The Best Solar Fence Chargers for 2023

Using the best solar fence charger, fencer or energizer, you’ll save energy and money in the end. For a one-time payment, you’ll get free energy forever. The fencer is sun-powered, so it doesn’t require electricity, saving you from paying higher on your energy bills.

This product can protect and secure your livestock and pets within several miles of coverage depending on the model you have chosen.

It can help you achieve peace of mind that they’ll be safe and won’t be lost. For this reason, some of these products are also suitable for temporary grazing applications.

To help you select the right one for your needs, keep reading in the following section.

Top-Rated Solar Fence Charger Reviews

1. Gallagher S12 Solar Electric Fence Charger

Gallagher is one of the most trusted names in solar electric fence chargers. Its S12 Solar Charger for Electric Fence is a decent system for energizing a perimeter barrier for a small farm application. Equipped with an IPX4 construction, the unit can withstand water splashes, making it even more suitable for outdoor use.

Although this solar fence charger only has 0.12 stored Joules, it is sufficient for 4 miles of a continuous electrical fence. People with a 1.5-acre property should find this product enough to meet their perimeter security requirements.

This solar fence charger has an internal voltage of six volts and a distance rating of 0.6 miles. The overall output voltage of 9000V is enough to “harm” cattle, pigs, and horses and deter them from going near the electric fence again.

People who need to control sheep, goats, bulls, and wild animals might want the Gallagher S100 12V fence charger instead. The product can electrify a 30-mile fence or cover 100 acres and delivers 1.0 Joule of electrical power.

I adore this solar charger’s thoughtful design. The photovoltaic cell technology is impressive, while the LiFePO4 rechargeable battery offers longevity no dry cell can match.

2. Parmak DF-SP-LI

Are you looking for the most trusted solar powered electric fence charger? If so, you might want to check out the Parmak DF-SP-LI. It is loaded with the top features and functions that make it a decent pick in the solar fence charger category.

Parmak is a reliable brand that continues to deliver quality solar fence chargers. Through the years, it has been a trusted name for livestock and poultry owners that want to contain these animals especially in remote locations without an access to AC power.

One of the things that make this a top choice is its built-in performance meter that is not in other products in the same category. For it, you will be able to monitor the performance of your fence charger.

Solar electric fence reviews also revealed that many customers liked this model because it worked effectively in containing their livestock and pets. They liked that it’s also easy to install. That’s the same remarks from other customers that have been using this fence charger.

This item can also shock through any wet brush or weeds. It is also ideal for a small to a medium-sized pasture.

It is also made of durable materials, making it ideal for outdoor use and applications. If you want a fence charger that can help you contain animals and want to look forward to long-term use, you might want to check out the Parmak DF-SP-LI. It works well for remote locations where you want to contain livestock like chickens, too.

3. Zareba ESP5M-Z

When shopping around for a solar fence charger for goats, for instance, make sure that you check on the important features, including efficiency and effectiveness in performing it job. Zareba is a great choice for the following reasons.

Zareba is a top choice for a solar electric fence charger that will give anything or anyone that touches it quite a shock.

If you’re looking for a fence charger for horse and cattle applications, you might want to take a look at this product that is specially made for these purposes.

Speaking of applications, the Zareba ESP5M-Z is also great for use for small pets and animals that you have. You might want to take a look at it if you’re finding a fence charger for this application, too.

In addition, you don’t need to by a battery when you buy this item. It comes with a six-volt battery in every purchase. You just have to recharge this with the solar panel included so that it can be used later.

I would like to mention that it has an integrated mound that can fit Y-posts and flat surfaces, round and wood posts and T-posts. With that said, you could have peace of mind that it is versatile to use. However, I would like to note that it’s recommended for aluminum and steel wire.

4. Parmak Magnum Solar-Pak MAG12-SP

The low impedance of the fence charger gives the way for more power that you need in o containing the animals and preventing any prey from getting near the fence.

The Parmak fence charger is also more powerful than other items are because of its longer mile range reaching up to 30 miles. You might want to get if you have a bigger area to cover.

