The 8 Best Electric Fence Chargers for Horses

Having the best electric fence chargers for horses is a must-have for every horse owner. Typically, horses are beautiful and busy creatures. For this reason, they require a protective barrier.

An electric fence requires a charge to protect horses from running away. While there are varieties on the market, getting the best can be daunting. So, we’ve curled up a list of the best electric fence chargers for horses.

Without further ado, let’s kick in!

Electric Fence for Horse

Why Use an Electric Fence for Horses?

Having the best electric fence chargers for horses is vital because horses will learn to respect the electric tape. If not, all your hard work creating the paddocks will be in vain because they’ll get in and out whenever possible. 

Moreover, you can attach a battery to an electric fence charger. But generally, solar is a more efficient and less affordable way to power your fences.

What is the Best Voltage to Keep Horses Inside?

The voltage of an electric fence for horses is a critical factor to consider to protect your horse. An electric fence with the proper voltage, wire type, and spacing can successfully contain horses. 

The issue comes down to the proper fence wire type, voltage, and spacing for the horse. Some animals respond to lower voltages, while others need higher volts to persuade them that trespassing is not a good idea. Horses typically have thin coats and are strong enough to make solid ground contact.

In this case, the best horse electric fence voltage to keep horses inside is between 2,000 and 6,000 volts. The voltage will help contain the horse and keep it safe. Also, it is not strong enough to hurt your equine friend.

So, you need to know the kind of animal you have to rule out the electric fence voltage for horses. For instance, draft horses are large, requiring more voltage to keep them inside. If you need more time, start with low voltage and increase when needed.

As a rule, too much voltage in an electric horse fence can hurt your horse, while less voltage might pave the way for them to escape. So, factor in everything carefully to achieve the best results.

The Advantages and Disadvantages

An electric fence charger for horses is vital because it has many benefits. But, on the contrary, it also has disadvantages. Here are some of the advantages and drawbacks of owning one.

The Advantages

Affordable

Topping the list of the benefits of electric fences for horses is affordability. One of the most affordable techniques for controlling horses is electrical fencing. Using an electric fence charger means you’ll save money. 

Unlike other regular fences, which you might spend a lot of money repairing, electric fences require charging. All you need is to follow the instructions carefully.

Flexible

Typically, purchasing a product means you want it to be flexible. Flexibility is key because it can work in different ways. In this case, the best electric fence for horses should be flexible. As much as you think it only requires electricity, be confident that your electric fence will get power from a solar.

Better Control

Keeping horses is not a walk in the park. Since they are busy creatures, they need proper vigilance since they can get out of control. Therefore, with a suitable fence charger, you can maintain better control over keeping your horses securely. Additionally, the charger will ensure the fence has enough voltage to keep the horse.

Waterproof

Last but not least, electric fence chargers are waterproof. What does this mean? Waterproof electric fence charges will act in all weather seasons, including rain, thunderstorms, or even water. So, you don’t have to worry about weather-damaging electric fence chargers because they are weather-resistant.

The Disadvantages

Apart from the advantages of electric fence chargers for horses, they also have drawbacks. For sure, all the good things have some negative sides. So, while enjoying the benefits, be on the lookout for the bad side.

Expensive to Maintain

After getting and installing an electric fence charger, you need help. It requires regular maintenance to stay in good condition. The need for ongoing maintenance is one of the main drawbacks of installing an electric fence. 

Weeds and vegetation on wires can drain the power and destroy the entire point of the fence. In addition, broken or damaged insulators can leak electricity, poorly grounded fencers might operate badly, and if an animal is sufficiently startled, it may run through the delicate wire. However, it is a requirement, so you must return to the bank and get things in place.

Strict Laws

Unlike many countries, getting an electric fence charger for horses is not a walk in the park. You cannot get it in a shop and install it. But in the United States of America, things are different. Typically, numerous laws and guidelines apply, and one requires you to consult with your local council before installing one.

