Molly Ayala
Electric fences are used to keep animals away from the fence and require regular checks to ensure they are working properly. The installation process involves setting up posts, wires, and gates, with the option to add electric wires to an existing non-electric fence. The grounding circuit is critical to the electric fence's proper functioning, and it is important to have a well-grounded fence controller to avoid high electric shock currents. The type of fence charger or energizer used will determine the specific installation requirements, with options including 110-volt plug-in, 6-12 volt battery-powered, and solar-powered variants.
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What You'll Learn
Grounding the circuit
Firstly, it is important to install at least one ground rod. The recommended length is 6 ft. with a wire gauge of 10-14, and it should be placed within 20 ft. of the fence controller. Galvanized or copper rods are preferred. If possible, choose areas with constant moisture for ground rod installation. You can use a ground rod clamp to attach the insulated ground wire to the rod, ensuring that the clamp securely bites into the rod and wire.
To check if your grounding system is adequate, use a digital voltmeter. Place the meter probe on the ground wire or rods, and extend the meter lead wire as far as possible. Attach a wire probe, and insert it into the soil. If the voltage reading is over 300 volts, your system is inadequate, and you will need to install more ground rods. Generally, you will need one ground rod for each joule of output from your energizer.
To avoid stray voltage, do not install ground rods within 50 ft. of a utility ground rod, buried telephone line, or water line. Stray voltage can be identified by pulsing shocks from water sources, or if you hear the pulse of the fence controller in electronic devices.
It is important to ensure that the controller is properly grounded to reduce the risk of electrical shock. AC line-operated controllers come with a polarized 2-blade attachment plug for use on a 120-volt circuit. Insert the plug into an appropriate outlet, and if it does not fit, consult an electrician. If you need to use an extension cord, make sure it is polarized.
Finally, connect the ground wire to the ground terminal and ground rods using an insulated ground wire.
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Using a fence tester
Electric fence testers are used to determine the correct output and voltage for checking fence exciters and batteries. They are also used to check the system regularly and identify any faults. Here are the steps to follow when using a fence tester:
Step 1: Identify the Ground Wire
Firstly, identify the ground wire. Refer to your fence's owner's manual or the signage on the charger to determine the correct wire. If your fence model does not use a ground wire, simply skip this step and move on to the next one.
Step 2: Touch the Probe to the Ground Wire or Soil
If your fence has a ground wire, touch the metal probe of the fence tester to it. If not, stick the metal end of the probe several inches/centimetres deep into the soil. Ensure you are not touching the metal tip with your fingers during the test.
Step 3: Touch the Prong to the Charged Wire(s)
With the probe still touching the ground wire or inserted into the soil, touch the metal prong on the tester to one of the charged wires. The digital readout on the tester should display a voltage reading.
Step 4: Compare the Voltage Reading
Compare the voltage reading on the tester to the recommended voltage for your specific fence model. This information can typically be found in the owner's manual or on signage attached to the charger. Electric fence voltages usually range from 2,000 to 10,000 volts, depending on their intended use.
Step 5: Repeat the Test
Repeat the voltage test on each fence wire. If the reading is within the acceptable range, your fence is functioning properly. If the reading is above or below the recommended range, there is an issue with the fence, and it should be serviced.
Additional Tips:
- If you do not get any reading on the tester, ensure that it is turned on. If the tester is on and there is still no reading, it indicates that the fence has no charge.
- Repeat the test at regular intervals along the fence, moving closer to the charger each time. This helps to identify weak spots or areas with low voltage.
- If you are using a non-contact voltmeter, stand within 5 feet of the electric fence and point the blinking tip of the voltmeter towards it. If the wire lacks a charge, the voltmeter will not light up or beep.
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Installing fence posts
When installing fence posts for an electric fence, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, determine the type of critter you're trying to contain and your budget. The type of animal will influence the spacing and number of wires required. For example, if you need to keep deer out, half-inch tape is insufficient, while coated wire is easy to see and install. If you have a particular plot for the fence, take measurements and decide on an appropriate height.
Next, choose the type of fencing and posts. T-posts, rebar posts, and fiberglass posts are easy and inexpensive to install, while wood posts offer a rustic look. For aesthetics, you may want to consider wooden posts at the corners and ends of the fence, as these points experience extra strain. Wood posts should be at least 6 inches in diameter and anchored 3 to 4 feet into the ground. Corner posts should be larger in diameter than the posts along the sides and properly braced to withstand the tension-load from the fence. Brace these posts using brace-wire, pulling the post in the opposite direction of the fence's tension.
