Electric Fence is a relatively inexpensive alternative to conventional fencing. While it is not a substitute for a well-constructed wooden fence, electric fences can extend the life of older stock fences and are particularly effective in rugged terrain where a physical barrier is difficult to build.

FenceFast  basic principle is simple: electricity will only travel through a closed circuit. A component called a power energizer converts power into a pulse of high voltage. One terminal of the energizer is connected to a bare wire on the fence and another to a metal rod implanted in the ground, called a ground or earth rod. When an animal touches both the bare wire and the ground during a pulse, the electrical circuit is completed and the animal receives a shock.

Wired for Safety: Tips and Tricks for Maximizing the Effectiveness of Your Electric Fence

An electric fence may sound dangerous, especially because the shocks it produces can be painful to people and animals. However, the amount of current involved is very low compared to standard household electricity. In addition, the pulsating nature of the current prevents a grab effect and allows targets to remove themselves from the source of energy quickly. Electric fences are strongly regulated to ensure that they do not cause injury to animals or people.

To make an electric fence work, it must be properly installed and maintained. Most of the problems encountered with electric fences are caused by poor or missing grounding. The joule rating of the energizer (the capacity of its battery) should be selected to match the fence’s anticipated load. It is advisable to purchase more joules than will be required, as this provides the flexibility to charge additional fences built in the future.