It is also power saving because it makes use of the sun’s energy to charge it by day, and then later the battery that comes with it will power the fencer in the evening. This 12 Solar-Pak model can also eliminate recharging, so it is chosen by those who want to save money and time.

This model is one of the most powerful around with a rating of 3.1+ joules. It has the ability of powering a fence of up to 30 miles. It might be something to appreciate if you have a larger fence.

Another thing that I would like to note is that this one is made from waterproof materials, making it ideal for outdoor use. With it, you don’t need to worry about the fence charger being damaged due to changing weather conditions.

The portable outdoor model is also easy to install and bring anywhere. You can easily set it up in your fence or move it to another side without any hassles.

If you have a large pasture, you might want to take a look at this fence charger that can work effectively for it. Installing this charger, you can secure your fence better. So if you want to take advantage of this benefit, you might want to check out the Parmak Magnum Solar-Pak.

It can offer the maximum shock and has a longer life. This product doesn’t also have an operating cost because it is sun-powered. It also comes with a 2-year warranty covering lighting caused damage and one year for its 12V battery.

5. Zareba ESP10M-Z

Zareba is a trusted name in the category for being reliable and efficient. For one, the six-volt model is one of those that are chosen for pastures and containing animals and pets.

I would like to note that products as it is also one of the top-tier choices for those who want to make use of clean energy products. This item can operate for up to two weeks even without sunlight.

In addition, this item can offer fast installation, making it an ideal choice to those who don’t want a headache in the process. You can expect of its fast installation on round wood posts, T posts, flat surfaces and buildings. That is thanks to the integrated mount included in every purchase.

In terms of convenience features, you will also appreciate that this one comes with an indicator light that can flash when there is energy on the fence. Also, this 10-mile solar fence charger is energy saving. It does not require traditional energy sources but only that from the sun.

Choosing it, you will not just contain animals but also ensure that you’ll save money in the process. With it, you can energize your fence but using energy from the sun. You can also use it in remote areas of your property if you want to power the fence.

6. Zareba ESP2M-Z

The Zareba ESP2M-Z solar low impedance electric fence charger is a well-made product, efficient in keeping away pests and small animals out of your yard or garden. I recommend that you try this product out for the following reasons.

For one, I like the Zareba solar electric fence charger because it is eco-friendly and energy-efficient. This fence charger helps in animal control using the energy generated from the sun. This is a good and convenient product for those without access to the main electric grid. It also cuts down your electric consumption.

The Zareba solar electric fence charger can power up to 2 miles of fence. Not only that, but this fence charger can also be used in different fence types such as aluminum, steel, poly wire and poly tape. I also like that it can be easily mounted to most surfaces. Its built-in mound fits T-posts, Y-posts, round posts and flat surfaces.

Another thing that I like about the Zareba solar electric fence charger is its advanced technology components. Its low impedance technology makes it ideal for larger areas and weed loads that can otherwise drain the battery faster. Its intuitive technology also effectively resists shorts if ever the fence comes in contact with weeds.

The durability of the Zareba solar electric fence charger is also guaranteed. This product is sure to last you for a long time. It is made in the USA, durable and has a damage-resistant construction that can withstand outdoor conditions.

I also like the Zareba solar electric fence charger because it is easy to use and features easy portability. The package includes a 4-volt battery; the product is complete with a built-in handle and features an OK light for you to know that the charger is working.

If you have issues with your Zareba solar electric fence charger, their 1-year limited warranty has got you covered. What’s even better is that its warranty includes damage caused by lightning. Their good customer service and tech assistance can also help you with any concerns you have with your fence charger.

7. Silver Streak solar-powered fence charger

You might have bumped into this item while reading solar electric fence charger reviews. The Silver Streak solar-powered fence charger is one of the best fence chargers in the market. If you are serious in keeping out wildlife and pests from your farm or garden or protect your pets and livestock, I recommend this product for you to try.

One of the main reasons why I like and recommend the Silver Streak fence charger is because it is solar-powered. This item can power up your fences using the energy from the sun. It is safe for the environment and also ideal for places without an electric power source.

