Solar E- Fenceing

[Leo1]

I'm going to be putting a solar powered electric fence around my yard for added chicken protection and garden defense. I'm trying to decide on brands. I have gathered that Gallagher is the best, but it's out of stock near me and costs $329. The other one I've read good reviews on is the F shock that I would be able to get on Amazon and costs $110. So either way it would be awhile, but clearly the F shock is MUCH less expensive. What I'm wondering is if the Gallagher is worth all that extra cash. Anyone have any relevant experience? The one's available near me seem to have terrible reviews and are the Zereba and Dare.
Thanks!!
Luanne

 

[theoldchick]

We use Parmac. The only problems we have ever had is the battery on the older unit (20 years old) needs to be replaced very 2 years. The new model (6 years old) is still using the original battery.

We have the expensive models because we use them for large acreage, and need something to be able to shock through weeds and dry conditions.

Since you are doing a smaller area, you don't need the most expensive model out there. The smaller model should work for you. I was told when I purchased my Parmacs is to make sure the unit is properly grounded, especially in drought conditions. We had to use 6 foot long metal posts pounded in the ground 3 feet apart, to electrify our pasture fence during extreme drought conditions.

If you need to save money, the plug in models work pretty well. We still have a Sears model (70 years old) we use in a situation like yours. We have it in a 5 gallon bucket whose bottom is nailed to a fence post to keep it dry. Holes are drilled in the side to allow for the plug in cord, and the ground and hot connection. Despite the age of the Sears model, that thing will about make you express your bladder if you touch it, and had been known to start brush fires if the wire connected to it touches dry leaves or grass.

 

[Leo1]

Thanks! I hadn't seen that brand; it looks better than the others from what I'm reading. It will charge more fence than I need, but perhaps at some point I'll need to do more so that's not really a negative. SO in your experience does it give enough of a jolt to keep fox and raccoons out? Possibly a coyote, too, I swear I saw one the other day. Though, he's less of a concern, since he can't get to my girls and I don't foresee him destroying my garden for fun like the nasty raccoons do.

 

[theoldchick]

Keeps my dog from climbing out of the fence.