- 1). Choose a fence controller based on the available power sources. Whenever possible, use an AC-powered, plug-in energizer, which typically provides more power and is the least expensive type of fence controller to operate. Battery- or solar-powered fence controllers are better suited for temporary electric fences in gardens or remote pasture locations that aren't near electrical outlets.
- 2). Calculate the total miles of wire in your fence to determine the number of joules your fence controller must produce. Add up the length of your electric fence in miles and multiply by the number of strands you plan to include in the fence; for example, if your fence will be 1.5 miles long and it will contain four charged wires, then the total length of charged wires is six miles. Provide minimally one joule of power for every six miles of charged wire, according to the University of Minnesota Cooperative Extension Service.
- 3). Check the pulse duration of the available fence controllers. Minimize potential fire and safety hazards by choosing an energizer that produces an electrical pulse that lasts 0.0003 seconds or less. Steer clear of energizers that produce a longer lasting pulse of 0.003 to 0.3 seconds in duration, especially if you're using electro-plastic polywire in your fence; the longer pulses can cause heat buildup in the electric wires and may shorten the lifespan of plastic polywire, according to the University of Minnesota Cooperative Extension.
- 4). Consider the animal species you plan to control with your electric fence. Choose a low-impedance energizer for larger, heavier animals such as cattle, horses and pigs, whose weight allows them to conduct electricity more readily. Go with a wide-impedance energizer for smaller, well-insulated animals such as sheep, goats and poultry, especially if the ground is dry, frozen or rocky.
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