This solar fence charger is powerful and puts out 2 joules of charge. This does a good job of control. It can also cover a large area and charge up to 100 acres of fence. This is ideal for mounting on t-posts. It is also designed to suit steel or aluminum wire, poly wire or poly rope. This fence charger is also easy to set-up and use, no special tools required.

A unique thing about the Silver Streak solar-powered fence charger is that its battery is not located inside the unit. You can use and clip any 12-volt battery. This works best with deep cycle batteries. It also has an indicator light that flashes to show that the charger is working.

I also recommend the Silver Streak solar-powered fence charger if you are meaning to use it in large areas. This fence charger has a low impedance design that allows for more power to go through long lengths of fence and shock through vegetation contacting the wire.

Another thing that I like about the Silver Streak solar fence charger is that it includes a free lightning diverter and two packs of lightning fuses in the package. This lightning diverter drives lightning straight to the ground to protect your electric fence and charger from damage. This fence charger is durable to last for a long time.

In case of damage or any issues you have with this product, the 2-year warranty it offers has got you covered.

8. Gallagher S10 solar fence energizer

The Gallagher solar fence charger is another item not to miss if looking for a powerful and efficient product that delivers. You might want to consider it on your list if you want an efficient fence energizer that can contain your pets or animals.

It is a portable fence power supply that can cover up to three miles just enough for a small fence. It can cover 15 acres of a single wire fence without vegetation. Take note that this item is not just for animal protection but also for garden protection.

In addition, you might want to check it out if you are looking for a temporary grazing application as well. Without even saying, the Gallagher S10 is a versatile choice that you can take advantage of for many applications.

Another thing to like about the fence charger is it is durable and tough for outdoor applications. It is drop resistant and has a waterproof casing. This item also has an integrated lighting protection. All these features promote the good use of this product. Choosing it, you can look forward to long-term use.

This sun-powered fencer is also with a 360-degree mounting on steel posts to allow for is correct positioning towards the sunlight. In addition, this item has an integrated lightning diverter, which might not be available in other products.

9. Fi-Shock ESP2M-FS

Fi-Shock is another name that stands out when looking for an ideal solar fence charger like a good Gallagher solar fence charger.

This is a 2-Mile Solar-Powered Electric Fence Charger that works well under the ideal conditions. It can offer low impedance to ensure of a maximum power while also allowing for less drain on the battery.

I would like to note that its solar panel is featuring a compartmental design that can promote damage resistance. This product is also with safety features. It can resist shorts when your fence comes in contact with weeds.

If you want to protect small animals like rabbits, chickens and pets, you might want to consider this fence charger. It can contain these animals so that they won’t be lost.

You can also rely on its versatility. This fence charger can be used for fences like poly wire, steel, aluminum and poly tape. Having this said, you could have peace of mind for being able to use them for many types of fences.

In addition, you will be able to know if the charger is working if it is flashing FENCE OK. It also comes with a four-volt battery.

More so, this fence charger comes with a one-year limited warranty, including for damage because of lightning. This item also offers a 0.4-joule output, allowing it to deliver an intermittent DC output.

10. Premier Solar IntelliShock Fence Energizer

An electric fence energizer that is solar powered is used for keeping goats, sheep, cattle, poultry, and horses. It can protect them against stray dogs, foxes, bears, and coyotes. The unit includes a solar panel to charge the battery the entire day.

Fence chargers can reduce demand for energy during high fence voltage of because of fewer weeds getting in contact to the fence.

This happens in winter and fall for most fences. As a result, the Premier Solar IntelliShock unit’s battery remains charged through the days of winter and autumn when there is low sunlight.

The portable electric fence energizer is a 0.60-joule unit that comes ready to power netting or electric fences. The included step-in stake is able to support the fencer.

For seasonal light availability, you can easily adjust the solar panel. It has a battery with a large capacity that is made to increase the life of the panel during long periods of low sunlight like autumn and winter.

This solar fence charger comes with all you need to get started including a lead acid battery and a solar panel. It also includes a polycarbonate case, a galvanized ground rod, a ground rod and a support stand.