Maintain the Environment

Apart from maintaining an electric fence charger for your horse, did you know you have to check on the environment too? Yes, this is true. Environment plays a vital role in everyday life because it contains plants. 

And for sure, you must maintain the surrounding plant life. For instance, trees and grass you clipped poorly back could pose a fire risk. Furthermore, it requires proper grounding.

An Active Power Source

You can only use an electric fence with an active power source because it can be costly. However, it’s fantastic when you can access the grid since your fence is ready to go. 

You must incorporate them if you generate your power. Therefore, even though the power consumption is minimal, you must be aware of the ongoing, minimal drain.

Now, it’s time to check on the different types of electric fences for horses. Even though they work similarly, they portray various features. 

What are the Different Types of Electric Fences for Horses?

There are two kinds of electric fencing for horses. They include permanent and temporary, which may get power from four energizer options: battery, plug-in, battery/solar, or solar energizers.

A permanent electric horse fence system is the most effective way to control horses while controlling pasture. Therefore, ensuring your electric fence system has proper construction is vital. On the other hand, a temporary electric fence will last for a short time because your electric horse fence depends on the battery, solar, or battery solar energizers.

Traditional vs. Electric Fencing

Electric or traditional fencing? Many horse owners need help when searching for a new fence. Electric fencing is the best choice, as they are less expensive than a conventional wooden fence. However, traditional fences have a lot of advantages, including their stability.

Many horse owners prefer electric fencing because it offers the highest level of protection. However, horses can learn to avoid a fence when they get electrocuted.

Electric fences also provide a cost-effective solution to keep livestock pastured behind a good fence. Nonetheless, this fencing is much easier to install than wood fencing. In addition, electric fencing is more flexible because you can install it in different locations.

If you want to protect your horses, install an electric fence because they don’t cause physical harm to your horses. Instead, they will only receive a sharp feeling to keep them away from the fence materials and avoid danger. 

On the other hand, traditional fencing has existed for quite some time since they come in different materials, such as wood. Typically it is only as durable as the material it contains. If the materials are weak, horses will pass through the fence and escape. First, however, you must have a continuous power source.

Horse in nature with fence

Our Equine Electric Fence Shopping Guide

There are many types of electric fence chargers on the market. So, knowing what to consider before purchasing an electric fence charger will save you time and money. Therefore, you must factor in some vital aspects to select the best electric fence charger for horses. If this is you, consider the following tips to help you make the right choice:

Properly Powered

Topping the list of the best electric fences for horses is power. Powering an electric fence is essential since it’s the one that drives the whole operation. So, your electric fence charger’s power source is a vital aspect to factor in. 

Since they can operate on different powers, choose between AC and solar electricity. Typically, AC’s power will be more dependable. However, you can go the extra mile and combine solar and AC for better performance.

Low-Impedance

Another thing to consider is impedance. When searching for an electric fence charger, select the right impedance, typically low. Low impedance is essential when grass and weeds get in the way to prevent the charge from impeding the signal. 

Furthermore, a low-impedance electric fence charge means that there will be no signal interruption. So, for instance, if tall grass tries to get in your electric fence charger device, nothing will happen; every activity will go on as usual.

Continuous Output

Apart from low impedance and power, check on the output. In this case, you need continuous output to ensure your horses are safe. Therefore, apart from offering a pulse signal, a charge will run through the fence. And if there is a constant output, everything will run perfectly. 

Budget

One of the vital aspects when shopping for a product is price. Price is critical because, in many cases, it determines the quality of a product. Typically, a high price will go for a high-quality product, while most low-quality products are of low prices.

In this case, you need to go back to your bank and check if you can go for a high or low price. While doing this, conduct thorough research to get the best product. But spending more on a good electric fence charger won’t hurt.

