Selecting an Energizer
The energizer is the heart of any electric-fence system, so select it carefully. A good unit will provide years of service if it is properly installed and maintained. Price should not be the determining factor. Many operators have started with farmstore specials that ended up crashing. The cost to purchase two or three cheap models is as much or more than the cost of purchasing a good one initially.
Purchase a low impedance Energizer with a minimum 5,000-volt output. It should produce 35-65 pulses per minute with each pulse lasting not more than 0.0003 seconds. Each pulse also should have an intensity of less than 300 m Amps.
Seek advice about energizers from experienced graziers, from sales people and from NRCS personnel. NRCS employees cannot recommend specific brands, but they can offer general advice. One of the best methods is to look at several operations similar to yours, and find out what those grazers are using and if they are happy with their units.
Consider the type of livestock to be controlled. For example, containing sheep, goats or horses may require special considerations for charger size and fence construction to ensure that the animals receive adequate shocks when they contact electric fences.
Purchase a larger unit (energizer) than you think you need because graziers usually expand their systems as they realize the benefits of modern electric fencing. Also increase the size of the energizer if you anticipate a high weed load near the fence. All energizers should come with manuals that explain installation and operation. Study the manual carefully.
