Electric Fencing - The Basics... Testing Testing!
Electric Fencing - The Basics... Testing Testing!
We have a bucket full of experience and wanted to share with you the reasons why an electric fence tester should be an integral part of any electric fence system and also to outline the different types of tester. Electric fencing manufacturers say that an electric fencing system or kit is not complete if it doesn’t have a tester… here is why.. testing testing!
Click here to see all of our electric fence testers.
Why do you need a tester?
No one really wants to touch an electric fence - some people test the fence with a blade of grass and can feel a tingle but that just tells you the fence is on… it’s not an accurate assessment of how the fence is working. Using a tester is the only way that you will really know whether your fence is maintaining a strong pulse at the right voltage for it to be efficient.
An electric fence is a visual but weak physical barrier, however, the zap felt by livestock or a predator is a strong psychological barrier and the sensation of the fence discourages them from touching it again. If there is no zap in your fence the electric fence will not work as a deterrent.
When your electric fence is first erected test it with a tester on a regular basis. The first time you check your new fence's voltage will give you a baseline so that future checks can alert you to voltage drops and possible shorting problems. Your energiser may emit 6000 to 10,000 volts when nothing is connected to it, but the voltage level may drop when the fence is connected. Check all the way along your fence and always be on the look-out for foliage touching the fence. If electric fencing touches wood, metal, grass or foliage the voltage will be considerably reduced.
Different types of tester
There are three main types of electric fence tester.
1 Proximity Testers
A small beeper tester which detects energy from a short distance and emits a sound at the presence of power. Voltage indicators flash to show the fence is operating at an effective level. Stops flashing when voltage drops below 3000 volts.
2. Probe Testers
Six neon lights show the amount of voltage travelling through the fence – works by connecting earth to fence. Can be used to test the fence, the energiser and the earth - therefore enabling the user to single out the earthing problem.
3. Self Earthing Units
There are different types of testers that self-earth to give accurate readings. Some show voltage through LED lights or through a digital reading and the digital directional fault finder can direct the user to where the fault is on the fence.
Please Note: An ordinary volt meter will not measure the very high voltage, short pulse and may be damaged if connected across the energiser's output.
We love to talk electric fencing! So for more information on electric fencing get in touch: [email protected] or call 01620 860058. www.electricfencing.co.uk
