How to Repair an Electric Fence Energizer

An electric fence energizer doesn’t last forever, and you will need to have it quickly repaired or replaced when it inevitably breaks down or its malfunction can create problems. However, having the charger replaced is easier and more cost-effective than trying to repair it, which is also a time-consuming task. All it involves is some simple instructions and basic tools. In the following article, we tried to break it down nice and easy for any DIYer willing to take on the challenge.

Step 1 - Check with the Tester

It’s good to check the energizer first so that you do not waste money in buying a replacement if it's not needed. Turn off the energizer, and disconnect the fence from it. Then, connect it to an electric fence tester to see it gets any readings. If there isn't any, the problem could be a corroded terminal, AC circuit breaker, dead batteries, or a blown input circuit fuse. In the event that you are strapped for cash, you can try simple solutions like cleaning the terminals or replacing the batteries before you replace the entire device.

Step 2 - Check Fence Surroundings

Before assuming that your charger has gone bad, walk about the length of the fence and check for trouble spots. Any downed or broken wire or loose debris hanging off the fencing can all ground the current, rendering the fence useless. Troubled spots on the fence must be repaired or cleaned up first before attempting to replace the energizer.

Step 3 - Put Safety First

Always make sure that safety comes first. Unplug the source of electricity to your electric fence, and disconnect the ground wires that feed into your controller box. If something should happen and an electric current runs back into the wires, you’ll avoid getting shocked.

Step 4 - Disconnect the Hot Wire

Take your screwdriver and loosen the hot wire’s nuts from the mounting screw on the fence energizer unit. Push away the wire from the hot bolt and put back the nut.

Step 5 - Replace Energizer Unit

Unscrew any support or mount brackets from the fence or wall. Scrutinize the mounts for signs of wear such as rust and/or missing screws. Clean away rust and grab some replacement screws, if needed, before reinstalling.

Now, take the new energizer unit and place back into the charger. Place the brackets back on to secure the unit.

Step 6 - Reverse Process Installation

Doing the reverse of what was done previously, attach the hot wire to the new charger; then, attach the ground wire with the electricity still turned off.

Step 7 - Turn Fence Back On

Reconnect the energizer to the fence and do a careful inspection to make sure everything is squared away. Look out for any signs of electric surge or burnouts, and be sensitive to any flashes of electricity or flames that could spark. Also, keep your nose working to sniff out a burnt smell coming from the fence or the area around the fence. If you encounter any of these things, disconnect the energizer again immediately and work to find and fix the problem.