Umair Gaines
Electric fences need to be regularly tested to ensure the voltage isn't too high or low, which can be done using a voltmeter. However, if you don't have a voltmeter, there are other ways to test an electric fence. One way is to use a screwdriver with a plastic handle, touching the metal end to each fence wire to check for an electric arc. Another method is to use a non-contact voltmeter, which can detect whether there is voltage in the fence without needing to touch the wires. Additionally, you can test the outlet by plugging in another electrical device to check if it works. If you hear strange noises coming from your electric fence, it may be best to hire a professional fence company to take a look.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Testing tools | Non-contact voltmeter, electric fence voltmeter, blade of grass, screwdriver with plastic handle, knuckle, Zareba® Fence Doctor |
| Non-contact voltmeter usage | Stand within 5 feet of the fence, point the meter at the fence, and check for beeping and a steady light at the tip |
| Electric fence voltmeter usage | Hold the plastic part of the voltmeter, touch the ground wire with the metal tip, and touch a charged wire with the metal prong |
| Blade of grass usage | Ground yourself, then grab the electric fence |
| Screwdriver with plastic handle usage | Touch the metal end to the fence wire and look for an electric arc |
| Zareba® Fence Doctor usage | Connect the fence and ground hook-up wires, then turn on the power |
| Voltage | Most electric fences have a voltage of 2,000 to 10,000 volts |
| Grounding | Systems should have at least three ground rods, with more required in sandy, dry, rocky, or frozen soil |
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What You'll Learn
Use a non-contact voltmeter to check for voltage
A non-contact voltmeter is a useful tool for testing electric fences as it can detect voltage without needing to touch the fence. You can purchase a non-contact voltmeter from any tool supplier for around $20.
To use a non-contact voltmeter, first, turn it on and wait for a blinking red light on the tip. This indicates that the voltmeter is on and ready to use. Stand within 5 feet of the electric fence and point the blinking tip of the voltmeter towards the fence. The voltmeter will likely start beeping and have a steady light at the tip if there is a charge. If the voltmeter does not light up or beep, slowly move closer to the fence. If the voltmeter still does not light up or beep when you are within a few inches of the fence wire, you can be confident that there is no voltage in the area.
It is important to note that non-contact voltmeters only indicate the presence or absence of voltage, they do not provide specific voltage readings. If you want to know the exact voltage, you will need to use an electric fence voltmeter.
Non-contact voltmeters are simple to use, but always read the product instructions before using a new tool for the first time.
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Try a screwdriver with a plastic handle
If you don't have a voltmeter to test your electric fence, a screwdriver with a plastic handle can be used as a simple alternative. The plastic handle is non-conductive, so it can keep your hands safe from electric shocks.
To test your electric fence using a plastic-handled screwdriver, start by choosing a metal screwdriver with a thick plastic handle. Ensure that you do not touch any part of the screwdriver's metal with your hand. Next, touch the metal tip of the screwdriver to each wire on the fence and watch for an electric arc that will leap from the wire to the screwdriver. If you don't notice any arcing immediately, run the screwdriver back and forth over the wire for 10 to 30 seconds. If there's still no arcing, the wire most likely has no charge. It's important to test each wire on the fence with the screwdriver.
It is crucial to avoid touching the fence during this process. If you touch a working electric fence, you may experience a painful zap on your hand and possibly up your arm. This can be dangerous and should be avoided. Additionally, never grasp the wire with your hand. Clenching is a natural reflex during an electric shock, and you may not be able to let go of the fence.
While using a screwdriver with a plastic handle is a simple and accessible method for testing an electric fence, it may not provide as accurate or reliable results as a voltmeter. Therefore, if you plan to regularly test your electric fence, investing in a voltmeter is recommended.
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Touch the fence with a blade of grass
Touching an electric fence with a blade of grass is one way to test if it is working without using a voltmeter. However, this method is not recommended and should only be used if absolutely necessary.
To perform the test, you will need a long blade of grass, about eight inches in length. Squat down on one knee and pinch one end of the blade of grass between your thumb and index finger. Then, lay the other end of the grass on the fence wire. If the fence is electrified, you should feel a slight "ping" in the blade of grass. As you move the blade of grass closer to the fence, the "ping" will become stronger, so be cautious not to bring it too close. The grass will help protect you from the shock, but it is still important to be careful.