Weather Resistance

Weather plays a vital role in selecting an electric fence charger. You cannot buy something for the sake of buying. When choosing an electric fence charger, you must choose a model that is weather resistant., because your fence chargers will be in all types of weather. So, get an electric fence charger that can resist all types of weather.

Our Favorite Product

Our favorite horse fence charger is Parmak DF-SP-LI Electric Fencer, Natural. Parmak, DF-SP.LI Electric Fencer offers increased output for longer life and shocks through wet weeds and brushes. Furthermore, it is easy to install and durable.

A Quick Look at Our Favorites

  1. Parmak DF-SP-LI Electric Fencer, Natural – Best overall
  2. Parmak Magnum Solar-Pak 12 Low Impedance 12 Volt Battery Operated 30 Mile Range Electric Fence Charger – Best waterproof electric fence charger.
  3. Patriot PE2 Electric Fence Energizer, 0.10 Joule – Best value
  4. Zareba EAC200M-Z 200-Mile AC-Powered Low-Impedance Electric Fence Charger – Best for large fences.
  5. Parmak HS-100 110-20-Volt Horse Surround Low Impedance Electric Fence Charger – Best electric fence charger for training horses
  6. Zareba EAC25M-Z AC Powered Low Impedance Electric Fence Charger – Best electric charger for keeping out predators.
  7. Gallagher S100 Solar Electric Fence Charger – Best electric fence charger for controlling livestock
  8. Cyclops Brute - 8 Joule Fence Charger - AC – Best electric fence charger with a strong line
Zareba EAC200M-Z 200-Mile AC-Powered Low-Impedance Electric Fence Charger,Black
Parmak DF-SP-LI Electric Fencer, Natural
Cyclops Brute - 8 Joule Fence Charger - AC
Product name
Zareba EAC200M-Z 200-Mile AC-Powered Low-Impedance Electric Fence Charger,Black
Parmak DF-SP-LI Electric Fencer, Natural
Cyclops Brute – 8 Joule Fence Charger – AC
Price
$449.99
$223.99
$309.99
Zareba EAC200M-Z 200-Mile AC-Powered Low-Impedance Electric Fence Charger,Black
Product name
Zareba EAC200M-Z 200-Mile AC-Powered Low-Impedance Electric Fence Charger,Black
Price
$449.99
Buy Now
Parmak DF-SP-LI Electric Fencer, Natural
Product name
Parmak DF-SP-LI Electric Fencer, Natural
Price
$223.99
Buy Now
Cyclops Brute - 8 Joule Fence Charger - AC
Product name
Cyclops Brute – 8 Joule Fence Charger – AC
Price
$309.99
Buy Now

Reviewing the Best Equine Electric Fence Chargers

Parmak DF-SP-LI Electric Fencer, Natural – Best Overall

Amazon’s Choice for Parmak Electric Fence Charger

Product Details

Brand: Parmak

Item dimensions:17 by 8 by 13 inches (43 by 20 by 33 centimeters)

Item weight: 11.33 pounds (5.1 kilograms)

Style: Electric Fencer

Color: Gray

Voltage: 6 volts

Warranty: No

Weatherproof: Yes

Key Features

  • Made in the USA.
  • Operates on solar or battery

General Description

Horses love hopping around; sometimes, you’d want to contain them in one spot. But how can you do this without a good electric fence? An electric fence charger like Parmak DF-SP-LI Electric Fencer will help you charge your fence to protect the horse from running away.

This electric fence charger has a Solar Pak, a more powerful solar panel offering increased output for longer life. Nonetheless, it shocks through wet weeds and brush. Besides, it is suitable for livestock control – small to medium size pastures.

In terms of voltage, this solar electric fence for horses charges up to 25 miles (40 kilometers) of the fence- and operates on solar or battery.

