Say Goodbye to High Electricity Bills With the Best Solar Fence Charger of 2022

If your New Year’s resolution is to save more money this year, keep reading!

High electricity bills are inevitable if you live in a big household, especially if you take care of the livestock!

Did you know it’s manageable if you keep your electric fence charged up and avoid paying hundreds of dollars on the bill?

Solar electric fence chargers are a revolutionary solution that keeps away the wild animals and occupants by using solar energy it collects during the day!

They do not cost a lot, yet they are currently one of the most reliable energy sources!

These are my top 8 best solar fence chargers of 2022!

Best Solar Fence Chargers: My Top 8 Choices

$$ – Zareba ESP5M-Z 5-Mile Solar Low Impedance Electric Fence Charger

The market’s best low impedance technology charger. It reduces the chance of a serious electric shock due to the high voltage output. Still, low impedance can also operate without sun for up to two weeks.

It may not be powerful enough for some

$$$ – Parmak Magnum Solar-Pak

The efficient solar-powered electric fence charger that is perfect for bigger properties as it covers up to 30 miles, includes a rechargeable battery and a built-in performance meter.

However, it’s pretty pricey.

$$ – Parmak DF-SP-LI Electric Fencer

Includes a rechargeable battery, so the solar-powered electric fence charger operates cost-free. It’s efficient for smaller pastures that measure 25 miles.

However, it has reported longevity issues.

$$ – Silver Streak Solar Fence Charger

Includes a lightning diverter for safe use under unstable weather, has a clip-on battery, and delivers excellent power.

$$ – Zareba ESP10M-Z 10-Mile Solar

The best built-in solar panel design that can run for two weeks without solar power. It’s easy to install, thanks to the mounting brackets.

However, longevity is questionable.

$$ – Gallagher S12 Solar Electric Fence Charger

One of the best solar-powered fence chargers with convenient dimensions and portability, it’s easy to install and use even in low-light weather.

However, it requires to be mounted on a steel rod.

$$ – Pets And Livestock Solar Powered Fence Charger Energizer Panel

Easy to install and portable, works on poly tape and wire, and is capable of charging in low-light weather conditions.

However, it’s only suitable for smaller properties.

$$$ – Premier Solar IntelliShock 60 Fence Energizer

The fence charger includes a 2-year warranty and the most straightforward installation system! It should be placed on the ground to absorb solar energy, and it has a great battery capacity.

However, it’s somewhat pricey.

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#1. Zareba ESP5M-Z 5-Mile Solar Low Impedance Electric Fence Charger – Best Pick

• Brand: Zareba
• Dimensions: 7.9 x 7.9 x 15 inches
• Mile Range: 5 miles of fence
• Voltage: 8.6 V output and 6 VDC input

The Zareba ESP5M Z is the most reliable solar electric fence charger you can get in 2022! It’s our best pick for a few reasons, so let’s check it out!

The Zareba ESP5M Z electric fence charger is a superior choice for livestock and cattle owners who want to keep the intruders away!

Besides, it has a low impedance technology of 0.10 joules, perfect for short-haired animals.

This means it will deliver high voltage but low impedance volume, reducing the chance of a severe accident.

But, how does the Zareba ESP5M Z install? The majority of the users say that this is the easiest solar charger to install!

It comes with mounting brackets that easily mount onto the fence, and it even has a 360-degree rotation angle that follows the sun.

Plus, it’s compatible with the majority of fences, such as poly wire, aluminum, poly rope, and poly tape fences.

However, what surprised users the most is that this Zareba ESP5M Z charger can operate for at least two weeks without the sun!

Furthermore, it stores solar energy smartly so that you can benefit from this solar fence energizer the most!

#2. Parmak Magnum Solar-Pak – Runner Up

• Brand: Parmak
• Dimensions: 21 x 17 x 11 inches
• Mile Range: 30 miles
• Voltage: 12 volts

The previous charger is an excellent choice for a small to medium-sized pasture. However, what do you do when you need a solar charger for a bigger property?

