Electric fencing is a highly effective way to keep livestock on a property and away from predators. It sends a slight charge through the wire that animals feel. It’s a common misconception that electric fences are cruel, but this is untrue. It’s more of a psychological barrier than a physical one. A good energizer will have enough power to stop large mammals, but it won’t harm humans or small animals.
There are many factors that affect the cost of electric electric fencing installation services fence installation services, including the type and complexity of the fence, whether or not it’s solar-powered, and the amount of ground preparation needed for the circuit to operate. Also, the cost of labor and equipment rental can vary widely depending on where you live. Whether or not you need a permit will also influence the overall cost.
A professional company will charge more for installation, but it’s worth it if you want to ensure that your fence is safe and works properly. A local pro will be familiar with the area’s laws and regulations regarding the use of electricity for animal containment. In addition, they will know the best insulators to choose for the job and how to properly install them. This will prevent the shock from leaking through them and damaging your system.
Once the perimeter of the fence is completed, the next step is to assemble the unit that will electrify it. This is called the energizer and it can be either battery or solar-powered. The size of the energizer is determined by the types and number of animals that will be fenced in, as well as the length of the fence.
The energiser’s earth system must be at least 10 meters away from buildings, radios, and buried water pipes. Moisture and vegetation build-up can lead to temporary leeching of the current, which will reduce the shocking power. It’s important to schedule regular checks of the voltage at the farthest end of the fence.
A good insulator will be made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or a polyethylene/polyester mix. Avoid using any type of wood insulator, as these can cause sparking and short circuits. The insulator must be in good condition, with no cracks or abrasions. The insulator should not touch the ground, but instead be attached to a metal rod buried at least 6’ deep and spaced 10’ apart. Dry, sandy or pumice soil is a poor conductor of electricity and can cause interference, so it’s important to add a grounding wire into your system. This will improve the effectiveness of the electric fence, especially during rainy or snowy weather when the ground is frozen. A good grounding system will also reduce the chance of the energizer failing due to corrosion. For best results, use a galvanized steel rod. It is not a good idea to attach copper to steel because of electrolysis, which can weaken the shocking current. You should also make sure that the insulator is not touching any metal parts of the posts or corners.