Pros 
  • Has a solar panel that offers an increased output for longer life
  • Charges the fence quickly.
  • Very strong
  • Easy to set up
Cons
  • Quiet expensive

Parmak Magnum Solar-Pak 12 Low Impedance 12 Volt Battery Operated 30 Mile Range Electric Fence Charger – Best Waterproof Electric Fence Charger

Product Details

Brand: Parmak

Color: Yellow/black

Product dimensions: 17 by 21 by 11 inches (48 by 53 by 28 centimeters)

Item weight: 22.08 pounds (10 kilograms)

Input voltage: 12 volts

Color: Brown

Warranty: Yes

Weatherproof: Yes

Key Features

  • Rechargeable battery
  • Weatherproof
  • Low impedance for maximum power, longer life
  • Performance meter that shows the condition of the fence

General Description

Getting an electric fence charger for your horse is good, but getting weatherproof is the real deal. If you want something that will withstand all types of weather, opt for Parmak Magnum Solar-Pak 12 Low Impedance 12 Volt Battery Operated 30 Mile Range Electric Fence Charger.

This handy tool uses the sun’s energy to charge the fencer and a sealed 12-volt rechargeable battery for the night. It also has a battery and low impedance for maximum power and longer life.

The better part is that it charges up to 30 miles (48 kilometers) of the fence, is ideal for large pastures, and is a portable outdoor model.

Pros
  • Portable
  • Suitable for all types of weather
  • Easy to install
Cons
  • Some customers complain that when the positive terminal gets lost, it’s hard to tighten it.

Patriot PE2 Electric Fence Energizer, 0.10 Joule – Best Value

Product Details

Color: Original version

Brand: Patriot

Voltage: 110 volts

Item dimensions: 3.5 by 10 by 8 inches (9 by 25 by 20 centimeters)

Material: Plastic

Warranty: Yes

Weatherproof: Yes

Key Features

  • Comes from Newzealand
  • No load voltage

General Description

Patriot PE2 Electric Fence Energizer is an electric fence charger that is easy to install and use. It comes from Newzealand and has no load voltage. In addition, the company offers a one-year full replacement warranty that you can return if you don’t like it or if it’s faulty.

Pros
  • Easy to use
  • Easy to set up
  • Affordable
Cons
  • For some, the product doesn’t work efficiently.

Zareba EAC200M-Z 200-Mile AC-Powered Low-Impedance Electric Fence Charger – Best for Large Fences

Product Details

Color: Black

Brand: Zareba Systems

Voltage: 15 volts

Item dimensions: 6.2 by 17 by 12.8 inches (16 by 43 by 35 centimeters)

Material: Plastic

Weight: 7.1 pounds (3.2 kilograms)

Warranty: Yes

Weatherproof: Yes

Key Features

  • 15 output joules
  • U.S.-built electric fence charger

General Description

The Zareba 200 Mile ACAC Powered Electric Fence Charger is built in the USA and can power large fences on your ranch or farm. This energizer delivers 15 output joules along an electric fence line, enough to handle most livestock and wildlife. 

Use steel wire and remove vegetation around your fence lines for best results. Your fence can still operate with weeds or when using poly fencing, but the mile rating needs to be higher in these conditions. To get your charger ready for operation, mount it in an area protected from severe weather. 

First, attach the hookup cables to the fence and grounding system, then plug them into power your electric fence. Once activated and checked, use it to contain livestock, including cattle, horses, exotics, pigs, sheep, and goats. A properly designed fence can also keep out wildlife and predators. 

This Zareba energizer has a simple system indicator light, which flashes when active. It has easy-to-use wingnuts to help secure your hookup wires, and the heavy-duty case includes four mounting slots. 

This charger purchase also includes a Zareba storm guard unit, which offers lightning protection. Zareba also offers a 3-year limited warranty, so review your instruction booklet to get registration instructions.

