Electric fences - livestock keeper and protector!
In the world of modern farming and livestock management, keeping animals safe and contained is a top priority. Whether it's to prevent them from wandering off, protecting them from predators, or simply organising pasture space, electric fences have proven to be an efficient solution. The key component of these systems is the electric fence energiser. But what exactly is an electric fence energiser, and why is it such an important tool for livestock keepers and protectors?
What Is an Electric Fence Energiser?
An electric fence energiser, also known as a charger or energiser, is a device that provides the electrical power to an electric fence system. It converts electricity from an outlet (in the case of mains-powered energisers) or a battery (for battery-powered systems) into a high-voltage pulse that runs along the wire of the fence. The voltage delivered is not harmful but is strong enough to deter animals from attempting to cross the fence line.
How Do Electric Fences Work?
Electric fences operate based on a simple principle of conducting electricity through the fence wires. When an animal touches the fence, the electricity travels through its body to the ground, causing a brief, but startling, shock. This shock is not harmful but is enough to train the animal to avoid the fence in the future.
The Role of an Electric Fence Energiser for Livestock Keepers
For livestock keepers, an electric fence energiser offers numerous benefits, making it an invaluable tool in animal management.
- Containment: One of the main reasons livestock owners use electric fences is to keep their animals contained within a designated area. Whether it’s to prevent cows from straying into dangerous roads, keep sheep within the pasture, or ensure that horses remain within their stable grounds, electric fences provide a simple yet highly effective solution. The mild shock acts as a deterrent, teaching the animals to respect the fence boundaries.
- Protection from Predators: Electric fences are also used to protect livestock from predators. By creating a barrier that is not only physical but also electrified, these fences make it much harder for predators like coyotes, wolves, or wild dogs to approach or attack livestock. The shock delivered by the fence discourages any unwanted animals from crossing the boundary.
- Low Maintenance: Compared to traditional fences made of wood, stone, or wire, electric fences require less maintenance. The wires and energisers are built to be durable and weather-resistant. As long as the energiser is functioning properly and the wires are intact, the fence will remain effective.
- Flexibility and Scalability: Electric fences are incredibly versatile. Livestock keepers can easily modify and expand their fence lines depending on the changing needs of the farm or ranch. This makes electric fences ideal for rotating pastures or creating temporary enclosures for specific tasks like feeding or medical treatment.
- Cost-Effective: Installing a traditional fence can be costly due to the need for labour, materials, and time. Electric fences, on the other hand, tend to be more cost-effective, especially when it comes to larger enclosures. Once the initial investment is made in the energiser and materials, the ongoing costs are relatively low, particularly if using solar-powered energisers.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Electric Fence Energiser
Choosing the right electric fence energiser is crucial for the system to function effectively. Several factors need to be considered when selecting an energiser, including:
- The Size of the Area: Larger enclosures will require an energiser with a higher joule output to ensure the electric pulse covers the entire fence line.
- The Type of Livestock: The reason being different animals have different levels of resistance to electric shocks.
- Power Source: Depending on the availability of electricity on the property, farmers can choose between mains-powered energisers, solar-powered units, or battery-operated energisers.
- Fence Wire Type: Some energisers are more suitable for certain types of fencing, such as high-tensile wire or polywire.
Final Thoughts
The electric fence energiser is the heartbeat of any electric fencing system, transforming a simple boundary into an effective containment and protection solution for livestock. With the proper choice of energiser and regular maintenance, an electric fence can help ensure the well-being of livestock while giving owners peace of mind.