Then, you get the Parmak Magnum solar pak! It’s incredible to power a larger fence system of up to 30 miles.

This is also a good choice for those who also want to get a solar electric fence charger from a reliable brand.

The brand has been on the market for decades now! It’s a USA-based brand with years and years of experience in the business.

So, how exactly does this versatile solar charger work?

The Parmak Magnum solar pak includes a 12 V sealed and a lead-acid battery that powers up the fence during night hours.

It also has a performance meter with three functions.

Therefore, the performance meter can indicate the battery level and voltage output test and test the performance function.

Additionally, this is a low impedance technology charger that has a high voltage output, but it reduces the chance of a severe electric shock.

It’s great for small animals, but it’s also safer for owners.

It’s made from waterproof components, so you can install this powerful electric fence charger anywhere without worrying about the weather!

#3. Parmak DF-SP-LI Electric Fencer – Best For Smaller Pastures

• Brand: Parmak
• Dimensions: 17 x 8 x 13 inches
• Mile Range: 25 miles
• Voltage: 6V

We could not help but review one more Parmak solar-powered fence charger! It’s pretty similar to its competitor. However, this one will be more suitable for a smaller pasture.

The difference between the two is 5 miles less coverage. However, the Parmak DF-SP-LI is unique in a few more features.

To begin with, the Parmark solar electric fence charger also includes a built-in performance meter that will indicate the battery drain.

Also, it shares the low impedance charger function and a weather-proof material.

Many customers were also pleased with how easy it is to install this electric fence system!

Almost all Parmark solar-powered fence chargers are user-friendly so that no customer will experience the troublesome installation.

It efficiently protects livestock and cattle from short-haired animal intruders, and it has high energy output.

Moreover, the solar electric fence charger can also shock through wet bushes or even weeds.

Overall, the qualities are the same as with the previous Parmark solar-powered fence charger.

Generally, it works fantastic, and it even has up to 42% more battery endurance than other solar fence chargers.

It’s budget-friendly, so if you are looking for a choice for Parmak Magnum Solar-Pak, you have found the best solar electric fence charger in this category!

#4. Silver Streak Solar Fence Charger – Best Solar Fence Charger With A Lightning Protection

• Brand: Silver Streak
• Dimensions: 10 x 6 x 10 inches
• Mile Range: 100 acres
• Voltage: 2 joules of output power

When searching for the best solar fence charger, you must have bumped into the Silver Streak charger!

It’s a solar-powered fence charger that comes in an affordable budget range and works spectacularly at keeping intruders away!

Many solar-powered fence chargers use batteries. However, most of them are rechargeable or tend to drain pretty quickly.

The Silver Streak solar electric fence charger works quite differently.

Although it’s battery-powered, it allows you to clip in any 12 V battery on the unit! That’s right, clip in!

Unfortunately, the battery is not built into the solar fence charger, but it leaves room for versatility.

Additionally, it also has an indicator light that tells you that the charger is working.

It’s also powerful, as it delivers 2 joules of charge and can work on poly wire, poly rope, T-rope, aluminum wire, and suit steel wire.

The Silver Streak solar electric fence charger is also excellent for large areas!

It covers up to 100 acres of fence wire while collecting solar power during the day.

A unique feature of this solar panel is that it includes a free lightning protection diverter.

Lightning protection is necessary, especially for low impedance chargers, as it diverts the lightning directly into the ground instead of the fence.

#5. Zareba ESP10M-Z 10-Mile Solar – Best Solar Charger With A Built-In Solar Panel

• Brand: Zareba
• Dimensions: 11.5 x 8 x 11.25 inches
• Mile Range: 10 miles
• Voltage: 6VDC

Here we have another Zareba ESP10M-Z solar-powered fence charger. It’s pretty similar to our best pick.

However, this one is designed for a bit larger property.

The main disadvantage of Zareba ESP5M Z was that it covered small electric fences.

