How to Assemble an Electric Fence

The fence surrounding a field is essential to the care of horses or other livestock. The type of fence is determined by the ability of the enclosed animals. If animals are capable of remaining behind an electric fence, then this is the best and least expensive option. Proper installation of an electric fence helps to determine the overall effectiveness of the fence. An improperly installed fence can be a danger to animals and people. There are three types of electric fences: wire, tape and rope. The elements needed for a proper fence are the same for each type.

Things You'll Need

  • Corner posts
  • 1 bag of concrete per post
  • Vinyl step in posts
  • 1 wooden post for every 20 feet of fence line
  • 4 insulators for each corner posts
  • 2 insulators for each additional wooden post
  • Hammer
  • Post hole digger
  • Wire cutters
  • Fence charger
  • Insulated wire for grounding
  • Insulated wire for connection of fence to charger
  • 2 ground rod connectors
  • 4 foot ground rods, 2
  • Warning signs
  • Zip ties
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Install all wooden posts. Use one bag of concrete mix for each post. Posts should be installed three feet in the ground.

    • 2

      Install the insulators on the wooden posts. Corner posts should have insulators installed on two connected sides close to the corner. Top insulators should be no more than four feet off the ground, and bottom insulators should be no less than one foot off the ground.

    • 3

      Install fence material in insulators. Connect ends to create a loop of wire. At gate section, the top and bottom wires can be connected to each other to create loop.

    • 4

      Install two step in posts in between each wooden post. Make sure to install fence material into the posts.

    • 5

      Locate and install the fence charger as per instructions for charger.

    • 6

      Use the hammer to beat the ground rods into the ground. They should be 10 feet from the charger and four feet from each other. Place grounding clamps on top of ground rods.

    • 7

      Use the insulated wire to connect the ground rods to each other and then the charger. Use the wire to connect the fence to the charger.

    • 8

      Zip tie warning signs to fence line every 40 feet along roadsides and near residences.