How to Connect and Install an Electric Fence Energizer

Installing an electric fence energizer correctly is the key to a powerful and reliable livestock fencing system. Whether you’re building a small pen for goats or a long perimeter for cattle, the energizer is the “heart” of your fence — turning normal wires into an active electric barrier.
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through how to connect, install, and test your energizer properly. We’ll also introduce the Lydite range of energizers — including AC plug-in, solar, and dual-purpose fence chargers — and show how they fit with different fencing setups.

1. Understanding the Electric Fence Energizer

The energizer (also called a charger) sends controlled electrical pulses through your electric fence wire, polywire, tape, or fence netting.
When an animal touches the fence, it receives a short, harmless shock that acts as a strong mental barrier.
Types of Lydite Energizers:

1. AC Energizers (LFL101-1 Series) – For farms with nearby power outlets, covering up to 8 acres.
2. Solar Energizers (LFR Series, e.g., LFR050) – Use solar panels to power the system, ideal for remote pastures up to 50 acres.
3. Dual-Purpose Energizers (LFP Series) – Work with both 12V batteries and 110–240V AC input, providing flexibility.
4. High-Power Solar Models (ADS9000) – Designed for large ranches, up to 150 km of fencing.

2. Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before installation, prepare these tools and accessories:

1. Lydite energizer (AC, solar, or dual-purpose)
2. Electric fence wire / polywire / tape / or fence netting
3. Grounding rod(s) and grounding wire
4. Fence tester
5. Insulators and connectors
6. Fence posts (fiberglass, plastic, or pigtail types)
7. Safety gloves and rubber boots
   💡 Tip: Always match the energizer size to the total fence length and animal type.

3. Step 1 – Selecting the Installation Site

1. Choose a dry, open area protected from flooding.
2. Mount your energizer on a wall or post about 1 meter above the ground.
3. Avoid placing it near metallic objects or water tanks.
4. For solar models, make sure the solar panel faces direct sunlight for at least 6 hours a day.

4. Step 2 – Installing the Grounding System

A reliable ground system is essential.

• For small fences (under 8 acres), one 1.5–2 m galvanized rod is enough.
• For medium or large systems, use 2–3 rods spaced 3–5 meters apart.
• Connect them using insulated grounding wire to the “Earth” terminal of the energizer.
• Keep rods moist or add saltwater in dry soil to improve conductivity.

5. Step 3 – Connecting the Fence Line

1. Attach the positive terminal (Fence Output) of the energizer to the top wire or conductive strand of the fence using a stainless steel clip.
2. If using fence netting, connect the stainless-steel connector directly to the top horizontal line.
3. For multi-roll nets, connect all rolls with their metal clips to ensure full current flow.
4. Make sure the fence wires are not touching the ground, posts, or vegetation.

6. Step 4 – Power Connection

Depending on your energizer type:
AC Energizers (LFL Series): Plug the adapter into a 230V outlet.
Solar Energizers (LFR / ADS Series): Connect to the internal or external 12V battery; the solar panel will recharge automatically.
Dual Purpose (LFP Series): Choose either AC adapter or 12V battery depending on your location.
 

7. Step 5 – Testing the Fence Voltage

Turn on the energizer.
Use a digital fence tester to check voltage at various points.
Ideal voltage: 3000–8000V depending on animal type.
Minimum acceptable: 2000V.
If voltage drops significantly, recheck grounding and wire joints.

8. Step 6 – Maintenance and Safety

Inspect the fence weekly.
Trim vegetation touching wires or netting.
Check insulators for cracks or rust.
For solar systems, clean panels monthly.
Replace worn connectors or posts as needed.

9. Compatible Fence Accessories and Materials

Lydite energizers are designed to work with all major fence materials and posts:
Electric Fence Polywire – Ideal for long runs; flexible and easy to spool.
Electric Fence Polyrope – Thicker conductor for horses or large livestock.
Electric Fence Tape – High visibility, perfect for horse fencing.
Electric Fence Netting – Great for sheep, goats, and poultry.
Fiberglass Fence Posts – Lightweight and durable for permanent setups.
Plastic Fence Posts / Pigtail Posts / Metal Posts – Used for temporary or portable fencing.
Insulators and Clips – Prevent current leakage and secure wires firmly.
 

10. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Weak grounding system.
Using a low-power energizer for long fences.
Allowing grass to touch the wire.
Loose wire connections.
Forgetting to test voltage regularly.

11. Conclusion

A properly installed electric fence energizer ensures safety, efficiency, and peace of mind.
For small farms, use LFL101-1 (AC model).
For portable solar setups, choose LFR050.
For flexible dual systems, go with LFP30.
And for high-performance, long-distance control, rely on ADS9000.
Lydite provides complete fencing solutions — energizers, polywire, tape, netting, posts, and accessories — trusted by farmers worldwide.
Contact us today to find the right setup for your land.