Therefore, the Zareba ESP10M Z is the perfect alternative for bigger electric fences.

Furthermore, like the younger brother, the Zareba ESP10M Z can run for two weeks without sun. This is genius if you are living in a challenging climate.

However, this Zareba ESP10M Z solar electric fence charger is unique because it has a built-in solar panel.

Most solar fence chargers have separate panels, so this design is not something you would often see.

It also releases up to 0.15 joules, so it’s great for mid-sized animals.

A common problem with solar fence chargers is the complex installation. However, that is not the situation with this one.

The Zareba ESP10M Z comes with a mounting bracket in the back, making the entire installation process more effortless!

In addition, you can always rely on the Zareba ESP10M Z as it has an indicator light, notifying you when the fence charger is at work.

Overall, this solar fence charger is an excellent investment! It’s an efficient and eco-friendly solution for your more extensive property.

#6. Gallagher S12 Solar Electric Fence Charger – Best Portable Solar Fence Charger

• Brand: Gallagher
• Dimensions: 5.7 x 5 x 6.7 inches
• Mile Range: 4 miles
• Voltage: 0.12 stored joule output

The best solar fence chargers can be a terrific economical solution. However, they can be pretty cumbersome, can’t they?

If you are looking for something that can fit in the palm of your hand yet powerful the entire electric fence, you have found the perfect solar fence charger!

This Gallagher S12 solar electric fence charger is lightweight, easy to install on the fence, and comes with a warranty!

However, before we list all the best features of this solar fence charger, we need to clarify.

First, this fence charger will be suitable only for smaller fences that measure 4 miles.

The majority compares it to the Zareba ESP5M-Z 5-Mile Solar Low Impedance Electric Fence Charger, and let me tell you; they are not wrong.

The two also have a similar joules output and are suitable for smaller fences.

It also comes with a built-in solar panel and an internal lithium battery that lasts for a long time.

Additionally, the installation is a breeze! You need to connect the solar fence charger to a steel rod, and you can use it on electric fences.

Lastly, the solar fence charger is highly efficient and can even collect solar power in low-light conditions.

#7. Pets And Livestock Solar Powered Fence Charger Energizer Panel – Best 10-Day Hybrid Solar Fence Charger

• Brand: Pet & Livestock HQ Store
• Dimensions: 13.35 x 10.79 x 4.49 inches
• Mile Range: 2 miles
• Voltage: 2.4 watts

We have selected a particular product for those who live in rainy areas that rarely see the sun’s rays!

This solar fence charger comes from Pet and Livestock HQ store and is a budget-friendly choice you will love!

The best thing about the solar-powered fence charger is that it requires minimal solar power to charge fully.

In addition, it’s able to charge in low-light thanks to the high-capacity storage.

However, don’t let this doubt you of its ability to power the fence!

A solar fence charger is a powerful unit that can protect your livestock for at least ten days in low light.

It uses the Panasonic 7.4V/3.4AH lithium-ion battery that makes this fence charger reliable under challenging conditions.

This is an excellent solar electric fence charger like the previous pick if you want something portable and convenient.

In addition, the dimensions of this fence energizer are perfect if you don’t want to deal with cumbersome units.

However, an obvious downside to this electric fencing charger is the mile coverage. It can cover only 2 miles of the fence, limiting your options.

Contrary to the typical powerful solar fence chargers, this fence energizer releases fast pulses that will scare off intruders.

Therefore, there is no risk of a severe electric shock.

#8. Premier Solar IntelliShock 60 Fence Energizer – Easy To Install

• Brand: Premier
• Dimensions: Not specified
• Mile Range: 1 mile
• Voltage: 6,000 volts

Lastly, we have the Premier Solar Intellischock solar-powered electric fence charger.

Out of all solar-powered electric fence chargers, this one is the most expensive, so let’s see if the price is worth it.

