Which electrifier should I choose?
Electrifiers are a key element of protective systems used in agriculture and animal husbandry, serving not only to protect farm animals, but also crops from unwanted guests. Their use covers a wide range of activities, from securing pastures and paddocks, through protecting crops against wild animals, to limiting access to selected areas. Thanks to electrifiers, it is possible to effectively deter wild animals, such as wild boars, deer or foxes, which may pose a threat to crops and farmed animals. In this article we will discuss what to consider when choosing an energizer, what are the main differences between them and which energizer to choose for different types of animals.
What should you consider when choosing an energizer?
The main differences between energizers concern power supply, power, operating range and additional functions such as line voltage control, remote control or diagnostic indicators. These parameters affect the effectiveness, comfort of use and price of the device. Although the basic principle of operation of energizers is common, they differ from each other in several respects, Canagri recommends paying attention to:
- Power and operating range - some models are designed for use in small areas, others can support fences several dozen kilometers long. The choice of model depends on the size of the area to be fenced.
- Type of power supply - energizers can be powered by the electricity grid, batteries or solar panels. The choice of power source depends on the availability of electricity at the installation site and on the user's preferences.
- Electrical impulse strength - different models can generate impulses with different strengths, measured in joules. Stronger pulses are more effective for larger animals or in places where animals are particularly resistant to fencing.
- Pulse frequency - The frequency at which the device sends pulses may vary. Some models may offer the ability to adjust this frequency.
- Additional functions - modern energizers can offer additional functions, such as monitoring the condition of the fence, failure signaling, or remote control and monitoring via a mobile application.
- Weather resistance - models intended for outdoor use are usually designed to withstand difficult weather conditions, such as rain, snow or high temperatures.
Which energizer for horses?
Horses are usually satisfied with a lower voltage, but it is important that the energizer is able to overcome any vegetation touching the fence. Electrifiers with low impedance (resistance) are able to maintain high voltage even in the event of a partial short circuit. If you plan to frequently change the fence location (e.g. in rotational pastures), it is worth considering 9V or 12V battery energizers that are easy to carry. Horses are sensitive and easily startled, so the energizer should be powerful enough to effectively repel the animals, but not so powerful as to injure them.
Which energizer for cattle?
Beef cattle may need a strong electrical impulse to effectively scare them away. 230V mains energizers are often recommended for permanent installations, especially for larger areas. When choosing an energizer for cattle, it is important that it is resistant to various weather conditions, especially if it will be used outdoors all year round. For large grazing areas where access to mains power may be limited, 12V battery energizers, which can also be equipped with solar panels for charging, may be a solution.
What kind of electrifier for goats and sheep?
High-power, high-voltage energizers are recommended because goats and sheep are not deterred by the fence itself, but by the electrical impulse, which must be strong enough to effectively repel these animals, even when exposed to dense vegetation. Mains energizers are ideal for permanent installations where it is possible to connect to mains power. Battery-powered should be used for remote or rotational pastures where changing locations is key. The option to add solar panels can provide additional convenience and independence. Battery-powered is the best solution for temporary or seasonal fences, where ease of installation and relocation is a priority.
Which energizer for wild animals?
To protect against wild animals, it is best to choose a strong mains or battery energizer with the option of connecting a solar panel. High-power, low-resistance devices are able to deliver an effective electrical impulse, key to scaring away larger and more resistant animals such as wild boars and deer, as well as agile animals such as foxes. It is important that the fence is properly designed, with lines carrying electricity at different heights, to constitute an effective barrier against the unwanted effects of wild animals. (protecting farmland, securing chicken coops, etc.) It is worth considering purchasing solar panels for battery energizers, especially in remote locations, to ensure continuous operation and minimize the need for maintenance. The solidity, reliability and ease of use of the device are also key aspects that will ensure long-term and effective protection.
What type of power supply?
- 9V battery energizers are powered by disposable 9-volt batteries. They are suitable for temporary or portable fencing installations where access to electrical power is limited or absent. Their main advantage is ease of installation and mobility, but they require regular battery replacement.
- 12V battery energizers work on the principle of rechargeable 12-volt batteries. They can be used in more permanent installations where greater power and longer uninterrupted operation of the device are required. These batteries can be charged using standard chargers and even using solar panels, which makes them more economical and ecological in long-term use compared to 9V battery energizers.
- 230 V mains energizers are devices designed to power electric fences that are connected directly to a permanent 230 V electrical network. These are stationary solutions ideal for places where access to a constant power source is not a problem, such as farms, stables, or areas protected by permanent fences. Mains energizers are usually characterized by greater power and efficiency than battery or accumulator models, which allows them to power longer sections of the fence and provide effective protection over larger areas. They are also more economical for long-term use because they eliminate the need to regularly replace batteries or recharge batteries.
- Universal energizers are characterized by the fact that they can operate with both mains power (230V) and batteries or accumulators (12V), and some models can also be powered by solar panels. Thanks to this versatility, these energizers are very flexible in use and can be used in a variety of places - from permanent installations in agricultural areas to temporary fences in pastures or for protection against wild animals.
Ease of installation
Connecting the energizer is a process that most users can perform on their own, regardless of their technical skills. Most energizer models come with an instruction manual that will guide you step by step through the installation process. Generally, this process involves connecting the device to a power source (mains, battery or solar) and then connecting to fence lines and ground.
Keeping these criteria in mind, you can make an informed choice of an energizer that will suit both your needs and the expectations of the animals that you want to stay behind the fence. Also, do not forget to regularly service and check the condition of the fence to ensure its maximum effectiveness and safety of use.