Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up an Electric Fence Charger for Livestock
Installing an electric fence charger is an easy task that does not require professional help. With the right tools and materials and some basic homeowner know-how, you’ll be able to build an electric fence to contain animals without spending extra money. Here is a guide with simple instructions on how to properly install an electric fence charger:
Firstly, decide where to install the electric fence charger. The best and most practical spot is the corner post that is nearest to your power outlet. If that isn’t possible, choose the post where access to the power outlet is easiest. There are different types of electric fence chargers to choose from. Solar-powered chargers are recommended for areas with plenty of sunshine to charge the solar cells. Battery chargers are also widely used and provide a reliable power supply. Lastly, AC plug-in units are the best option for uninterrupted power supply.
After the charger is chosen, you’ll need to hammer a steel rod into the ground near the post that the charger will be installed on. Wrap about two feet of wire around the rod and attach one end of the wire to the charger’s ground screw. Take another two feet of wire and attach one end to the output screw of the electric fence charger. The other end of the wire will be connected to the electric fence wire. Wrap the wire several times and make sure that it is making a secure contact.
To connect the battery power charger to the 12V battery, do the following: Strap the black clamp of the charger to the battery’s negative post, and the red clamp to the positive post. If you are using an AC plug-in unit, simply plug the charger to the 110V power outlet. Solar-powered chargers require at least one day of exposure to the sun in order to build up electrical power.
After the electric fence charger is properly installed, you should turn it on to check if it works. Some chargers will indicate their power status with a green light. If the charger does not seem to be working, check if the battery still has any power. And for AC plug-in units, make sure it is connected properly to the power source. If you were using an extension cord, make sure that the wire was not damaged.
If all these steps have been taken care of and the charger still doesn’t seem to work, you may need to consult an expert. But if the charger shows signs of working, Congratulations! You have successfully installed an electric fence charger. Enjoy the money you just saved!