Like the Gallagher S12 Solar Electric Fence Charger, this solar fence charger can be a portable unit! It’s lightweight and convenient to use, so you can easily install it.

Compared to the Zareba fence charger, this one delivers more power.

It delivers around 0.60 joules, and it has a better battery capacity. So you can use it in low-light weather conditions during troublesome weather.

What we like the most is that the brand offers you a two-year warranty! However, there is a twist to this situation.

The battery only holds a 30-day guarantee, and knowing batteries, you should not expect a long-lasting use.

The manufacturer says that this solar-powered charger’s battery does not withstand harsh winters.

On the other hand, installation is the easiest we have seen so far! It does not require any mounting, installation to a steel rod, or alike!

All you need to do is place the fence charger on the ground! That’s it!

Once you have set it on the ground, the fence charger can be further adjusted. Have it face the sun and enjoy the free energy!

Buyer’s Guide

Picking the best solar electric fence charger is not that easy, especially if this is your first time doing so.

With that in consideration, here are a few qualities you should consider before your purchase.

1. Range

Not all solar fence chargers work the same.

For example, some can power up to 10 miles of the fence, while others are only powerful for a 5-mile fence. In that case, you should always check the mile range first.

Remember, they are not a universal product, and if you get one with inadequate capacity, it might as well result in money down the drain!

Make sure you measure out your fence and the number of wires so you can determine the range you need.

2. Voltage

Next up, the voltage!

Sadly, many people reject using solar chargers as they think their power delivery is not as powerful as electric chargers.

However, solar fence chargers may just end up surprising you!

They are an excellent choice for those who care for livestock but often deal with animal intruders.

Solar chargers are a safer choice that keeps the wild animals away by delivering electric pulses throughout the fence.

The voltage is usually chosen based on the type of animal you want to keep away.

That being said, larger animals such as goats and predators will need at least 5.000 volts to be stopped.

Medium-sized animals such as cows will need around 3,000 volts, while smaller ones will require 1,000-2,000 volts.

Joules are also referred to as watts. They indicate the strength of the electric shock.

Since solar fence chargers are made to only shock and scare the animal’s way, they figured out a smart system.

The electric shock that is emitted through the fence should not exceed over 5 jouls. Anything higher than this can severely harm the animal.

3. Look for Extra Features

Not all fence energizer models have these fancy features, but the ones that do are definitely worth paying for more!

The features include an indicator light, performance meter, battery display, etc.

If you wish to invest smartly and not have to worry about when the battery will die, it’s always good to pay more for this kind of feature.

4. Warranty

Warranty is one of the most necessary criteria when investing in an excellent solar fence charger.

Unfortunately, not all manufacturers include one, but the ones that do make sure you have a sound mind during purchase!

Most chargers will have at least two years of warranty, and honestly, you should not settle down for less.

This will give you enough time to test the unit out in two seasons. However, batteries are the troublesome ones.

Some chargers will include a long warranty, but they give only a 30-day guarantee on batteries.

In this case, check if the unit you have picked out has rechargeable or replaceable batteries.

5. Weed Conditions & Wire Materials

Did you know that excessive weed around the fence line can have a negative impact on the voltage of the charger?

That’s right.

So, if you want to ensure your charger is giving its best performance, install it somewhere where there isn’t strong vegetation.

Additionally, you should also be careful about the fence wire material.

In the majority of cases, steel fences are the best.

However, if heavy weeds surround your fence, you should find a charger with a high joules output.

Other types of fences, such as poly wires, tapes, and ropes, combined with heavy weed surroundings, could all lead to ineffective voltage.

6. Weather-Proof Materials

If you find a charger made from weather-proof material, you have hit the jackpot!

Chargers like this are built to withstand harsh autumn days, heavy rain, scorching sun days, and wintertime.

In this case, the charger should be made from UV-resistant materials that do not allow damage to the unit.

How Do Solar Fence Chargers Work & How to Use One?

Solar fence chargers work pretty simply.

They include a small photovoltaic panel that collects all solar energy and transfers it into the stored battery energy.

