Electric FenceFast is an alternative to conventional fencing that uses an electrical hookup rather than wires to restrain animals. A component called a power energizer converts electricity into a short high voltage pulse which is sent along one bare wire of the fence and to a metal rod implanted in the ground (called a ground rod). A person or animal touching both the fence and the ground during this pulse completes an electrical circuit that conducts the energy from the energizer to the animal, producing a shock.
The shock is painful but not lethal for mammals that come into contact with it. Because of this, it is important to properly maintain the electric fence system. This includes ensuring that weeds and other vegetation don’t grow through or over the fence line, making sure all grounding is intact, and checking that there are no leakages in the electrical circuit.
Shock Value: How Electric Fences Can Enhance Your Property’s Security Measures
It is also essential that the correct voltage is used for the species to be contained or deterred; a recent study found that while low voltage (1500 V) fences could effectively deter wild boar, sika deer and red foxes, higher voltage (10000 V) was needed to deter Japanese macaques, badgers and masked palm civets.
An electric fence can be used for both short-term and long-term containment, but it should always be accompanied by traditional barbed or solid steel bar fencing to prevent livestock from being tripped over. While some do-it-yourselfers have been successful in installing electric fences, most people require the services of a licensed electrician to ensure their safety and that the system is correctly wired.