Components of an electric fence
An electric fence consists of multiple components:
Energiser
The energiser converts electricity from the mains or battery supply into safe high voltage pulses of electric current which travel along the fence. This pulse lasts for a fraction of a second. The type of energiser you need depends on:
- How close the fence is to a mains supply?
- How long the fence will be?
- Type of animals you want to control?
Wire
There are many variations of wire available.
Steel wire, either single or multi-stranded, is strong, durable and highly effective at conducting electricity. The animal will receive a greater shock when touching the fence and it is effective at overcoming shorting from vegetation. Steel wire is heavier than other alternatives, and best used in permanent or semi-permanent fencing. This should never be used with horses
Polywire is lighter than steel wire. It is a UV stabilised polythene twine and has three or more strands of stainless steel wire woven into it. Polywire is designed for temporary fencing and strip-grazing, although the more substantial Polyrope or Polybraid can be used for permanent fencing
Polytape consists of stainless steel wires and polythene strands woven into a ribbon. It is available in a range of widths and colours and is highly visible but can be vulnerable in high winds. This can be used for permanent and temporary fencing
Electrified netting is made in a range of mesh sizes for different animals. The horizontal strands are live with the exception of the bottom line to avoid shorting out on the ground. It is most suitable for temporary fencing and strip-grazing, but you need to keep the vegetation down to maintain an effective current
Pre Loaded Reels
Reels with wire pre-wrapped around it. Reels allow you to unroll the fence wire evenly without creating potentially damaging kinks, and roll it up again neatly for reuse. We have two types of reel.
- Reel - For use with our Fencing Machines
- Hand Reel - For manual fencing
Reel Post
Reel posts are made from steel and are used at the end of a fence line to keep the wire taut. Reels are placed onto Reel posts and lock into position to maintain fence tension. We have two types of reel post.
Be careful to pick compatible products when using Reel Posts and Pre Loaded Reels. Reel Posts can't be used with Hand Reels and Hand Reel Posts can't be used with Reels.
Anchor Posts
Anchor posts are used at the beginning of your fence run and in the corners. Made from steel they maintain the strain on the fence.
Electric Fence Posts
Electric Fence Posts support your wire in the fence line. Posts are available in different heights depending on the stock you want to fence. Posts are usually made from plastic or steel.
Insulators
Insulators stop the live fence wire touching the post or stake. Insulators stop the electricity leaking back into the ground. Good quality insulators should be smooth and dry off easily. This is to prevent moisture collecting in nooks or cracks causing current to leak in an ‘arc’. Arcing reduces the effectiveness of the fence and can be identified by a regular clicking sound.
Please note: Polystakes are made of non-conductive plastic therefore separate insulators are not required.
Earth Stakes
Earth stakes are inserted into the ground and attached to the energiser. An earth stake ensures the power returns through the ground and back to the energiser when an animal completes the circuit by touching the fence.
Fence Tester
All electric fences need regular maintenance. You should regularly measure the power on the fence lines. A fence tester, or voltmeter, will help you locate any problem areas where power is leaking away.