Electric Fencing Made Easy

Electric fencing has been around for many years, originating for use by farmers needing a semi-permanent type of fence and providing an effective way of containing stock and for strip grazing.
It has now become one of the most popular ways of providing fencing for equestrian users and smallholders, preferable in many cases, to post and rail or wire as it allows so much more flexibility, is very safe for all types of livestock and is cost effective too.

However, many people are rather daunted by the prospect of all the wire, posts and "gadgets" that are needed, but, in fact, planning and erecting electric fencing is a very straight forward process.

So, how does electric fencing work?

To provide an electric current to the fence, you will need an energiser, which is powered by battery or mains electric, which in turn is connected to the electric fence tape and earth. When your horse touches the live fence, it will complete the electric circuit and feel the voltage difference, which is when the animal gets a sharp zap!

An energiser is the unit that creates the high voltage pulse shock and can be powered by battery or from the mains.

How safe is electric fencing to use?

All reputable brands of electric fencing have to comply to the latest British and European standards, and although the frequency is high (maximum 10,000 volts) the frequency and size of the pulse makes the product safe.

What type of fence lines are available?

A wide choice is available, depending on individual preference for colour, weight and strength required. The range includes high tensile wire, stranded wire, polywire, electrotape (available in brown, green or white), flock netting available for sheep, goat, poultry and rabbits and now electro rope a recent addition, which has proved very popular in windy areas!

Should I buy a mains energiser or battery energiser?

This choice is determined by availability of power source. If mains is available this is probably the best option, as it will be more convenient, no need to check the battery on a regular basis and no need to replace or recharge the battery. However, if no power supply is readily available, then the battery energiser will provide a good supply of power and can be moved around as needed.

We are able to supply a complete range of Fenceman electric fencing products, and are pleased to announce a new range of electric fencing including the Horse and Pony paddock kit, from Rutland Electric Fencing , which as the name suggests, gives you everything you need to electrify a small paddock. This package comes complete with a Practical Guide to Electric Fencing giving the total novice a step by step guide to setting up. It will fence 100 metres of straight, two line 12mm Electro tape, or can easily be extended to 200 metres of single line tape and includes battery energiser, 10 polyposts, insulators, etc. and retails at £99.95 inc VAT. Further kits, tape, posts, energisers, and in fact anything to do with electric fencing are available by mail order from us.