Pros
  • Has a simple system indicator light, which flashes when active
  • Storm Guard unit, which offers lightning protection
  • Easy to use
Cons
  • The included lightning protector cuts fence voltage from 15.6 kilovolts to 10.6

Parmak HS-100 110-20-Volt Horse Surround Low Impedance Electric Fence Charger – Best Electric Fence Charger for Training Horses

Product Details

Color: Black

Brand: Parmak

Voltage: 60 volts

Item dimensions: 11 by 3 by 11 inches (28 by 8 by 28 centimeters ) 

Material: Plastic

Weight: 2 pounds (9.1 kilograms)

Warranty: Yes

Weatherproof: Yes

Key Features

  • Built-in dual flashing operational red/green light
  • Low impedance

General Description

Parmark HS-100 Horse Surround Low Impedance Electric Fence Charger is an s

a safe, effective shock designed for animals sensitive to electric shocks, like horses, dogs, and short-haired animals. 

The leading equestrians approve of it, and it has advanced solid-state circuitry that shocks through weeds & brush. 

Additionally, it is quick and easy to install. Parker Mccrory HS-100 Horse Surround Fence Charger features: effective, safe, the shock to quickly train and control horses in the surrounding area. You can also return the product if unsatisfied or faulty, thanks to the 2-year warranty.

Pros
  • Quick and easy to install
  • Easy to use
  • Best for training horses
Cons
  • Some customers complain that it doesn’t work.

Zareba EAC25M-Z AC Powered Low Impedance Electric Fence Charger – Best Electric Charger for Keeping out Predators

Product Details

Color: Black

Brand: Zareba Systems

Voltage: 60 volts

Item dimensions: 4.8 x 9.4 x 11.7inches (12 by 23 by 30 centimeters)

Material: Plastic

Weight: 3.1 pounds (1.4 kilograms)

Warranty: Yes

Weatherproof: Yes

Key Features

  • Durable design
  • Built-in the U.S.A
  • AC-powered charger
  • Easy grip terminals

General Description

Are you looking for an AC-powered electric fence energizer to power your fence lines on the big enclosures in your property? If so, opt for Zareba EAC25M-Z AC Powered Low Impedance Electric Fence Charger.

This electric fence charger works in heavy weed conditions. It energizes up to 25 miles (40 kilometers) of electric fencing in ideal conditions, up to 12 miles (19 kilometers) in light weeds, and up to 6 miles (9 kilometers) in heavy weeds.

The good thing is that it is suitable for all fence types – AC-powered chargers for all electric fences, including high tensile, poly wire, and polytape. In addition, the charger’s rugged, heavy-duty cabinet protects the circuitry from weather extremes.

Built in the USA, it is powerful enough for large animals thanks to its 1.0 output joules. In addition, it will support animals and livestock such as cattle, horses, pigs, and goats.

Pros 
  • Affordable
  • Keeps away predators
  • Easy to use
Cons
  • Some complain that it stopped working after some time.

Gallagher S100 Solar Electric Fence Charger – Best Electric Fence Charger for Controlling Livestock

Amazon’s Choice in Livestock Fence Charger

Product Details

Color: Black

Brand: Gallerghers

Voltage: 12 volts

Item dimensions: 9 by 14 by 12 inches (40 by 36 by 30 centimeters)

Material: Plastic

Weight: 11.75 pounds (5 kilograms)

Warranty: Yes

Weatherproof: Yes

Key Features

  • Built-in solar panels

General Description

Gallaghers range of Solar Fence Energizers is perfect for powering electric fences in remote areas without accessing the main power. ​​Gallagher Solar Energizers have built-in solar panels and a rechargeable battery, thus an excellent choice for rotational grazing and excluding wildlife.

This electric fence charger is perfect for remote locations since it powers up a 30-mile (48 kilometers) single-wire fence covering approximately 60 to 100 acres (24 to 40 hectares). Furthermore, the Gallagher S100 is a portable tool with a built-in solar panel and is easy to install.

Gallaghers unique battery-saving technology can maintain power to your fence for a long time without sunlight. Moreover, the multiple modes of power will set it to reduce the pulse rate when horses are inactive.

