This message is from: Janet McNally <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] > We have had terrible luck with a solar fencer. No matter what we did, the > fence would short out and drain the power. The fence shorts out on: snow > bridging the gap between the post and wire, bugs bridging the gap, weeds and > grass, anything that falls on the fence.We eventually had to bring power up > to the fence and use the plug in type fencer. > > Suzan >
Hi, I've been a lurker on this list. As a new Fjord owner, I have not had much to contribute, but alas this topic I can speak on! I have a few hundred sheep and operate up to 6 fencer energizers. Two are plug in models and 4 are battery operated. I've tested numerous solar powered fencers, and for sheep, none are 'hot' enough to do the job. But there is an explanation that goes beyond how the battery is charged for the problem mentioned above. First check the obvious, it may be the solar pannel is too small for the job. Adequately sized solar pannels are not cheap, and some of the cheap solar units found in catalogs are underpowered. A good solar pannel will cost over $300. But there is another possible problem. Some of the newer generation energizers (the unit that sends the charge out on the wire) are suppose to be 'smart' and send more energy out on the wire if something is touching (grounding) the wire. The idea is that minimal power is used when no animal is touching the fence, and then more power is sent out if the animal touches it, or if some vegetation is shorting out the fence. Thus assuring the animal recieves a shock. My own experience with these type of fencers is that they run the battery down -extreemly- fast when weather conditions or vegetation cause a short. Hence every unit that I have tried like that has failed, and I will now only use those low impedence units that send the same amount of energy out no matter what the weed load is. My personal favorite has been speed rite, but Gallaghar has been a good unit for others. I simply recharge the battery every 10 days. My new Fjord was purchased to move hay for sheep and cattle. I am in the process of training her team mate to pull. My perspective on price was a little different than those mentioned earlier. I basically compared the purchase to a tractor. Either I purchased a tractor, or put together a team. Factors that were extreemly important to me is willingness to please, quiet unflappable temperment, and lots of prior handling so that if we get into an akward situation the horses would trust me and remain calm. Sweet temperment that can win over a reluctant husband is a big plus. I purchased my mare from Patti Walter, who did a wonderful job training her. IMO the Fjord holds more value because of its unique roll that no other breed can fill. large enough to work, yet small enough to ride, with a wonderful disposition. Janet McNally http://www.pinenet.com/~tamarack/homepage.html
