Introduction:
Electric fences are a versatile & effective means of providing security & containment for Industrial, conservancies, Ranches, and agricultural properties. Whether you’re looking to protect your farm from wildlife & keep livestock safely within their boundaries, containing wildlife within a National park or Conservancy, Installing an Electric Fence will most likely be the most practical and efficient solution. Especially when using high-quality materials from well-established brands like JVA & STAFIX In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process for installing a JVA/STAFIX-powered electric fence, ensuring a safe and effective setup.
Step 1: Plan and Prepare
Before you begin installing an electric fence, take the time to plan out your project carefully. Determine the purpose of your fence, measure the perimeter you wish to enclose, and determine your specs and quantity & source of high-quality materials. Common components include energizers (power units) Like (STAFIX X6i, X12i, and x18i), or you can opt for an energizer monitor combo (JVA series Z18, Z14, and Z11), fence posts (Typically treated Gum or Steel), insulators, wires, earth rods, and warning signs. All your leading brands from JVA & STAFIX, BEKAERT, and POSTSAVER are available from Instarect Stafix Electric Fence Centre.
Step 2: Choose the Right Energizer (Do not compromise here)
The energizer is the heart of your electric fence system, supplying the electrical pulse charge. Select an energizer based on the wire configuration, length of the fence, & the type of animals you intend to contain or deter. Energizers are available in various output options, and it’s crucial to choose one that is powerful enough to provide an appropriate shock without causing harm to the animals or humans.
Step 3: Confirm the correct Beacon Alignment
Once done, Clear your fence line. Ensure you provide good maintenance access & ensure you do not have avoidable access points, Trees overhanging the fence (Monkeys especially can use these to enter & steal or damage crops)
Step 4: Fence Posts
Begin by installing sturdy strain assemblies. This must not be compromised as this is the main skeleton for your fence. Intermediate line Posts are installed at regular intervals along the perimeter. Correct line post spacing is key to your fence performance. These posts will support the wires and ensure the stability of the fence. Dig holes for each post, ensuring they are deep enough to provide sufficient stability. Insert the posts and secure them with concrete or tamp the soil firmly around them. Allow the strain assembly concrete posts to set/cure before proceeding to strain your wire For a long-life post, (we recommend the use of #PostSaver to protect from Rot when using treated gum posts)
Step 5: Insulators
Insulators are essential to prevent the electrical charge from grounding out through your post. Attach insulators to the fence posts at appropriate intervals, ensuring they are compatible with the type of HT(high tensile) wire you’re using. Insulators are typically made of non-conductive materials to provide a barrier between the wire and the post/Ground
Step 6: Run the Wire
Run the HT wire through the insulators, starting from the strain assembly post or end post and then running along the fence line. Ensure the wire is correctly tensioned, Do not over-tension. It’s recommended to use high-quality heavily galvanized or Bezinal-coated Green wire designed specifically for Electric Fences, it is durable and designed to withstand the elements.
Step 7: Earthing Earthing Earthing
Correct earthing is the most important component of an electric fencing system. Over 80% of electric fencing problems can be attributed to poor earthing. A properly functioning earth is essential for the electric fence to work effectively. At each Energizer use at least 3 earth rods; each at least 1.2m/2m long, connect the earth stakes using a single length of double insulated under-gate cable. The fence line must also contain earth rods at predetermined intervals installed at suitable locations. For dry locations, you require longer or more frequent earth stakes. If you are using Galvanized wire then you must use galvanized earth rods, not copper.
To deliver a deterrent shock, you have to complete this circuit. Earthing is the most important part of the circuit to get right.
Step 8: Test the Electric Fence
Make sure you electrify your fence as you complete each length. Before introducing animals or relying on the fence for security, it’s vital to test its functionality. Turn on the energizer and use a JVA fault finder or voltmeter to measure the voltage along the fence line. Walk the perimeter, checking for any voltage drops or irregularities. Adjust and troubleshoot as necessary to ensure consistent voltage throughout the fence.
Step 9: Safety Precautions
When installing an Electric Fence, safety should be a top priority. Place warning signs regularly along the fence to alert people to its presence. Educate family members, employees, the community, or anyone who will interact with the fence about its operation and potential hazards. Always follow local regulations and guidelines regarding Electric Fences.
Conclusion:
Installing an electric fence can be a rewarding project that provides security, containment, and peace of mind. You can create an effective and safe electric fence system by carefully planning, selecting the right high-quality materials, and following the installation steps outlined in this guide. Remember to prioritize safety, regularly inspect and maintain the fence, and consult professionals like Instarect Ltd. Who have been in the Electric fence Industry in Kenya for over 32 yrs supplying quality components & accessories for Installing electric fences in Farms, Conservancies, Wildlife Fencing, Industrial, residential Free-standing security & Wall-top fences When required. Get your Electric Fence installed for the first time. Instarect Ltd can assist you with consultancy, planning & Design. Sourcing correct materials & can supervise or fully install your fence. Call us at 0721 975 179 or 0733 600 979 or email us on info@instarect.com
