Gallagher S12 Solar Fence Charger
The Gallagher S12 Solar Fence Charger is a great choice, thanks to its ability to support any wiring method. Its incredibly lightweight, is easy to mount, and comes with a great warranty as well. This is a solid choice for less conventional electric fences or those with unusual setups that require a versatile solar electric fence charger.
Joule Output
The Gallagher S12 has a joule output of .12, which is just shy of the .15 output of the Zareba ESP10M-Z. This will let it cover about four miles of fencing, which is around what the Zareba ESP10M-Z offers.
Animals Being Contained
The Gallagher S12 was designed with smaller livestock in mind, similar to the Zareba ESP10M-Z or the Premier Solar IntelliShock. It doesnt do anything special above the others for these kinds of animals, and honestly, the three are rather interchangeable in this regard.
If anything, the Zareba ESP10M-Z or Premier Solar IntelliShock might be a better choice against larger predators on a single strand, thanks to a higher voltage.
Warranty
The Gallagher S12 stands out from the crowd thanks to a three-year warranty on the battery and device. The only other devices to match this warranty are the Gallagher lineup, the Gallagher S40, and Gallagher S6.
Installation
It also differs from other options like the Zareba ESP10M-Z in that it can support any type of wiring.
Other Products Notes
Pros
Cons
Criteria For The Best Most Powerful Solar Fence Charger
- Is your most powerful solar fence charger suitable for a commercial kitchen?
- Is your most powerful solar fence charger fit for purpose?
- Are they energy efficient?
- Can your most powerful solar fence charger cope with emerging food trends and dietary requirements?
- Does most powerful solar fence charger make financial sense?
- How much will your most powerful solar fence charger cost you to maintain?
Top Tips On How To Troubleshoot Electric Fence Problems
We have compiled a quick guide of what common electric fence problems are and the causes.
- Energizer dead. Check the primary power outage and ensure the energizer is switched on, check fuses, battery, cells, and corroded terminals.
- Energizer switched on but low voltmeter reading. Check for weak batteries, terminals corroded, energizer on low setting.
- Energizer switched on, but no voltmeter reading at the fence. Feedwire terminals corroded, ground-return wire disconnected or broken.
- Low voltmeter readings. Energizer on low setting or not strong enough for the length of the fence. Batteries weak, terminals corroded, inadequate ground system.
- No voltmeter reading at a location on the fence. Broken wire or dead short across wires. Disconnected jumper wire. Broken ground rods.
- Voltmeter reading higher on one wire than another wire. Broken fence, jumper, or ground wire. Faulty insulator. Broken ground rod.
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Where Should You Install The Solar
The solar electric fence chargers are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions under the rain, hail, or snow. Therefore, you dont need to get worried about environmental conditions while installing this unit.
Make sure that the solar panels receive direct sunlight in order to maximize energy conversion and charge the battery faster. You should position the charger off-ground in a place where no shade covers the unit. Similarly, try to install the solar charger outside of the fence in order to avoid collision or damage caused by the animals.
For improving the performance, you can place the solar chargers as close as possible to the grounding rods that you have installed. You can also install the charger in the middle of the fence in the position where one side of the fence is not far away from the unit when comp[ared to the other side. It ensures that you will have a similar voltage across the fence and that no drastic voltage drop will occur at any point of the fence.
Gallagher North America G341414 S16 Fence Charger
The S16 version can reach 30 acres or 10 miles in a single wire fencing area without greenery. It can offer a range of 1 mile for multiple wire fence arrangements that are surrounded by weeds and grass. Meanwhile, the energy output it can generate amounts to 0.12 joules.
Like other Gallagher solar fence charger models, this one is built with a weatherproof and drop-resistant case. In the same way, this solar charging device is designed with a built-in lightning shield that makes it incredibly durable for long periods of usage in outdoor areas.
As for battery efficiency, the battery can extend its usage up to 3 weeks without adequate sun exposure. This is obtained by delivering reduced pulse rates at dusk and a faster pulse speed at daylight. Everyone who likes mid-range solar-powered fence chargers should consider this alternative.
This unit is a product that wont fail to meet users expectations. In our opinion, this solar fence charger is worth every single cent we pay for it. This solar charging device is also crafted with a 360-degree mounting capability. Hence, such a feature is ideal for keeping the solar panels adjusted with the sun to obtain optimal solar power absorption.
- Seems not ideal for flat board mounting
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Ensure That The Solar Fence Charger You Want Has Enough Range
Charging a fence around a small vegetable garden is very different from energizing several acres of grazing land. So you need to pick your solar fence charger accordingly. The range of a fence energizer depends on many factors, such as the type and number of fence wires, their overall resistance, the quality of grounding, the soil, etc.
Interestingly, while its tempting to rely on the area , its better to focus more on the perimeter of the fence . Either way, we recommend checking these parameters using an online tool like Google Maps or ACMEs Planimeter . Theyre super easy to use and offer accurate information on the perimeter and area of your farm.
But you should note that the indicated range of a solar fence charger is only achieved under the best conditions with high-quality wires. Real-world usage generally offers a lower range than expected.
