Monthly Archives: May 2020

How the Electric Fence Works

Close up wall mounted high voltage electric security fence instalation isolated against blue sky background

Learn More About the Electric Fence

An electric fence is good to have to keep livestock in place while keeping wild animals and other creatures out. As electric fences use a shock upon impact system it’s important to only have trained professionals set up or maintain your electric fence when you’re looking for fencing services. There are numerous options out there as far as modifying your electric fence depending on the distance you need the fence to cover and the use you will have for it. With a professional fence company, you’ll be able to confer your property specifications and get the best recommendations on materials, distance, and power levels necessary for use. Here is some general information surrounding an electric fence that may prove of use to you.

How effective is electric fencing?

An electric fence can be effective in keeping strays and other wild animals away by delivering a shock that is highly unpleasant but not lethal. The effects that the creature experiences will actually depend on a number of factors such as volts, amps and wiring. The voltage that is legally allowed to pass-through is capped at 10,000. 

How much voltage is in an electric fence?

An electric fence will have a voltage range that can vary from 2,000 to 10,000 volts with 10,000 being the maximum permitted by international regulations. The amount of voltage chosen will depend on the distance that the fence can be shocked up to with the desired power of the shock.

Can an electric fence kill you?

An electric fence is not dangerous since the amplification or current being sent through wires is very low. It’s the amps that could ultimately kill and with an electric fence you’ll usually see it at a low setting of around 120 milliamps. That’s why electric fencing can get away with a higher voltage. Think of it this way, a 220-volt shock would hurt just the same as a 10,000-volt shock as long as the amps or currents are the same. It’s therefore essential to have your amps lower when installing an electric fence.

Does an electric fence use a lot of electricity?

On average an electric fence will only see a slight increase in electricity bills at around R15-R20 rand extra per month. Overall, the increase in monthly bills is not substantial but low.

How many ground rods do I need for electric fence?

Around two or three grounding rods positioned at 10 feet apart near the starting point of the fence is typically what’s used for most fences and electric fences. Keep in mind to have these ground rounds far away from telephone lines in particular as well as other utilities that can interfere.

How long do electric fences last?

You may be able to have your electric fence last 10 years with nonpermanent braided rope or electric rope. A good quality conductor or electric ropes made of stainless steel can have it last longer as well.

Secure electric fencing installed on residential wall and a blurred roof of a house in the background with yellow danger sign that warns about elecrical shock in Afrikaans, English and IsiXhoza languages

What do you need for an electric fence?

  • Fence energizer
  • Earth stakes
  • Fence wire or tape
  • Insulators
  • End strainers
  • Fence warning signs
  • Connection bolts
  • Fence posts

Does electric fence need to be a loop?

An electric fence doesn’t have to make a complete loop. There are advantages and disadvantages to any scenario so keep that in mind. With a continuous loop, for example, you’ll have an increased voltage on the fence line as power is pushed in both directions versus in one as you would see with an open loop.

Does rain affect electric fence?

When it rains you may lose some voltage with your electric fence, especially when insulators aren’t as they should be. An example of insulators not being good is with them touching weeds and brush or touching a wood fence post which is normally non-conductive. It’s important to cut the brush. Another tip is to look at a bigger fence charger if you have a small one.

Can an electric fence cause a fire?

An electric fence will usually be turned off when there are extreme fire dangers active or there are Total Fire Bans. This is because sparks can jump from one wire to the next when there is dry vegetation around which may lead to the start of a fire.

Get Into Contact With Your Local Fencing Company For Assistance

When you’re in need of an electric fence for your property rely on your local fencing company to get you set up and taken care of properly with regulations in mind. You’ll be able to ensure that you have the proper wiring, post, and proper voltage and amps when you speak with a technician that is certified and trained with experience to back them up. Electrical use with fencing is important to get correct in order for the shock to be moderate and not harmful to the subject that attempts to go through. Ultimately, an electric fence will be able to keep any wild creatures away while keeping your own animals in when necessary. Reach out to your local fencing company to learn more.

If you’re interested in an electric fence in Crowley and Fort Worth, TX call 817-948-4503 with Ware Fencing!