Furthermore, the battery delivers current to the energizer, which sends it further to the electric fence.

Also, they are easy to use!

Step 1: Charge it

You need to charge the battery for at least three days before using it for starters.

After that, many solar panel chargers can run for two weeks without direct sunlight.

Once the battery is recharged fully, the solar fence charger should be turned on and run basic tests with an indicator light.

Step 2: Mounting

The majority of solar fence charger models are easy to mount.

Some of them will include mounting brackets so you can quickly hook them on the fence.

However, you should avoid placing them on the ground or in the shade.

Step 3: Connecting the charger

Next up is the connection!

Usually, this will include connecting the wire to the hook of the fence charger. After that, activate the solar fence charger.

Types of Solar Fence Chargers

There are three types of solar panels: continuous output fence chargers, low-impedance chargers, and solid-state fence chargers.

A continuous output fence charger is excellent if you have a smaller property such as paddocks and dairy stalls.

These chargers work on a continuous energy delivery instead of delivering pulses of energy on the fence.

Because they deliver medium electricity shocks, they are not safe to have around children.

In addition, the wires are constantly charged, so you never know when the charger may go off.

Low-impedance chargers are one of the most popular solar panel chargers. They deliver less resistance and allow more power to be pushed through the wire.

However, they are much safer for humans while keeping intruders away.

These chargers are nowadays used to keep more giant animals away and should be a good choice for those with the bigger property.

Moreover, they are revolutionary in that the power delivery does not interfere with weeds and tall grass around the fence.

That being said, they offer good protection for abandoned farms and heavy vegetation areas.

Finally, a solid-state fence charger is terrific at keeping away small animals with little to no fur.

They deliver a small amperage shock which is good enough to scare away the intruders’ animals.

Solid-state fence chargers are also better for low-to-moderate weed conditions and smaller properties.

It delivers medium voltage output, so it’s not as strong as a continuous output fence charger.

However, you can use these chargers if you have an aluminum or steel fence enclosure.

Pros & Cons of Using Solar Fence Chargers

When deciding to invest in such a purchase, it’s always good to know all the pros and cons before making a final decision.

1. Advantages

a. Economical solution

One of the biggest advantages of solar electric fence chargers is economical!

An electric fence will rely on electric energy, which can further cause high electricity bills for your entire household.

Contrary to this, solar electric fence chargers are a cost-effective solution.

In addition, they will deliver the same outcome as electric chargers while relying on solar energy.

Also, solar electric fence chargers do not need nearly as much maintenance as electric chargers! You can even go on a mini-holiday without worrying about the fence charger at home!

b. Eco-friendly

Solar fence chargers are one of the best eco-friendly solutions!

They rely on solar energy to operate and are nowhere nearly as dangerous for the environment as electric chargers are.

Renewable energy is free, and we are all here for it!

c. Easy Installation

A solar fence charger is much easier to install than the rest of the chargers.

They run on batteries, so you can always replace them with new ones or recharge the existing pair.

They come with mounting brackets that easily hook on the fence. No wires are getting in the way of this solar panel!

d. Perfect solution for large properties

Many customers think that solar-powered electric fence chargers are weaker than regular electric chargers. However, the situation could not be any more different!

Nowadays, the electric fence market is filled with solar-powered chargers that can power up to 100 acres of land!

They are excellent for those living in remote areas, as well as for owners with bigger properties.

Moreover, they are easier to install as they are all wireless!

2. Disadvantages

a. Always relies on the sun

The most apparent downside to solar fence chargers is that they will always rely on the sun to work.

If you live in a rainy climate, you may not be able to use solar chargers at all.

Where Should a Solar Electric Fence Charger Face?

Many avoid using solar fence chargers as they often think they need direct sunlight to operate.

Although this is the case at times, it’s not always necessary to have a solar fence charger face the sun.

So, how do you know you have set it up correctly?

For starters, place your solar fence charger without trees or natural shade.