Hence, its crucial to know the kind of fence youll be using and the grounding, as these two factors are the most significant. You should also clear any vegetation and undergrowth and keep your soil moist and well-watered to ensure maximum performance.
For example, you look at a charger with a range of thirty miles. If you have a single strand that is thirty miles long, youre in business. However, if you have three or four strands covering thirty miles, then you need something with a 90-120 miles range to achieve effective electric fencing.
Can You Power Other Solar Devices Using Your Solar Fence Charger
Unfortunately, most solar fence chargers output current and energy according to electric fences. And if you try to charge a battery or power other devices, their voltage rating may not be compatible due to which using a solar fence charger with other devices is not possible.
2. Where should you install a solar fence charger for your electrical fences?
To ensure that the solar panel of your solar fence charger is getting enough sunlight, you need to make sure that it has a decent height so that sunlight falls on it for as long as possible. You can also move the solar panel towards the south direction since it will increase the amount of sunlight falling on it even more.
3. How do you connect your electric fence to a solar fence charger?
In order to connect your electric fence to a given solar fence charger, you will need to directly connect stripped wires of your electric fence to the wire ports of your solar fence chargers, While the black clip is to be connected to the ground stake, the red clip gets connected to the fence.
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What Is A Solar Electric Fence Charger
Also known as a solar fencer or energizer, a solar fence charger is a device that helps generate the electrical current that runs through the solar electric fence. The solar chargers use energy from the sun to generate power that is used to deter encroaching animals or prevent livestock from going beyond a particular area.
The solar fence charger is rated based on the current it produces. The produced current is then conducted through a sequence of uninsulated electric wires that together form a closed circuit.
The Best Solar Fence Charger For You
So, what is the best solar fence charger for you?
It really depends on your specific needs and situation.
Hopefully, this article has helped you to better understand the different factors that go into choosing a solar fence charger and has given you some ideas of chargers that might work well for you.
If you’re still not sure, remember to consider your specific needs and the size of your property.
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Zareba Esp10m Electric Fence Fence Charger
Zareba is one of the best brands for manufacturing and designing electric fencing systems, and thus Zareba ESP10M-Z Solar Low Impedance Electric Fence Fence Charger is an ideal choice to go for.
With a 10-mile solar electric fence range, it is suitable for short-haired animals like bulls, cattle, horses as well as goats. As it delivers energy shock up to 0.15 joules, it is suitable to keep any kind of short-haired animals contained in their fence system.
When installing the Zareba systems, the users are recommended to charge the 6-volt battery at first for almost 3 days in switched off position to charge the rechargeable battery completely. After this solar powered electric fence charger is completely charged, it will last up to two weeks without charging as it offers remarkable reliability on solar power.
The main highlight of the Zareba ESP10M-Z Low Impedance Electric Fence Fence Charger is that it can reach up to 10 miles of the electric fence without weeds, a 5 miles steel wire without weeds and a poly wire without weeds. Because the heavy weed conditions can lower the range to zero and a light weed lowers it to 5 miles or 2.5 miles.
Stand-out features include
- Easily monitor fence status and controls.
- Performance meter to show the condition of the fence.
- Easy to install.
- Product Dimensions -11.5 x 8 x 11.2 inches
- Open circuit voltage 11,400 volts
How To Safely Operate An Electric Fence
Unlike other home solar products, electric fence chargers are specifically designed to generate a shock or damage. Therefore, it is necessary to know the keys to safely and successfully operate an electric fence by performing several tests.
Before installing the fence charger in a wood post, you must make sure that the device is turned off. The battery contained inside the product will probably have some charge. Turning on the device before connecting it to the hot and ground terminals could lead to an unexpected electric shock.
The next step after installation is finished is to leave the product for at least 3-4 days receiving direct sunlight to allow the solar panels to recharge the DC battery. Then, you must turn on the solar powered electric fence charger and perform the corresponding tests. A performance meter or indicator light will generally be available to perform tests on the product.
The first test should be performed to verify that the meter actually works, and it will show you if the meter is able to smoothly measure the increase in voltage to the ultimate value.
The second test is related to checking the state of charge of the battery which will indicate how much energy is available inside the battery regarding its maximum capacity.
Finally, the last test should be to check the voltage output of the solar electric fence under normal conditions. The meter should indicate the open-circuit value of the electric fence.
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What Are The Benefits Of Using Most Powerful Solar Fence Charger
Quite a few! Aside from making cooking easier and more efficient, many most powerful solar fence charger can also help you make healthier choices by allowing you to prepare foods without added oils or fats. Additionally, some tools like blenders and food processors can actually help you save time in the kitchen by eliminating the need to chop or shred ingredients by hand.
Connect The Fence To The Charger
Once it is securely mounted, connect the ground wire to the ground terminal hook of the charger. After that, connect the wire to a ground rod system by using ground rod clips and insulated cords.
The fence wire then needs to be connected to the fence terminal in order for the charger to pass the current.
