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Parmak Solar Pak 6 (Model DF-SP-LI), Low Impedance Electric Fence Charger, UL Listed, 0.2 Joules
Parmak’s weatherproof and portable Solar Pak 6 is a good choice for powering a horse fence surrounding small to medium pastures and other enclosures where grounding conditions are reasonably good and the anticipated weed burden is light. Under perfect conditions the Solar Pak 6 can charge 25 miles of electric fence consisting of a single 12.5 gauge steel wire. The unit includes a solar panel and comes with Parmak’s 6-volt AGM battery inside its case. Voltage data: Parmak reports that the Solar Pak 6 will maintain 9000 volts (more than enough to shock any animal) across an open circuit. It also notes, however, that even a minor problem can change the situation. For example, a mild weed burden providing a 500-ohm path to the ground will reduce the line voltage to 2650 volts, not much more than the 2000 volt minimum needed to reliably shock horses. The Solar Pak 6 is rated by us at about 0.2 joules. Other animals: This electric fence charger can conveniently be used to contain dogs and also to protect gardens from dogs and smaller wildlife such as woodchucks, raccoons, and rabbits. If one uses a baited fence it can also serve to exclude deer, because in this case only 2500 volts are needed to shock the incoming animal on its nose or tongue. General data: The Solar Pak 6 will operate for 21 days in total darkness. The unit comes enclosed in a case with a lifetime manufacturer’s guarantee against rust and uses a sealed, rechargeable 6-volt solar battery (item 01-17) inside the case as its intermediate power source. The unit, which features a redesigned solar panel (item 01-16) and built-in performance meter, comes with instructions and a two-year manufacturer’s warranty against defects and lightning damage. Solar panel and 6-volt AGM battery included. Estimated battery life is 3 to 5 years so long as the charger is operated continuously (inactive storage will cause the battery to discharge and will reduce its life). The battery should not be allowed to freeze, but so long as the battery is fully charged it can resist freezing temperatures as low as minus 70ºF (a fully discharged battery can freeze at 15ºF).