The S100 Solar Electric Fence Charger has a 360-degree mounting capability for easy installation, dual power options, and a water-resistant case with a carry handle and built-in lightning protection. In addition, it comes backed by a full 3-year manufacturer’s warranty. So order it with no risk today.

Pros
  • Portable
  • Water-resistant
  • Perfect for remote locations
Cons 
  • The battery in the metal box charger is unsafe as it sits vertically with pieces of cardboard to keep it from sliding around.

Cyclops Brute - 8 Joule Fence Charger - AC – Best Electric Fence Charger with a Strong Line

Amazon’s choice for “Cyclops Fence Charger.”

Product Details

Package dimensions: 12.71 x 8.27 x 6.57 inches (32 by 21 by 17 centimeters )

Item weight: 5 pounds (2 kilograms)

Brand: Cyclops

Color: Yellow/red

Key Features

  • Comes from the USA

General Description

Cyclops Brute – 8 Joule Fence Charger – ACAC is the USA’s strongest line, battery, and solar charger. It offers protection of 100 acres (40 hectares) and 8 miles (13 kilometers). It also portrays the most robust lightning protection worldwide.

Pros
  • Strong
  • Easy to use
Cons
  • Quite pricey

Some Reader Questions Answered

Sometimes, buyers have many answered questions concerning electric horse fencing, and chargers can make it challenging to decide on the type of electric fence chargers to buy. If this is you, here are the answers to some asked questions.

Q: Are electric fences harmful to horses?

A: Yes. As with any fencing, horse injury is always possible, especially if the horses are huge and can overcome the fence. However, as stated before, the charge from an electric fence is not overly strong and should only cause mild to moderate discomfort for a horse.

Q: What happens when my power is off?

A: If the fence charger operates on electricity only, a lack of power will prevent the fence from getting current. When in doubt, it is always best to have a backup generator or choose a solar-powered model.

Q: Which type of wire is best for equine electric fence chargers?

A: Many manufacturers recommend steel wire for their electric fence chargers. It is essential to check with the manufacturer and ensure the right wire is safe. When in doubt, use steel wire for the best results.

Q: How high should the electric fence be?

A: For a two-wire fence, the wire should be 22 inches (56 centimeters) from the ground and 40 inches (101 centimeters) for the top wire. Connect the top and bottom wires every 1/2 mile (1 kilometer).

Q; Why use an electric fence for horses?

A: Electric fences offer a barrier to horses. They produce currents that spike the horse when they want to escape. When this happens, the horse will come back near the tape once the owner releases it.

Q: How will I know if the fence is working?

A: Knowing if an electric fence is working is simple as much as everything is in place. First, check if the current is running smoothly. If so, then things are good. For instance, you can prove it by trying to get your horse near the tape. If it gets a spike, then you are good to go.

Q: How do you charge an electric fence?

A: To charge an electric fence, insert the batteries or attach the charger to the external batteries. While doing this, check on the model and connect the grounding terminal of the charger. Use grounding rods with a piece of electric fence wire for effectiveness. 

After that, connect the charger’s positive terminal to the electric fence with an extra wire, then turn on the charger.

Q: How strong should the electrical charge be?

A: The strength of an electric charge depends on the amount of charge from the source. It also depends on the distance of separation from the source charge.

Q: How can I protect my charge against the elements?

A: To protect the charge against the elements, install a lightning arrester between the fence and the controller. Do the same on every corner of the fence. Ensure the device is at least 50 feet (15 meters) from the energizer.

Two horses behind fence

That’s All Folks

Electric fence chargers play a vital role in containing horses. Indeed, this is a must-have for horse owners. While there are different models on the market, you can select the best one, such as the Parmak DF-SP-LI Electric Fencer, Natural.

This electric fence charger offers increased output for longer life and shocks through wet weeds and brushes. Additionally, it is easy to install and durable. You can also select the best one from our list and relieve yourself from the headache of controlling your equine friend.