The short answer to the question “Can You Electrify a Chain Link Fence?” is yes, as long as you are careful to do so safely. At Gulf To Bay Fence, St. Petersburg’s fence company, we install many electric fences for homes and businesses. Here are some tips to keep in mind as you plan and execute your next fence installation project.
Reasons To Electrify a Chain Link Fence
Electric fences provide a robust defense of the perimeter of your home or business property. Farms, ranches, and other businesses, particularly those in rural areas, use electric fences to deter animals that could eat crops or spread disease. In areas where crimes such as vandalism are more common, electric fences and warning signs could discourage trespassers.
Risks of Electrifying a Chain Link Fence
Many jurisdictions have laws restricting the construction and operation of chain link fences. A property owner with an electric fence could face lawsuits if negligence or installation mistakes lead to the electric fence causing harm.
Installing an Electric Fence
Before you electrify your fence, measure how much fencing you need to electrify. Ask your local government and homeowner’s association about the regulations on electric fences in your area.
Decide whether you want to use a fence charger. It is possible to electrify a fence using a battery and electric fence wire, but buying a commercially available fence charger helps ensure the reliability of the equipment and provides you with instructions from the manufacturer.
Once you have materials on hand, obtain a fence charger and enough insulated wire to connect the charger to the fence and a ground wire. Mount the fence charger near the power supply or, if it is solar powered, near a location that gets regular sunlight. Keep the charger away from dirt, mud, and sources of moisture.
Connect the charger to a ground wire separate from your house, barn, garage, or other building on your property. Attach the hot wire to the fence and test it with a voltmeter.
Strategies for Electrifying a Chain Link Fence
For a permanent fence, use durable materials so you do not have to replace the wiring frequently.
Install ground wires to protect your electric fence system and anything in contact with it from power surges and lightning strikes.
Post warning signs around your fence to prevent accidental electric shocks.
Do not electrify barbed wire. Electric fences deter unwanted animals or people with brief electrical shocks on contact. If a person or pet becomes stuck on electrified fencing, the sustained electrical shock could be fatal.
For more practical tips on electric fence installation and design, consider this site from the government of the Canadian province of Manitoba, a region that supports many ranchers and farmers.
Have Gulf To Bay Fence Electrify Your Fence in St. Petersburg, FL
Can you electrify a chain link fence? Help is just a phone call away. Call Gulf To Bay Fence to speak with a professional about your next electric fencing project.