If this product is stored and used properly, its battery will last up to four years. This item can also power up to five netting rolls based on the conditions and soil vegetation.

You can adjust the panel easily for seasonal light availability; this is very useful especially during winter and autumn. You can use the step-in ground stake to support the energizer.

The battery of the product has a massive capacity that can increase the life of the product during low sunlight periods. It has highly visible on and off light with a low battery indicator.

The energizer may be operated even without it being plugged into an 110V power source or a battery.

The product comes with a two-year warranty on energizer and solar panel and it covers defective parts, lightning, and workmanship.

11. Premier 1 Solar Intellishock Fence Energizer Kit

A Fence Energizer Kit makes the lives of farmers or livestock owners easier than ever. If you are looking for a full set, don’t gamble on other brands but make a wise choice to Premier 1 Solar Intellishock Fence Energizer Kit.

The Premier 1 Solar Intellishock Fence Energizer Kit is quite promising as it can sustain power for every electric fence.

A reliable energizer like this 0.60-joule solar energizer is important for livestock business because it guards sheltered animals such as goats, horses, sheep and cows from lurking outside the barn. The same way, an electric fence that functions the whole night discourage pest from attacking the farm animals.

Another important component of an energizer kit is a solar panel. I am fan of solar powered devices like this one because it is really a smart choice. Imagine the big amount it can save you from free electricity and less maintenance performance.

Aside from that, it produces zero pollution as it uses pure and clean energy. While it is serving a very good purpose for the livestock fence, the environment is also smiling back at you.

Accompanied by the solar panel is a cell that store and supply power to the device. Good thing that this set has an efficient 12V/12AH sealed lead acid battery. If properly recharged and positioned, you can expect it to reach from 3 to 4 years of life span.

Unlike other premium brands whereas their batteries require frequent replacement, this one can save you from buying expensive batteries. What I find more interesting is that said lead acid battery can energize a wide roll of electric netting for at least 3 to 5 rolls.

What I adore also about Premier 1 Solar Intellishock Fence Energizer is its ability to lower the intensity of its voltage to protect the animals inside the fences.

Premier 1 also offers fantastic warranty deal. For their energizer and solar panel covers lightning, enjoy a two year warranty in case you got them malfunctioning. On the other hand, they guarantee a 30-day warranty for the included batteries.

12. Gallagher North America S100

Having an electric fence is a big help in raising farm animals. And an electric fence need a dependable charger like this one made by Gallagher. Its North America S100 is something that can help every farmer succeeds on his or her business. Here are its pros and cons.

Based on the specification of Gallagher North America S100, it will keep the livestock fence energize to produce low but tickling current shock when touched. This technique is very effective in two ways.

First, a fence that is fully powered by a charger like Gallagher North America S100 tamed the domestic and farm animals such as goats, pigs, sheep, cattle and sheep.

On the other hand, this will draw away unwanted pests to secure the safety of your livestock. A good watch to the farm animals and strict protection against the wild ones may result to a more profitable business.

For a single purchase of Gallagher North America S100 solar powered fence charger for cattle, it can already power up a fence that surrounds as wide as 100 acres or 30 miles. I think that’s economical as this single wire fencing can cover a large area at the farm. You may add more if you intend to use it for a bigger space.

Another special quality of this solar fence charger is its low impedance power at 1.0 joule. Hence, you can be sure that your sheltered animals are still safe even they draw nearer the fence.

I liked also that this small but terrible fence charger is handy, easy to install and moveable from one place to another. It is really suitable even on small and big farms located on remote areas.

What is even more interesting is it does not use wiring connections and electricity from an outlet. Gallagher North America S100 has a built-in Solar Panel and 12V battery.

Its solar panel receives sunlight that it generates into power and stores it inside the ready fit in battery. If fully charge, it can work for about 3 weeks even with poor sunlight.

Since it is a solar powered device, it can save every farm owners a big amount from massive use of electricity just to energize their fence. Imagine how cost-effective it is because you get free and long lasting service and protection for your animals.

It is also made waterproof so no hassle to make a roof for it and no worries to leave it in an open space.

