Electric Fence Installation – Pros, Cons, Tips, And Everything In Between
One of the most popular types of security fencing that has gained following over the years is electrical fencing. This is an effective system that has been used by many homes as well as farms. Some homeowners do not just set them up to prevent burglary but also to keep their pets from straying. This kind of fence works where the electrical circuit is completed, in this case, when a conductor (the body of an animal or human) touches the barrier. If you want to save on your insurance premiums, there are some insurance companies that have actually lowered the payments upon the payor’s electric fence installation.
The Construction Process
Electrical fences are easy to set up because they only require lower wire tension and very little construction efforts. This kind of fence requires low maintenance despite its efficiency in keeping pets inside the house and robbers from coming in.
While this fencing project is easy, there are certain regulations that need to be met so it is advisable to ask the help of an expert. An electrician automatically knows the ordinances that, when violated, fetch you a substantial amount of penalty. The electrician that you will hire knows about zoning laws so they know what to do before they begin the electric fence installation.
The Upside
There are many advantages in installing electric fence all around your home. This has been a proven deterrent to vandalism, trespassing and burglary. No person likes feeling electric shock so a burglar is likelier to steal from a home with regular fencing than one that has electric fence installed.
Selective barriers can also be bought such that big animals (horses and cows) are kept in while smaller animals like cats and dogs are allowed to pass through. Have this kind of electric fence designed by a licensed electrician.
The Downside
A major disadvantage of electric fences is that they can keep emergency services from being provided to your home. For example, if you are the lone occupant of your home and you end up in a kitchen accident where you lay on the floor, helpless, the electric fence is seen as a deterrent to medical help.
Make sure that no vegetation is present when installing an electric fence as this may render the fence ineffective.
Installation Guide
- Decide on the wire lengths that you would like to install. It is important to measure your property so that you can get an accurate figure for your fencing project. You can then decide on the number of brace corners as well as posts that you will need.
- If you have an existing fence, get the additional materials that you would need to build a sturdier fence.
- Choose a charger as there are many types in the market. Remember to buy a charger that can be plugged into an AC outlet. It is also important that you buy a charger that gives off a consistent high charge.
- Select the wire, most homeowners choose thinner wires since they are visually pleasing and are more likely to fit anything. If you want thicker wires, then you are up to deliver a stronger punch with them.
- Have the charger set up in a place that has room temperature, preferably one that is dry.
Build the electric fence, run the wire and connector plugs in different places on your fence and wall. As soon as everything is linked, you should turn on the charger. If the wires give off a mild electric shock once they are turned on, then this means that you have successfully finished your electric fence installation. Have a tester ready in order to find out.