Know How To Put Up an Electric Fence

Electric fences transmit current across wires run between posts. An electrified fence can be an effective way to contain domestic animals and livestock that is more affordable and faster to put up than a conventional fence and tends to last longer. Find out how to install an electric fence of any length or height.

Plan Ahead for Fencing

Start by planning which area you plan to fence. Take detailed and accurate measurements, calculating the length of each run and the number of posts and length of wire necessary to confine animals to a particular area. Fence posts can be spaced anywhere from 10 feet all the way up to 50 feet apart with the use of stays. The height of the fence and the length of wire you will need depends on the height and habits of the animals you need to keep out or in.

Get Electric Fence Supplies

Installing electric fence can be easier than putting up other types of permanent fencing. Essential supplies include a solar or AC electric charger, wire, grounding posts and fence posts. Additional bracing hardware is necessary for corners and gates, and each post will require mounted insulators to hold wire in place.

Install the Fencing

Drive fence posts around the perimeter of an area using a string to mark a straight line. A post-hole digger or pile driver can be helpful for inserting grounding and fence posts. Fence posts and corner posts carry wire between grounding posts. Once posts are up, wire must be run through connector clamps starting at the furthest point away from the charger. Use a cable puller or ratchet-style tensioner to pull the wire taut.

Check the Current

Turn on the charger and test the line with a voltmeter. Most lines read between 6,000 and 10,000 volts unconnected. Connect a jumper wire from the top line of the fence to the charger and the charger on. Read the voltage at the furthest point away from the charger. A much lower reading may indicate interference or short-circuiting.

All the maintenance electric fencing needs involves checking the current and condition of the wire and periodically clearing away growth. Animals frequently come into contact with unelectrified fence materials, which causes these fences to wear down faster. An electric fence discourages animals from approaching and making contact. Even if the flow of current through a fence is temporarily turned off, domestic animals or livestock will be less likely to test the boundaries.