While this method can confirm whether or not the fence is electrified, it does not provide any information about the strength or voltage of the current. For a more comprehensive understanding of the fence's performance, it is recommended to use a voltmeter or seek the assistance of a qualified electrician.
It is important to remember that electric fences can deliver powerful shocks, so always exercise caution when performing any type of test or inspection.
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Use a compass
A compass can be used to test an electric fence without a voltmeter. This method is considered old-school, but it can be useful in a pinch. Here are the steps you can follow:
Firstly, grab a compass from your toolbox or adventuring backpack. It's important to ensure that you are using a traditional compass with a needle or arrow that can freely move and align with magnetic fields. Digital compasses may not respond to the electromagnetic field in the same way.
Once you have your compass, stand near the electric fence, being careful not to touch it. Hold the compass about 5 to 8 centimetres away from the wire. Be cautious not to get too close, as electric fences can deliver a powerful shock.
Now, carefully watch the compass needle. If the fence is energised, the compass arrow will vibrate due to the electromagnetic field generated by the electric current. Give it some time, as it may take a few seconds for the electric pulses to reach the compass. You should hold the compass in place for at least 10 to 30 seconds.
If the compass needle does not vibrate, it may be that the fence is not energised, or the current is too weak to affect the compass at that distance. In this case, you can try moving the compass slightly closer to the wire, but always maintain a safe distance.
Additionally, you can use your hearing as another old-school method. Go to a quiet part of the fenced-in area and stand about one foot away from the electric fence. Listen carefully for a faint buzzing or humming sound, which indicates a working electric fence. However, be aware that if you don't hear anything, it doesn't necessarily mean the fence isn't working.
Using a compass is a simple and safe way to test an electric fence without a voltmeter. However, it may not be as accurate as using a voltmeter, so if you have any doubts, it's best to call a fencing professional to take a look.
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Call an electrician
Electric fences are an effective way to keep livestock contained and protected from predators. However, they can malfunction, leading to livestock escape and even put humans and animals at risk of dangerous electric shocks. While there are some ways to test an electric fence without a voltmeter, it is always best to call a professional electrician to handle any electrical issues.
Electricians are trained to work with electrical currents and circuits and can quickly identify and resolve problems with your electric fence. They can ensure that the voltage is within a safe range, preventing the risk of shocks. Electricians can also check for issues such as faulty grounding, which is a common cause of electric fence malfunctions. By completing early interventions, they can save you the hassle of chasing escaped livestock and prevent potential damage to your property.
If you notice any issues with your electric fence, such as livestock escaping or predatory animals breaching the fence, call an electrician to inspect and repair it. They can also advise on the correct type of insulators for your fence, as using the wrong ones or having cracked or damaged insulators can cause shorts. Electricians can also help if you are dealing with a power outage affecting your electric fence or if there is vegetation touching the fence, draining the voltage.
In addition, if you notice any strange noises, such as crackling or clicking, coming from your electric fence, this could indicate an electrical issue. Call an electrician to investigate and resolve the problem. They can also assist with outlet issues, such as when a device plugged into the outlet is not working correctly. This could be a sign of inadequate voltage delivery and should be addressed by a professional.
While testing an electric fence without a voltmeter is possible, it is always best to leave electrical work to the experts. Electricians are equipped with the knowledge and tools to safely test and repair your electric fence, ensuring the safety of your livestock, humans, and property.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use a screwdriver with a plastic handle. Touch the metal end of the screwdriver to each fence wire. If the wire is working, you may notice an immediate electric arc move from the wire to the screwdriver.
Yes, you can use a blade of grass to test an electric fence. However, please note that this method is not recommended as it can still deliver a powerful shock.
A non-contact voltmeter is a simple tool that can be used to test an electric fence without touching the fence wires. It will beep and light up if it detects a charge.
Stand within 5 feet of the electric fence and point the blinking tip of the non-contact voltmeter towards the fence. If the voltmeter does not light up or beep, slowly move closer to the fence. If it still does not light up or beep, there is no charge.
If you get the "on" indicator in some sections of the fence and the "off" indicator in other sections, follow up with an electric fence voltmeter to see if you get variable voltage readings. If you do get variable readings, call an electrician or electric fence installer.
