How Many Joules Should a Fence Charger Have?

A fence charger is the foundation of any electric fence, so much so that choosing the right one is crucial to an electric fence’s efficiency. It is rated in a unit of energy called joules, which is a critical consideration for the device. It’s not enough to have one of the top solar powered fence chargers to imbue their electric fence with energy. Their fencers also have to be within the ideal voltage range to meet their needs.

So, what should your energizer’s joule capacity be? Let’s look at some of the fencer voltage options for various purposes, so you can assess which one is best suited to your specifications.

Joules on a Fence Charger

Picking a voltage range without learning jargon associated with electric fences can be a huge challenge. In particular, knowing what joules on a fence energizer means helps one select a fencer with the right voltage capacity. Joule is the product of “voltage” multiplied by “amps” multiplied by “time,” so the higher the pulse’s “time” value, the higher the joule rating. This translates to a safer and more effective charger. Conversely, the lower the figure representing pulse time, the lower the joule capacity, and consequently, the lower the charger’s efficacy.

Ideally, your fence charger should be able to inject enough voltage to power the length of a fence in case of energy disruptions. We can draw an accurate comparison to a drip irrigation line, where effective watering requires a high flow rate and sufficient water pressure to meet the needs of the line’s end section. When too many holes mar that drip tape, not enough water makes it to the end to ensure an effective process. In an electric fence, this is comparable to hindrances like weeds and tall grass around the fence area and branches touching the fence. They seep energy out of the fence, taking its voltage capacity down several notches. A more appropriate term for voltage reduction is loading, a gap addressed specifically by the energizer. The device has to hold enough joules to sufficiently power the fence’s length, even in the event of a power deficit.

Electric Fence Voltage Range

Electric fences aren’t intended to harm; they’re more for providing a psychological barrier between livestock and prey that want to escape and enter these confines, respectively. In case loading occurs and keeps your fence from serving its purpose effectively, you need to be able to rely on the energizer to bridge this gap. To give you an idea of the deficit your fencer has to make up for, here are the minimum voltages for addressing the various predator and livestock species:

2000 to 3000 (Horses)

A 1000 to 2000 voltage range might be enough to deter an agreeable mare, but a hot-headed stallion requires at least a 2000-joule jolt to get the picture that they’re not supposed to come near the fence.

2000 to 4000 (Cattle)

While 2000 volts are enough to keep quiet dairy cows at bay, aggressive bulls usually need convincing above the 3000-voltage range.

4000 to 5000 (Goats)

Goats might be on the low-end of the size scale, but their natural insulation means they can take quite the punch electrically. In fact, a fence would have to be around the 4000 to 5000 voltage range to deter some tenacious goat species.

4000 to 5000 (Wolves and Coyotes)

There’s no taking any chances when it comes to these predators. Four thousand volts should be the minimum voltage requirement for these tenacious beasts. We also have deer and elk. Depending on the size, it could require anywhere around 3000 to 5000 volts to keep in check. Also, in the likelihood that your range or property lies in bear country, these man-eaters might require no less than a 5000-volt electric fence to keep away.

The Typical Recommendation

The ideal minimal joule requirement, regardless of the livestock or predator in question, is one joule for every mile of fence. Also, note that a bigger fence is only better until induction takes place. Induction means your fence already poses a danger to people, as it’s already juicing up gates and neutral wire with high energy. Voltage nearing 7000 is likely to cause induction.

Hydro, Battery, or Solar?

Whichever is the more economical power source, the answer would depend on the fencer’s ease of access. Hydro would be the most viable and cheapest option for a fence close to you. You can then go for batteries if it’s a little farther away and a solar panel if it’s in a remote location.

Importance of Having a Fence Energizer With the Right Joule Capacity

There’s no telling what can happen to the miles of miles fence around your range or property. Branches, tall grass, weeds, and other natural occurrences could disrupt the voltage running through it, potentially impacting its effectiveness. It will, in turn, could spell all kinds of consequences for you and whatever’s within your fence.

With proper joule-backing from its energizer, a fence can remain sufficiently powered along its length even amid loadings. Thus, you no longer have to worry as much about the problems that stem from these power gaps.