To install wooden posts, mark the desired depth, which should be at least 3 feet, and either pound the post into the ground or use a post-hole digger. You can then tamp the soil around the post, ensuring it is centred. Another method is to dig a hole larger than the post diameter, place the post in the hole, and repack the soil. For T-posts, rebar posts, and fiberglass posts, use a "post pounder" or a heavy pipe with a closed end to drive them into the ground.
When installing the posts, use a long string to mark a straight line and ensure that at least one-third of each post is buried. The bottom wire will be run out first and slightly tensioned to guide the placement of the posts. Secure the wire to the posts with connector clamps, ensuring it is pulled taut to avoid loosening and corrosion. Additionally, consider the terrain; on hillsides, install the posts perpendicular to the slope.
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Connecting the energizer
Positioning the Energizer
Place the energizer as close to the power source and the electric fence as possible. This ensures optimal energy transfer and minimizes energy loss. If you have frequent lightning storms in your area, consider taking extra precautions to protect your energizer from lightning and surge damage. Additionally, keep the energizer sheltered from the weather, especially moisture, by installing it indoors or in a protective enclosure.
Mounting the Energizer
Use a screw or nail to mount the energizer securely to a post or wall. Make sure to drive the screw or nail through the hanger hole in the charger case. This step ensures the stable placement of your energizer.
Connecting the Ground Wire
The grounding circuit is essential for the proper functioning of your electric fence. Use a ground rod clamp to securely attach the insulated ground wire to the ground rod. Ensure that the clamp firmly bites into both the rod and the wire. The ground wire should be appropriately insulated and rated for electric fencing to prevent corrosion and reduce power loss.
Connecting the Fence Wire
Use a high-voltage hook-up wire (20,000 volts or higher) to connect the fence terminal of the energizer to the electric fence wire. This connection ensures that the electric charge is transmitted from the energizer to the fence. Make sure to follow the instructions provided with your specific energizer model for a secure connection.
Testing the Voltage
Once the connections are made, use a voltage tester, also known as a voltmeter, to check the voltage on the fence line. This step ensures that your electric fence is functioning properly and has sufficient voltage to contain the animals. A minimum of 2,000 to 3,000 volts is typically necessary, but a well-constructed electric fence should have a voltage between 5,000 and 8,000 volts.
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Preventing stray voltage
Electric fence energizers are an important component of electric fencing, allowing farmers to manage their grazing operations effectively. However, issues like stray voltage can cause significant problems, including shocking animals and people, and interfering with appliances and fixtures. Here are some detailed instructions to prevent stray voltage when installing an electric fence energizer:
Firstly, ensure that your grounding rods are installed correctly. Grounding rods are essential for completing the electric field circuit, allowing the current to pass safely through an animal's body and back to the charger. Place the grounding rods in an area with maximum moisture, such as below roof eaves on buildings in sandy soils, while maintaining a safe distance from other grounding rods used for other systems.
Secondly, be cautious when positioning your grounding rods in relation to other components. Keep the ground wire and rods separate from the panels, gates, and buildings. If the ground wire is not insulated or has cracked insulation, corrosion can lead to stray voltage as the current will find the path of least resistance, which may be through metal structures or water sources.
Thirdly, be mindful of the specific areas where stray voltage commonly occurs, such as around gates, water sources, and wellheads. If animals are reluctant to drink from a water source, it could indicate a stray voltage issue. Additionally, ensure that your electric fence energizer is adequately protected from lightning strikes by installing a lightning coil or lightning choke on the lead wire near the energizer.
Lastly, when installing the electric fence energizer, follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Most energizers come with detailed installation manuals and component-specific instructions. Proper installation is critical to preventing stray voltage issues. Ensure that the energizer is positioned as close to the power source and the electric fence as possible. If using a solar charger, protect it from the weather by placing it indoors or in a protective enclosure.
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Frequently asked questions
You should always refer to the installation manual provided with your electric fence energizer. You will also need to ensure that the energizer is properly grounded to reduce the risk of electrical shock. Avoid installing ground rods within 50 ft of a utility ground rod, buried telephone line, or water line.
You will need a ground rod, a ground wire, a fence terminal, and a fence wire. You may also need undergate cable and connection bolts, or alligator clips/fence leads if your energizer is solar or battery-powered.
First, mount the fence charger to a post or wall using a screw or nail through the hanger hole in the charger case. Then, connect the ground wire to the ground terminal and the ground rods. Finally, connect the fence terminal to the fence wire.
You can use a voltmeter to check the voltage of your electric fence. Place the meter probe on the ground wire or rods, and extend the meter lead wire as far away as possible. Attach to a wire probe and insert it into the soil. If the voltage reading exceeds 300 volts, the grounding system is inadequate and more ground rods should be added.
