Installing Electric Fencing for Pets and Livestock

Installing Electric Fencing for Pets and Livestock

September 29, 2019

Are you in the planning stages of creating a homestead or small farm? Do you have a large dog that always seems to escape your existing fence? Have you been struggling with pests like racoons, stray cats or possums? Then an electric fence may help you reach your goals. Many people have heard about electric fencing but are timid about installing a system in their own yard. At Mr. Electric of Dallas, we enjoy helping our residential and commercial clients find ways to maximize the safety, effectiveness and efficiency of their electrical system. Here are a few tips for installing an electric fence on your North Texas property.

Always Put Safety First 

Handling electricity can be extremely dangerous, even at lower voltages. Be sure to take the appropriate precautions when installing your electric fence. Ignoring safety measures can put you and your loved ones at risk. If at any time you feel overwhelmed by the process, get help from the fencing manufacturer or a trusted local electrician in Dallas.

Installing the Components

The first step is to find the best location for your fence charger. The energizer needs to be in a safe place, protected from the elements. If you do not have a weatherproof area with a suitable outlet to plug the charger in, then you may need to get creative about your options. You might be able to connect your fencing system through the garage or a backyard workshop with electrical power. Someone with a larger property may need to hire an electrician who can create a customized solution that meets their needs. Once you have located a proper area for your charger, place the charger nearby, but don’t plug the unit in until the entire fencing is installed and ready to be used. Otherwise, you may risk injury. Next, you’ll need to sink your grounding rods and attach the grounding wire from the fence charger to your rods, making sure it is properly secured. Then, install your fence posts. The amount of feet between posts will vary depending on your intended use and the size of your property. Once all posts are in place, you can install the electrical wiring.

Testing the System

After your system is fully installed, double check everything to make sure your posts are well supported, and the wiring is properly in place. Next, switch the system on by plugging in the fence charger. There should be an indicator light that will signal if the power is on or off. Check the voltage with a voltmeter, and inspect the entire fence line, looking for areas where an electrical current may be absent. You may discover that the spacing of the posts is insufficient, or that the electric fence isn’t working correctly. You may need to troubleshoot with the company that manufactures the equipment or contact a licensed electrician if you suspect there’s an issue with your electrical system. 

Need Help from a Certified Electrician in DFW? Call Mr. Electric of Dallas

Do you need help designing or installing an electrical system that can support your electric fence? Then get help from the experts at Mr. Electric of Dallas. We offer quality electrical installation, repairs and replacements for home and business owners in Dallas, North Dallas, University Park, Lake Highlands, Inwood, Farmers Branch, Highland Park, Oak Lawn and other nearby metro DFW area communities. Contact our office to learn more about our residential and commercial services or to schedule an appointment with a certified, licensed and insured electrician in your neighborhood.