How to Install an Electric Fence Charger

Installing an electric fence charger is an easy task that does not require professional help. All that is needed is some basic how-to skills and the right tools and materials. Building an electric fence is needed to keep animals inside an enclosed perimeter. Completing the task by yourself will save you a lot of money, and you might actually enjoy it. Here is a pretty simple set of instructions to follow.

Step 1–Plan Where to Install the Electric Fence Charger

Keep in mind that the best location to install the charger is at a corner post closest to the power outlet. Alternatively, you may choose the one where access to the power outlet is easier. There are different types of chargers to choose from: solar-powered chargers, battery chargers, and AC plug-in chargers. Make sure you choose the best charger that is fit for the installed electric fence. Solar-powered chargers are recommended for areas where there is plenty of sunshine to charge the solar-powered cells. The best option is to make use of AC plug-in chargers because they ensure continued power supply.

Step 2–Install a Ground Wire

Get the steel rod and hammer it into the ground, close to post where the electric fence charger will be installed. Wrap at least two feet of wire around the rod and attach one end of the wire to the charger’s ground screw.

Step 3–Connect the Charger to the Electric Fence Wire

Cut at least two feet of wire to connect the electric fence charger to the electric fence wire. Connect one end of the wire to the output screw on the charger. Wrap around the other end of the wire to the electric fence wire. Wrap the wire several times to ensure that it makes contact.

Step 4–Connect the Charger to the Power Source

Connect the battery power charger to the 12V battery by hooking the black clamp of the charger to the battery’s negative post and the red clamp to the positive post. For an AC plug-in unit, simply plug the charger to the 110V power outlet. For solar-powered chargers, allow the charger to be exposed to the sun at least one day so that the charge builds up. Although solar-powered chargers provide an environmental-friendly alternative, it does take time to build up electrical power.

Step 5–Test the Electric Fence Charger

Check if the electric fence charger is properly installed by simply turning it on. The charger is working perfectly if it does not produce grounds. Some chargers will show that they are charging by lighting a green light. If the charger does not seem to work, check whether the battery still has any power left. In case the charger is an AC plug-in, check if it is connected properly to the power source. When using an extension cord, make sure that the wire is not damaged.