Residential, or small commercial or industrial electric fences are a relatively simple proposition to fit, in most Cases. Usually, you would be looking at a "wall top" type of fence, and this is what we describe in this article.
Before beginning to work out what you'll need for your electric fencing project, there are a few things you'll need to do.
Measure the length of the fence line. Usually, it's best to measure each line, or section of your fence separately. This will help you to work out how many brackets you will need. Find a suitable place for the energizer. This is the unit that will power your fence, and being electronic, you'll need a place that's sheltered from the weather, ideally. Even though these units are water resistant, it's better to be safe than sorry! Check that there is a power supply point near to the location of your energizer. Most units have a plug in transformer, so a regular household plug point will work. If not, have an electrician install one for you!
Now that the basics are covered, you will need to buy the supplies for your fence, these are listed hereunder, along with tips to help you calculate the quantities you'll need.
Brackets
Usually, steel extension brackets are fitted to the top of a wall or fence. These are bolted, or fitted using coach screws, and come in galvanized and powder coated varieties. Ask for brackets pre fitted with insulators (the plastic fittings that keep the electrical wires away from the steel bracket.)
To work out how many you need, calculate your intermediate brackets by dividing the length of each line of fencing by between 12 and 16 feet (or the nearest measurement according to the fence posts that are already there.) Then add another bracket for each corner and end.
Tensioners
It's very important for wires on electric fencing to be under tension, because slack wires may touch the brackets; carrying them, and cause a short or false alarm.
There are a wide variety of tensioners available, from spring to ratchet types, all costing different amounts, and offering varying degrees of tension. Speak to your supplier for the best option for your project.
To calculate the quantity of tensioners, simply take the number of strands or wires, multiply it by the number of end or corner brackets, and multiply the answer by two. You should have a few left, but rather too many than too few!
Conductors
Next on your shopping list is the conductors or wires. These can be either stainless steel, or galvanized mild steel.
In many Cases, wire is sold according to the weight of the roll, but you can calculate your requirements by taking your fence length, and multiplying it by the number of strands you are using. I like to add around ten percent for loops and wastage.
Electronics
About all that's left is the electronics. These would consist of an energizer, and possibly a siren and strobe light, to warn you of shorts on the fence line.
Energizers for domestic use are typically single zone units, meaning they don't split your fence into different sections, but considering that most residential applications are small, that's no real problem.
More important though is the quality of the unit. Look for robust, well made units, with a weather resistant housing. Try to avoid cheap imports, or those that don't have a great manufacturer's warranty. Remember, the energizer unit is electronic, and like all electronics, they may have factory faults. You'll want a good returns policy!
There are quite a few extra hardware items you may need, from ferrules to warning signs, screws or bolts, sealant and a few other bits and pieces, but your supplier should be able to advise you on those.
All in all, a domestic or small commercial electric fence can cost as little as a few hundred dollars, and will provide added peace of mind!
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