This will make it work a lot easier with different weather conditions, even if you have sun only for a couple of hours.

Additionally, keep it away from animals! They can easily damage the solar fence charger, and after that, it’s no good at servicing you!

Also, you should install a solar fence charger near the rods.

The unit should be in the middle of the fence to distribute the energy equally.

Solar Fence Charger vs. Electric Charger

Contrary to a solar fence charger, an electric charger will either work on A/C or battery-operated.

The first type of electric fence chargers will need to be connected to the outlet that takes power from the grid.

Although A/C fence chargers are less expensive and easier to maintain, they require a constant and reliable electricity source.

Solar fence chargers are a smarter option if you live in a sunny and warm climate.

However, if you already have daily sun rays on your property, why not take advantage?

Additionally, they use a battery that collects solar energy and delivers it to the fence.

Installation is a lot easier with a solar fence charger as it will not require any wires. However, you will need to place it to face the sun and be careful of the shades.

Although a solar fence charger is more expensive than regular electric ones, it will initially result in fewer electricity bills.

The low-operation cost is one of its most significant advantages! It’s also more reliable as the majority include rechargeable batteries.

But, a solar fence charger will always need solar energy to work. This could be a potential deal-breaker for many.

FAQs

How long do solar electric fence chargers last?

All solar electric fence chargers are unique, so none of them works the same or lasts as long.

For instance, our best pick Zareba ESP5M-Z 5-Mile Solar Low Impedance Electric Fence Charger will last for two weeks without solar energy.

Do solar fence chargers need batteries?

Yes, solar fence chargers need batteries to work properly.

Batteries are responsible for soaking up all of the solar energy and transferring it to the fence when needed.

Additionally, you should pick a solar fence charger with a bigger battery capacity.

Logically, the bigger the capacity, the more power it will absorb.

What size solar panel do I need for the electric fence?

The solar panel size is an individual preference. However, it will generally depend on the size of your fence and the size of the energizer.

You will need around 10 watts of energy on the solar panel to power one joule of energy from the energizer.

Additionally, the energizer must be compatible with the battery and be approximately the same size.

If you have a bigger fence to power, you may even consider wiring more than one solar panel.

Does a solar fence charger need direct sunlight?

Not all solar fence chargers need direct sunlight to work. Well, at least not the advanced and efficient ones.

Nowadays, solar electric fence chargers are made to absorb minimal direct sunlight but can fully charge the battery that will last for days.

How do you store a solar fence charger?

For starters, disconnect the electric fence energizer from the fence.

Then, you should allow for the panel to charge in the sunlight at least two hours before you disconnect leads from the batteries.

Pack the unit up and store it in a temperature-controlled storage area.

Final Winner

I bet that by now, you have guessed who our top winner is!

One of the most reliable choices for protecting your livestock and cattle is the Zareba ESP5M-Z 5-Mile Solar Low Impedance Electric Fence Charger.

Furthermore, it has an affordable price range considering the quality of the unit!

The charger is built with the latest technology of a low-impedance system that proves to be one of the safest choices.

The only people who would miss out on this fantastic unit are those with fences longer than 5 miles!

However, you have found your ultimate money-saving charger for the proud owners of the small-sized property!

Conclusion

Protecting your cattle from pesky intruders is a must!

Sometimes we have to be cruel to protect the livestock, so we install electric fences that keep animal intruders away.

However, if you don’t want to use standard electric charges that can get too powerful, your next best choice should be solar chargers.

They work in the same way but are not as cruel to the environment. Plus, saving a couple of hundred on the electricity bill never hurt anybody!

Lastly, it’s important to train your livestock and cattle to stay away from the fence!

Even the best solar fence charger cannot make a difference between the intruder and the animal you take care of.

To avoid unwanted accidents, make sure you take the time of your day to train your animals before purchasing the best solar fence charger.

These were our solar fence charger reviews that brushed upon the top 8 choices you should invest in!