How An Electric Fence Works

There are three types of electric fence powered by electric grid, solar and battery. Each type of electric fence relies on a charger to convert the charge into a safe form of electricity.

As explained, an electric fence converts battery or solar power into high voltage pulses. Early alternating current (AC) fence chargers use a transformer and a mechanically-driven switch to generate the electrical pulses. The pulses were wide and the voltage unpredictable, with no-load peaks in excess of 10,000 volts and a rapid drop in voltage as the fence leakage increased.

The electric fence energizer transfers the pulse to a fence insulator that will give the deer the 'shock.' This usually transfers a response in less than 3 seconds. When the wild animal, be it deer or rodent, makes contact with the fence, the animal will quickly pull away from the fence.

It is a common practice to switch off electric fences at times of extreme fire danger and during fire bans near state parks. When sparks jump from one wire to another in the presence of dry vegetation, electric fences can cause fire. Check with local state parks and park rangers to learn if a fire ban is in-effect. And, no, electric fences will not kill you - but please, don't touch them. Although they are designed to not kill you or wildlife animals, the idea is that a small jolt will "pinch" you hard enough to advise you not to proceed further. Use caution; and KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.

How An Electric Fence Works

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