13. Patriot Solarguard 155 Fence Energizer

Beginners and even backyard livestock owners that raise animals on a small range area deserves to experience a high quality fence energizer. One good example of an efficient fence charger is made by Patriot Solarguard. Its best and worst features are determined as follows.

Whether users’ intention is to raise animals for hobbies or business, Patriot Solarguard 155 Fence Energizer is here to attain success. Once this energizer enlivens the entire livestock fence, user can expect ultimate protection for the animals that lives inside the allotted space.

I immediately noticed that the Patriot Solarguard 155 Fence Energizer is designed for smaller farms. The specified coverage of it is up to 2km or equivalent to 1.2 miles. So if you are looking for an average-range fence charger, this item is the one for you.

It is also something you can easily transport especially if your farm is located on remote areas. The overall structure of it is sleek and light weighted with its weight of 7 pounds only. Therefore, installation is hassle-free. User may place it on either T-post or wood posts whichever is suitable for the specific location.

According to the product description, Patriot Solarguard 155 Fence Energizer can produce 0.15-joule output at 2,000 ohms. Meanwhile, the voltage output that this device can supply is 5.4kV. Such energy yield can power up an electric fence system making it excellent to guard dogs, horses, goats and other farm animals.

I think one of the top selling points of Patriot Solarguard 155 Fence Energizer is the solar panel and battery incorporated in it. No one can say no to the advantages that a solar powered device can bring to one’s life. Number one reason why patronize this item is it can save you money from repeatedly paying electricity bills.

Built-in monocrystalline solar panel makes the magic. As long as it is receiving direct sunlight, keeping the electric fence system alive is possible. Further, said solar panel is well built as it is protected by aluminum.

Like other solar powered devices, the monocrystalline solar panel of Patriot Solarguard 155 is accompanied with a smart battery management system. These two are always twins and makes a really good tandem.

The solar panel generates energy and stores it to the battery to prolong the life of the electric fence. When fully charged, this charger can sustain its performance for 21 days.

In case you encounter any concerns upon purchase of this item, Patriot Solarguard set a 2-year warranty for this item.

What Is A Solar Fence Charger And Who This Is For

Fence charger provides the electric current that flows through and runs down the fence wire. Also called as fencers or energizers, they are mainly used to keep wild animals from entering your property.

Solar fence chargers work very much like the normal electric ones. However, they give you the advantage of going solar. With this, you will be afforded the protection and the other benefits of the fence charger despite black outs and power failures.

A solar fence charger gives you a cost-efficient and economical way of protecting your property. The electric current gives quite a shock when touched. As such, you can effectively keep animals from going and from going out.

Because of this, they are quite popular among the farming community. With this, they can control their livestock as well as protect them from wild animals like wolves, foxes and wild dogs.

Moreover, they are also popular among homeowners who seek to improve and enhance their home’s security. Some models even offer extra safety and security features.

Since they are solar, solar fence chargers are also quite useful especially if you live quite far from the electrical grid. With this, you would not have to spend much installing new lines and wires.

How Does It Work

Solar fence chargers are beneficial for those who would like to enhance the security in their home or those who live near forests. It is also useful for those who own and raise different livestock.

This is because the fence charger gives an electrical pulse when touched. A0s such, when an animal or person touches it, they can feel a short burst of pain. However, this shock does not cause any physical damages.

Overtime, the solar fence charger acts a strong and effective psychological barrier. Remembering the pain, intruders or animals will avoid coming into contact with the fence to avoid the shock.

The solar fence charger has 5 main components.

The first component is the solar panel that is responsible for the collection and the conversion of solar power into electricity.

The second part is the regulator. This is connected after the solar panel and is likewise important since it regulates the amount of electricity flowing into your battery. With this, you can prevent the battery from over- and undercharging.

Next is the battery and it is responsible for storing the energy converted. How long the solar fence charger will last depends on the battery’s charge.

The fourth part is the energizer. This takes power from the battery and distributes it to the whole fence. The size of this depends on the area you want to fence.

Last is the grounding. For a solar fence charger to work properly, it must be stable and grounded properly. Moreover, this is also done for the user’s safety.

