a comprehensive 2-year warranty that covers damage caused by lightning.
This unit’s advantages include its high quality, good value for money, and ability to charge up to 30 miles of fence on single or multi-wire high tensile systems. While it may not be ideal for extreme winter conditions due to the short power cord, it provides reliable performance in various environments.
Parmak DF-SP-LI Solar Pak 6 Electric Fence Charger
The Parmak DF-SP-LI Solar Pak 6 Electric Fence Charger is an intelligent and durable solution for protecting small to medium-sized properties. Its sturdy weatherproof housing, made in the US, ensures reliable operation even in outdoor environments. The charger’s small but powerful solar panel constantly charges a 6-volt battery, making it perfect for energizing up to 25 miles of barbed wire or poly tape fence.
As the solar panel is positioned on top of the charger, it can absorb more sunlight and provide long-lasting power. This charger delivers a powerful shock that deters wild dogs and other predators from attacking livestock, such as cattle, horses, or pigs. Its low impedance design allows for effective shocking even through wet weeds or thick brush. The built-in performance meter ensures optimal operation at all times.
With its simple on/off switch and color-coded controls, this charger is easy to use. Additionally, it comes with a 1-year warranty that includes damage from lightning, and the special steel housing has a lifetime replacement warranty against rust. While it may be more expensive than some options, the Parmak DF-SP-LI Solar Pak 6 Electric Fence Charger offers great value for its quality and performance.
Briidea Electric Fence Energizer
The Briidea Electric Fence Energizer ensures your electric fence remains fully charged around-the-clock, making it an ideal solution for small properties up to 8 acres, chicken coops, or pet enclosures. This 0.1-joule AC-powered charger delivers a powerful 5000-volt output capable of deterring wild animals such as bears, raccoons, and skunks from domestic animals like chickens, goats, and pets.
The Briidea fence energizer features a sturdy design, but it requires placement within a sheltered waterproof enclosure to protect it from rain. The unit can be used with various types of fences, including steel wire, aluminum wire, poly-wire, and poly-tape fences. Installation and use are straightforward, thanks to the 2 color-coded screw-on terminal knobs that facilitate connection of ground rods and fence wires.
A pulse indicator light ensures you’re aware when the unit is functioning properly. For added peace of mind, the UL-listed Briidea energizer has undergone rigorous testing for safety and features a fire prevention design. Furthermore, the manufacturer offers a 30-day refund policy on the electric fence energizer. Key advantages include great quality, excellent value for money, and an affordable price point.
The device’s ability to deliver a powerful zap, combined with its sturdy housing and ease of installation, make it an attractive solution for small-scale farmers and pet owners alike.
Fi-Shock EA5M-FS Low Impedance Electric Fence Energizer
Our Top Pick for the Best Electric Fence Charger
When it comes to finding the best electric fence charger for our farms, ranches, or homesteads, one product stands out from the rest: the Zareba EAC50M-Z AC-Powered Electric Fence Charger. We highly recommend this reliable and efficient charger for anyone looking to ensure the safety of their livestock or pets. With its powerful capabilities, you can trust that your electric fence will remain energized day and night, providing complete peace of mind.
The ease of use, combined with its dependable performance, make it an ideal choice for those who value simplicity and effectiveness. If you’re interested in learning more about this top-notch charger, be sure to check out the current price on Amazon.
