{"id":14823,"date":"2022-05-08T20:18:44","date_gmt":"2022-05-08T19:18:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/businessfinancenews.com\/?p=14823"},"modified":"2022-05-09T11:07:07","modified_gmt":"2022-05-09T10:07:07","slug":"solar-powered-electric-fence","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/businessfinancenews.com\/home\/solar-powered-electric-fence\/","title":{"rendered":"solar powered electric fence"},"content":{"rendered":"
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There are three types of electric fences: electric grid powered, battery powered and solar powered. Each relies on a component known as an electric fence charger to convert the incoming charge into a safer form of electricity. The difference among the three is how the charger is powered. <\/p>\n
Solar electric fences rely on sunlight to power the charger, rather than an A\/C outlet or a standard battery. Most solar-powered electric fences are used on farms or in remote areas where there is no easy access to the electrical grid. They\u2019re used to contain cattle or livestock in a field or to keep unwanted animals out of a garden.<\/p>\n
Solar electric fences work by sending the animal a shock when it comes in contact with one of the live wires. The solar chargers require batteries, but the batteries last a long time because they are constantly recharged by the sun.<\/p>\n
Solar chargers range in price from about $100 to $500<\/strong>, depending on how many miles or acres the charger will power. Occasionally, they run as high as $1,000<\/strong> or more. Electric fencing usually costs anywhere from $0.10 to $0.20 per foo<\/strong>t – far less than conventional fencing.<\/p>\n Replacement batteries, which are necessary every three to four years, cost anywhere from $10 to $100<\/strong>, depending on the voltage. <\/p>\n Installing a solar fence is manageable for most do-it-yourselfers. The process involves mounting the solar charger where it will receive the maximum amount of sunlight, setting up posts, running the wire, grounding the system and attaching the fencing to the charger. <\/p>\n The step-by-step process is outlined here. If the directions sound like they\u2019re written in a foreign language, you\u2019re better off hiring a professional installer.<\/p>\n Keep in mind that the vast majority of problems with solar electric fences are related to improper grounding. If you don\u2019t understand this step, seek help. Also, know that some cities and towns require a permit to install an electric fence, while others don\u2019t allow electric fences at all. Check with local officials before installation. <\/p>\n The solar panel on your charger should be cleaned from time to time – a dirty or dusty panel will not operate at peak efficiency. Simply use a soft cloth and water.<\/p>\n The battery requires some maintenance, too, if you want it to last for several years. When the battery is not in use, make sure it is fully charged before it is stored. And during any period when the battery is stored, place it in the sun for three days every three months to recharge (with the controller off).<\/p>\n
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\n <\/ul>\n Regular electric fences are either A\/C powered – meaning they\u2019re plugged into an outlet that draws power from the grid – or battery powered. A\/C-powered electric fence chargers tend to be cheaper and easier to maintain, so most experts recommend them if you have access to power.<\/p>\n Like solar electric fences, A\/C- or battery-powered versions can be used to contain livestock or to keep unwanted animals out of gardens. Don\u2019t confuse them with invisible fences for pets, which have wires that are buried underground. <\/p>\n A\/C- and battery-powered chargers cost about $50 to $400,<\/strong> depending on how many miles or acres the charger will power. A charger on that low end of that price range might power 2 or 3 miles of wire; a charger on the high end might power 200 miles of wire. Wire is priced at about $0.10 to $0.20 per foot.<\/strong> <\/p>\n
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\n <\/ul>\n Installing an A\/C- or battery-powered electric fence is a very similar process to installing a solar electric fence. Of course, you don\u2019t have to worry about placing the charger in direct sunlight. And if you opt for an A\/C powered version, you have to make sure the charger is close to an outlet. <\/p>\n Inspect your electric fence every so often to make sure it is working properly. Check the charger for cracks or water damage, measure the volts to determine the amount of current coming through the wires and physically inspect wires for breakage. When you do this, make sure the electrical box and electricity are turned off. Replace any sections of wire that are damaged.<\/p>\n You\u2019ll also want to trim trees and shrubs near the electric fence, as they can weaken the electric signal. <\/p>\n
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\n <\/ul>\nInstalling a Solar Electric Fence <\/h4>\n
Maintaining a Solar Electric Fence <\/h4>\n
Solar Fence Pros <\/h4>\n
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Solar Fence Cons <\/h4>\n
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Regular Electric Fences <\/h4>\n
How Much Does Regular Electric Fencing Cost? <\/h4>\n
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Installing a Regular Electric Fence <\/h4>\n
Maintaining a Regular Electric Fence <\/h4>\n
Regular Electric Fence Pros <\/h4>\n
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Regular Electric Fence Cons <\/h4>\n
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