What Are The Different Types Of Solar Fence Chargers

A solar fence charger is quite useful especially if you have livestock and for those who want to enhance their home’s security and safety.

This is because the solar fence charger generates a shock that can be used to keep animals in, as in livestock or used to keep people or wild animals out.

There are three main types of solar fence chargers in the market.

The first type is the continuous output fence charger, such as a solar fence charger for horses. As in its name, this type provides a steady and continuous charge on the wires.

This is different from the electrical pulses given by the other solar fence charger types. In other words, the wires are constantly charged all the time.

Because of this, they are not quite safe to use, especially if you have children or pets. The charge may cause quite some damages. Aside from that, they also consume a lot more power compared to the other two types.

The continuous output fence charger is typically recommended for smaller areas or dairy stalls. However, these types of fence chargers are quite rare these days.

The second type is the solid-state fence charger that is what most people recommended for livestock protection.

This is because this type only delivers a medium voltage, so it is not quite as damaging like the first type. They also only deliver such shocks in medium durations. As such, it would not eat and consume as much power.

Because of the low shocking power, the solid-state fence charger is best for taming and keeping in smaller animals and those with very little fur.

The solid-state fence charger is also recommended to use if you have steel or aluminum enclosure. With this, the charge is more effective.

However, weeds can impair and affect the performance of these chargers. Thus, you need to ensure that the area is clear of weeds and other vegetation.

The third type is the low impedance technology charger that is one of the newer models. Low impedance chargers basically solve the dilemma of solid-state fence chargers.

Here, there is lower resistance in the charger that results into more power flowing through the fence. As such, it delivers shocks of higher voltages.

They are best used for bigger livestock such as cattle and horses. You can also use them for furry animals.

Low impedance chargers also boast the latest technology. Normally, weeds and vegetation affect the performance of most solar fence chargers. In the worst-case scenario, weeds will ground the fence and cause a power shortage.

However, lower impedance chargers can still provide power despite the number of weeds blocking their way because they can generate more power. As such, they provide a solution for lands heavy with weeds as well as for longer fences.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Using A Solar Fence Charger

Knowing the advantages and disadvantages of a product is essential for a buyer as it helps him/her make the final choice. With this, the buyer can determine if the product can suit and satisfy most of their needs.

Like all products, the solar fence charger has its own fair share of pros and cons. This section will list them all accordingly.

Advantages

Eco-friendly

If you are looking for an Earth-friendly solution, then the solar fence chargers are for you. Unlike electric fence chargers, these types rely on solar energy to operate. As we all know, solar energy is a clean and renewable source of energy.

Using these can help lessen the negative impact in the environment. You also get to reduce or minimize your carbon footprint.

Economical

Electronic fence chargers rely on electricity to deliver the current needed. As such, it might need to consume a substantial amount to perform well.

However, this might make quite an impact on your household expenses, especially on electricity bills.

The solar fence chargers provide an economical and cost-efficient solution. Solar fence chargers work the same way as electrical ones with the only difference of relying on solar power.

As such, you can get to reduce or minimize relying on electricity to power up your fence charger. With this, you can definitely save up on electrical bills and other operational costs.

Moreover, solar fence chargers also give you the freedom of going off the grid. Since you do not need to rely on electricity, you would not have to worry about using the device for long periods of time.

Convenient

Solar fence chargers offer a convenient way of protecting and shepherding your livestock. Due to the electrical pulses, generated, wild animals like wolves, foxes and wild dogs will be discouraged from getting in your livestock.

On the other hand, your livestock will also be barred from going out as they please.

Security Measures

Solar fence chargers like a solar electric fence charger for cattle can also be used to ward off intruders and other unwanted guests into your house. Once they touch the fence, the solar fence charger will transmit an electrical pulse that will certainly shock and discourage intruders from entering your property ever again.

Great for big and remote properties

Solar fence chargers are beneficial for those who have big properties and for those who live in remote areas.

Big properties can benefit since these devices offer an efficient but cheap way to secure your home and/or protect your livestock from intruders.

People who live in remote areas will also appreciate the solar fence charger since these areas have limited access to electricity. As such, in times of power failures, the solar fence chargers will still work.

