Electric fences are an effective way to secure your property boundaries and deter trespassers. However, as with all electrical systems, these fencing structures require regular maintenance to ensure proper function and safety. This includes the ability to spot and address problems, such as damaged wires, insulators, or malfunctioning energizers. While you can undertake some basic electric fence repairs, it is recommended to seek professional assistance for complex issues. This will help reduce the risk of serious damage to your electric fence and maintain its efficiency and reliability.
A common cause of fence malfunction is a loss of power to the system. Whether the problem is caused by a dead battery, a faulty energizer or even simply a plugged-in electric fence tester that is not delivering voltage to the wires, these can have a huge impact on how well your fence functions. If you experience any of these issues, the first step in troubleshooting is to turn off the power to the energizer.
Once you’ve done this, it is important to check that you have all the correct tools and replacement parts for the task at hand. Having the right tools expert electric fence repairs will make your job a whole lot easier and more efficient. Some helpful items to have in your toolbox include a crimping tool, gripple tensioners and wire joiners, electric fence pliers, a wire cutter, and a pair of rubber gloves and insulated boots.
The next step is to visually walk the length of your fence and check for any physical damage. This includes checking that all the insulators are intact and not broken or cracked. Insulators are often susceptible to deterioration over time and can crack or become dislodged due to environmental conditions such as temperature changes, sunlight exposure, and stressors like animal pressure on the fence. Keeping up with a schedule of routine inspections and replacement of insulators will minimise these issues.
Another common issue that can cause your electric fence to stop working properly is a lack of grounding. This can be a result of a broken wire touching the ground or a non-insulated wire. Having an uninsulated wire touch a live conductor such as a metal pipe or fence post can create a short to earth fault, which will disable the system. Ideally, you should use a non-conductive material to ground your fence as this will prevent potential injuries or damage to your fence.
Finally, it is a good idea to check all of the terminals that attach to the energizer for loose connections. These will also be exposed to a lot of weathering, which can lead to corrosion and shorts.
Depending on your type of fence, you may also want to consider adding a warning sign or other appropriate signage. Using an effective warning sign is an excellent way to remind anyone who enters your property that the fence is electrified and that they should stay clear. These signs are an affordable option and can greatly increase the effectiveness of your electric fence.