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How Do You Store A Solar Fence Charger
The solar units need to be turned off before the fence is disconnected. Allow the panel to charge for a couple of days by facing it south. You can store the unit in a temperature controlled climate by removing the leads from the battery terminal. You can charge batteries to full and then store them in a temperature controlled environment.
What Is The Most Powerful Electric Fence Charger
The most powerful electric fence charger that runs on solar power is the Gallagher S400. This energizer offers over 3 joules of output joules, with a range of almost 60 miles. Gallagher also makes the M10000i the most powerful mains-powered unit in the world. It has over 100 joules of energy and a range of over 125 miles.
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Do Solar Fence Chargers Wear Out Easily
Do Solar Fence Chargers Wear Out Easily? No they do not. They are extremely rugged and durable. Most solar fence chargers last for a minimum 3-5 years while some can go for a decade or more.
It is all based on the capacity of the battery and the constant weather conditions where the charger is mounted.
How Long Do Solar Fence Chargers Last
Solar-powered fence chargers commonly last two to three weeks with low or zero levels of sunlight, provided theyre fully charged. If they absorb adequate sunlight throughout the week, these devices can completely operate on solar energy.
In addition, a high-quality solar fence charger can generally last three to four years with some minimal maintenance.
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Choosing The Right Fence Charger
The fence charger is the heart of your electric fence system. Finding the best-matched charger for your fence is imperative to successfully contain or exclude animals. Consider the following items to ensure you buy the right fence charger to meet your needs.
- Powering your fence charger. The recommended and most reliable choice is AC-power. If you need to power your fence from a remote location, DC or solar-powered fence chargers are an excellent choice. Solar-powered fence chargers feature the benefits of charging your battery using solar power.
- Type of fence line. Steel wire creates less electrical resistance than polywire, rope or tape, which draw more power. If you are using polyrope or tape, we recommend a low-impedance fence controller. Aluminum wire has less resistance than steel wire.
- Number of fence wire strands. As a general rule for multi-wire fences, divide the chargers distance rating by the number of strands, then select a charger with a mileage rating that meets those needs. Always increase power needs when adding additional wires.
Note: 1 square mile = 4 mile perimeter = 640 acres. Remember that polywire, rope and tape have a higher resistance rating and thus will need a charger with a higher distance rating.
Silver Streak 12v Lightning Diverter Solar Fence Charger
The Silver Streak 12V Lightning Diverter is a fantastic choice for buying something a little cheaper than the Parmak Magnum Solar-Pak. It does sacrifice in joules, but its much lighter and easier to mount, making it versatile for most fencing types.
Joule Output
This Silver Streak solar fence charger puts off two joules of energy. This is less than the Parmak Magnums 3.1 but would serve just fine on fencing between two to ten miles depending on if its single strand or multi-strand. Anything longer would require the Parmak Magnum, which can reach up to 30 miles.
Animals Being Contained
This product packs enough voltage to keep just about any livestock safe and secure in their paddock. This includes cows, horses, and even bulls with the right setup.
In addition, itll keep large pests like deer and predators like bears away from the animals. This is also accomplished with electric fence chargers like the Parmak Magnum or even the Zaareba ESP10M-Z with similar voltage outputs.
When used on multi-strand fences, itll keep smaller animals in and small pests and predators out. However, itll probably be overkill and more expensive than devices designed for this use, like the Gallagher S12 or the Gallagher S6.
The Silver Streak will have one advantage of piercing through a sheeps wool, which is not common in lower caliber devices. Only the Parmak Magnum and maybe the Zareba ESP10M-Z on a single strand can do this reliably.
Warranty
Installation
Other Products Notes
Pros
Cons
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Fault In The Ground System
Check the voltage of the ground system once it has been reconnected. If the voltage is defective, check the ground rods to see if any water has leaked into the ground system.
This procedure is hazardous and could require extra training if you are going to repair the fault yourself. If you are not experienced with electricity, it is best to consult an electrician for assistance.
My Top 5 Favorite Zareba Electric Fence Products
If you decided to cut down on your budget this year, what better way than switching to solar power? This is the best 5-mile solar fence charger by Zareba.
Due to its convenient dimensions, the charger is portable and easy to relocate.
Its best designed for remote locations that do not have easy access to A.C. power sources.
Additionally, the low impedance fence charger delivers up to 0.10 output joules, so its best used for short-haired animals such as pigs, cattle, and horse applications.
The Zareba solar charger includes an energy storage panel that collects solar energy and lasts for two weeks without direct sun.
The low impedance solar fence charger can be paired with a steel wire, poly rope, and tape.
The 5-mile solar fence charger unit can be mounted easily on t and y-posts and flat surfaces thanks to the mounting brackets.
The charger includes an indicator light that lets you know when the fence is running and the helpful brackets.
Next up, we have the low impedance Zareba charger that covers up to 25 miles of fence. Its price stands at a mid-affordable point, but the overall quality is terrific!
For starters, its designed to work well in heavy weeds condition.
Many electric fence charger units will compromise their power due to the rich vegetation in the garden. But not this one!
The 25-mile low impedance charger is A.C. powered source. It can deliver up to 1.0 joules output and can be versatile used.
Additionally, its excellent for small animals and livestock.
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