Moreover, they also eliminate the hassle of installing additional power lines or wires just so you can connect the fence charger to the grid.

Disadvantages

Reliant on the sun

Solar fence chargers rely heavily on the sun’s energy. As such, it may not perform as well or as long in cloudy days, or during winter season.

How We Picked And Tested

Solar fence chargers offer an efficient but cheap way to keep wild animals and intruders alike at bay. Since they run on solar power, they are also helpful to the environment.

Aside from those mentioned, solar fence chargers offer numerous other advantages. In fact, they have become quite popular among homeowners, farm owners or those who own and raise livestock. In short, they are a great investment.

However, there are currently a lot of types and models available in the market. This makes purchasing one a bit difficult.

Of course, the perfect solar fence charger depends on how well the model can satisfy your needs.

But to get you started, here are a few essential factors to help you make the right choice.

Range Capacity

Solar fence chargers are effective since they provide some sort of an electric barrier around your property or enclosure. As such, purchasing one with an incorrect range capacity will result into the underperformance of the product.

This factor is dependent on the length of your fence and the number of wires it has. So, before you buy one, check how long your fence is and how many wires it has.

Voltage Requirements

Aside from the range, one important feature of the solar fence charger is the voltage.

Solar fence chargers are effective since they transmit powerful but safe electrical pulses on unwanted animals or intruders. These pulses depend on the product’s voltage. Voltage depends on the type of animal you want to keep out.

Big animals such as deer, goats, and predators need about 4,000 to 5,000 volts, depending on the fence type and design.

For bulls or bison, the product should produce about 3,000 to 4,000 volts.

If you have medium-sized animals like cows, horses and pigs, a solar fence charger generating 2,000 to 3,000 volts is the most suitable.

Nuisance or pests such as rabbits, wolves, foxes and wild dogs, a 1,000 to 2,000 voltage are enough.

On the other hand, if you only have pets or poultry, then a voltage of 500 to 1,000 volts is more than enough.

Type of Solar Fence Charger

Of course, you also need to take note of the different type of solar fence chargers available in the market. Currently, there are three, namely the continuous output fence charger, the solid-state fence charger and the low impedance solar charger.

Different types offer and cater to different needs. for example, continuous output fence chargers are great for small spaces or for dairy stalls.

The second type is great for taming small to medium animals with little to no fur. The third type is top-tier for areas with dense and heavy vegetation and weeds.

However, it is recommended that you get the third type. it is not only because it offers the latest technology, but it is also the most efficient out of the three.

While it is best to keep your fence clear from weeds and other plants, the low impedance model will still work even in times you don’t.

Quality

Look for models with U/L or CSA listing. This ensures that the product has been thoroughly tested by the appropriate authorities and is completely safe to use.

Aside from that, make sure that the product is made out of high-quality materials and is built to withstand harsh weathers. The housing on your charger should be made out of steel and protected against corrosion and other elements.

Extra Features

Some solar fence chargers come with extra features such as performance meters and the like. These features are discretionary and depend really on your personal preference.

Warranty

A good solar fence charger is also one with a good warranty. Find a product that offers 1 to 3 years warranty and one that covers repairs and replacements.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many Joules should a fence charger have?

The University of Missouri Forage Research Center recommends distributing one Joule every 0.5 to 6 miles. The exact figure will vary based on factors such as perimeter material and whether it’s a single or multiple strands. The more strands the fence has, the higher the Joules/mile rating should be.

Most people use the highest Joule solar fence charger they could buy to deter their livestock from going outside the perimeter and prevent wild animals from encroaching the property. That said, one Joule per mile is usually more than enough.

Many chargers have a Joule rating between 0.10 and 1.0. For example, the Patriot fence charger PE2 only has 0.10 Joules, while the Patriot PE10 has 0.30 Joules. Note that these products connect to a 110-volt circuit, not a 12 volt battery. In contrast, the Gallagher S12 has 0.12 Joules but can cover 4 miles of fence using sunlight to power it.

Can you power other solar devices using your solar fence charger?

