Even the best energiser won’t work without the right setup. Many farmers overlook small but essential components, leading to weak shocks or a completely dead fence. This guide will walk you through everything you need to have before powering up your energiser, whether it’s mains-powered, battery-operated, or solar.
An electric fence works by sending pulses of energy through the fence wire. When an animal touches the wire, the circuit completes through the ground, delivering a short, sharp shock. For this to happen, your energiser needs a proper earth connection and secure links to the fence. Missing just one component can make your system ineffective. Which is why we like to provide you with this easy checklist.
Mains Energiser (230V)
Essential Components
- Earth stake(s) + earth cable
These complete the circuit so the fence delivers a shock when touched. Without a proper earth system, the energiser won’t work effectively.
- Fence connectors
Clips or cables that connect the energiser to the fence wires.
- (Optional) Lead-out cable
A heavy-duty cable that carries power from the energiser to the fence over longer distances.
Battery Energiser (9 V or 12 V)
Essential Components
- Suitable battery
Choose a 9 V or 12 V battery depending on your energiser type.
- Battery leads/clips
Ring or crocodile connectors to attach the battery to the energiser.
- Earth stake(s) + earth cable
Completes the circuit for proper shock delivery.
- Fence connectors
Clips or cables between energiser and fence wires.
- (Optional) Lead-out cable
For powering fences located away from the energiser.
Solar Energiser
Essential Components
- Earth stake(s) + earth cable
Essential for completing the circuit.
- Fence connectors
Connect the energiser to the fence wires.
- (Optional) Lead-out cable
Useful for longer distances between energiser and fence.
Pro Tip
Always check your earth system first if your fence isn’t working properly. A poor earth connection is the most common cause of weak shocks.