Purchasing a solar fence energizer? What to look for:
Many solar units look similar -- a “wedge of cheese shape”, etc. But similar appearances can mask large differences in capability. What are the most important things to look for?
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Joules of peak output. More joules equals increased ability to keep the fence charged when green vegetation contacts the fence.
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Size of solar panel (in watts). Actually the most important number is the solar panels wattage divided by the peak draw in milliamperes. Larger numbers are better. That indicates how fast it can recharge the battery. But that’s not always available. Solar panel output divided by peak output in joules in the next best guide.
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Size of battery (in ampere hours) divided by the peak draw (in milli-amps). If not available, then battery size divided by peak output. Again, larger numbers are better.
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Whether they have battery "saving" technology.. This technology reduces the energy draw when the fence is “clean” (not in contact with wet or green weeds). “Clean” fences are most common for cattle, horses, some deer fences, and some raccoon fences. It’s not common with fences for sheep, goats, rabbits, and woodchucks.
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Included accessories. Some include a ground rod and 110v emergency battery recharger; others don’t.
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