How to Test Your Electric Fence

This lesson demonstrates a simple and effective hack for testing the functionality of an electric fence without specialized tools. Learn how to identify if your fence is properly working or if it’s being grounded out by external factors like weeds, brush, or contact with posts.

Key Topics Covered:

• Common Electric Fence Issues
  • Electric fences often fail due to grounding caused by:
    • Weeds or brush touching the wire.
    • Contact with fence posts.
    • Other environmental factors like insects landing on the wire.
• Why Regular Testing is Important
  • Ensures your fence is functioning to keep your goats secure.
  • Helps you identify and address issues before they lead to escapes.
• The Grass Blade Testing Hack
  • Find a wide, green blade of grass.
  • Stand a safe distance from the wire and place the grass blade across the electric wire.
  • Observe the following:
    • If you feel a pulse in your hand while the grass is still several inches from your fingers, the fence is working well.
    • If you must bring your hand very close to the wire to feel anything, the fence is only partially functional or grounded.
• Safety Tips When Testing
  • Wear rubber-soled shoes or boots (avoid going barefoot to reduce conductivity).
  • Be cautious when testing with wet grass or in damp conditions as it increases conductivity.
• Interpreting Results
  • Strong Pulse: Indicates the fence is working effectively.
  • Weak Pulse: Suggests the fence is grounded or losing charge due to an issue like vegetation or contact with posts.

Conclusion:

Testing your electric fence doesn’t require expensive tools. A simple blade of grass can help you quickly determine if your fence is functioning properly. By regularly checking your fence and addressing grounding issues, you can ensure it remains effective in keeping your goats secure. This easy, cost-free method is a reliable way to maintain the integrity of your electric fencing system.