Demystifying the Electric Chain Link Fence: A Beginner’s Handbook
If you are a small farmer looking for an efficient and economical way to house animals on your farm, wire mesh fencing could be your solution. Also known as poultry, goat or sheep netting, these fences come in different heights and lengths to accommodate different types of livestock, from poultry and small ruminants to cattle. This guide will walk you through the basics of installing and using an electric chain link fence, even if you’re not an electrical expert.
Image Credit: FamilyHandyman
Fence installation:
A breeze
Installing a grid fence is easy, even for those unfamiliar with electrical systems. Most manufacturers provide clear instructions for opening and closing the fence. Be sure to keep all the original ties that tied the fence together – they can help.
The best part? Unlike traditional fencing methods, wire mesh fencing requires minimal effort. The fence comes with posts that are pre-attached to the grid. Simply plug the posts into the ground and use the base to push them down. Whether you are creating a square, rectangular or circular fence, the versatility of electric chain link fencing allows you to adapt to any area shape.
You should cut weeds or tall grass that may be pressing on the fence. Grid fences work by emitting electrical impulses, and although they withstand obstacles better than traditional wires, any vegetation that touches the fence can ground and reduce efficiency. its.
Choose the right sword
Grid fences rely on a transformer (also known as a fence generator, charger, or energizer) to provide an electrical charge that keeps the fence “hot”. Choose a transformer that provides the joules needed for your particular fence – the manufacturer’s instructions will help you with this. You can choose from a plug-in AC charger (ideal for indoor use), a battery-connected DC charger, or a solar charger ideal for outdoor setups. Solar chargers are especially interesting for autonomous farms. They use solar panels to charge 6- or 12-volt batteries, providing uninterruptible power to your fence. While they may be more expensive, solar chargers offer long-term benefits, especially for those looking to reduce their reliance on traditional energy sources.
A note about the ground rod
To complete the circuit, you will need a ground rod (also called a ground rod). It is a conductive metal rod, like copper, that is plugged into the ground. While commercial options are available, you can improvise with items like copper plumbing, metal T-piles, or rebar. Experiment with different lengths and materials to find what works best for your setup.
Connect the fence and make it “hot”
To electrify your mesh fence, you need three important things:
Image Credit: Youtube
transformers, jumper cables for connections and ground rods. Connect the positive end of the jumper cable to the positive terminal of the power supply unit and the negative end to the negative terminal. Attach the other negative end to the ground rod, ensuring metal-to-metal contact. Finally, connect the remaining positive end to the metal clips hanging from the end posts of your fence. Once powered on, you’ll hear the fence activate with a ticking or crackling sound.
Check fence:
Shocking truth
Ensuring your electrical chain link fence is functioning properly is essential. While fence testers are available for precise measurements, you can also test them manually. Tap the fence lightly to feel a small, uncomfortable shock. Remember that the goal is to keep animals and predators out, not harm them. Observing your livestock’s behavior to the fence upon introduction can aid in their safe acclimation.
Finally, simplicity provides empowerment.
It is not necessary to have significant electrical understanding to set up and use an electric net fence. Even beginners can effectively use this cost-effective and efficient fencing system with simple instructions and minimal safety considerations. By adopting the ease of use of electric net fences, you provide your small farm with a tool that keeps animals contained and secure while also fostering efficient land management.