No, you cannot do so. A solar energizer for electric fence has electrical output parameters that might be incompatible with other solar-powered appliances, such as lights and heaters. The unit delivers a high-voltage current to damage to shock the target animals, which might not be suitable for powering other electrical devices.

Another reason a solar fence charger is incompatible with other solar devices is its modest amperage rating. For instance, a 7,000-volt solar fence charger might only deliver 150 milliamps. Other solar devices might need more amps.

It is always sound advice to use a charger designed specifically for your solar device to avoid potential problems.

How long does it take to charge a solar fence charger?

A solar fence charger’s charging time depends on the brand, photovoltaic cell technology, and environmental conditions. For example, the Zareba 10 Mile Solar Low Impedance Fence Charger requires 48 hours to charge fully. Other brands might require three to four days to charge.

Even the most powerful and strongest electric fence charger would require intense direct sunlight for extended hours to collect as many photons as possible to convert into DC electricity. Shading, overcast skies, and shorter daytimes can reduce light exposure, decreasing electricity production and extending the charging time.

The solar fence charger’s photovoltaic cell technology can also affect a device’s charging time. Monocrystalline panels can convert 15-20% of sunlight to DC energy. Newer monocrystalline technology can even reach up to 22.8% solar efficiency. Meanwhile, polycrystalline PV cells only max at 16%.

The higher the solar panel’s efficiency rating, the faster the charging time, given optimal environmental conditions.

How long do solar fence chargers last?

A solar fence charger’s longevity depends on the brand. For example, Zareba’s solar fence energizers for garden and property perimeters can last two weeks when fully charged and without sunlight. With systems like the Zareba’s, there’s no need to worry about power interruptions, overcast skies, and stormy weather.

As for the chargers’ longevity, it’ll be wise to read the product’s technical specifications. You might want to check the accompanying warranty to know the device’s operating lifespan. Although relative, product warranties provide a rough estimate of how long the solar fence charger will last with normal use.

In general, you can expect these devices to last 3-4 years. If they fail, you might want to change the batteries first to see if they can still power up. Only get a new one if your old charger fails to work even with the batteries replaced.

What are the most trusted solar fence charger brands?        

While you can find many brands on the market when finding fence chargers, you might not be able to get a top quality one without considering a reliable brand.

Some of the most popular in the category include the Zareba, Parmak, Fi-Shock, Gallagher and Silver Streak, to name some. Check them out when choosing a fence energizer.

What is the warranty?

The warranty isn’t the same for all fencers. It varies from one manufacturer to another. It will pay off to find an energizer that comes with a good warranty.

How to install and use?

The installation is not complicated. In fact, many of them are also portable. You can check the specific user manual based on the product you bought. Just read and follow the instructions closely.

How to care & clean?      

From time to time, you might just have to wipe off the solar panel to ensure that it works at its 100 percent. But for any specific instructions on care and maintenance, you might want to refer to the manual, too.

Where to buy?

You can buy these items in stores selling clean energy products. But for the top-tier deals, you might want to get yours from Amazon. It is the largest marketplace for solar energy products. Here, you will find affordable and genuine fencers from the manufacturers themselves.

How to build a solar powered electric fence?

If you would like to build a solar fence charger, you might want to check out a complete guide I found comprehensive and complete here. It details all that you have to know for this DIY project.

Conclusion

Choosing among the available items in the best solar fence charger category, you might find it overwhelming without an idea of the top picks to compare.

But if you would know what you’re buying including their special qualities, you’d be able to decide better for satisfaction. It will also help if you have an idea on the pros and cons of each product.

For this reason, compare and study your options well by reading these reviews and considering certain factors, such as type of charger, quality, warranty and range capacity, to name some as those featured earlier to make the right choice. Buy a sun-powered fence energizer today!

Justin Tucker

As a professional in the industry, I want to help users understand renewable energy and how to use solar-powered appliances. We are living in a world where many are taking resources from nature and destroying it in the process. What we can do to help protect our home planet is use renewable energy. 

So, if you have any questions about appliance installation, purcahse, or anything related to solar system accessories, feel free to contact me!