Electric fence can be a cost effective method of housingĀ cattle, sheep and goats in large areas. Electric fence design and parts needed can be intimidating if you are not familiar with it. Careful planning will make it easy.
You will need an electric fence charger, also known as a controller or energizer or electric fencer. Fence chargers come in several different power configurations.Ā These are solar powered, Battery powered, and mains or AC powered.Ā
Its important to locate the heart of your fence in a strategic spot, like a barn, corner, or gate opening. Its a good idea to house the energizer in a water proof covering or indoors to protect it from weather. Solar electric fence chargers need to be outdoors and facing the midday sun. Solar fencers house an internal battery which operated the unit. the solar panel keeps it charged.
A ground system in needed for the energizer and should be located close to it. WE recommend at least three, 6 foot rods. they come in copper, or steel with a galavinzed coating. Its important not to mix metals when it comes to ground wire and rods, if its copper rods, use copper wire to connect it to the charger. Use clamps to attach the ground rod to the ground wire.
The next step is laying out your fence post according to your plan. You may need several on hills and valleys to compensate for rises. where in straight aways you can space them out quite a bit. Use high quality fence insulators for your wire. There are many types of wire. polywires, and tapes available. For temporary fences that will be moved, turboĀ wire is easy to use and cost effective.
For Cattle 1 to 4 wires can work well. For sheep and goats, the more wires the better. Metal wire will act as a physical barrier to help keep them contained. When you have the wires installed, make sure you connect them together so they will all have energy to them. Then connect the energizer to the top wire.Ā
Before starting the system, carefully inspect the fence for any possible faults or problems. Use a digital fault finder or voltmeter once you have the system running to check the preformance.
You should see at least 5000 volts in the fence, If not, check for faults and fix.
Your new fence will be a great asset to your farm if you spend the time and plan it right, build it well, and use high quaility parts from Valley Farm Supply.
