If you’re considering electric fencing for your horses, you may be wondering more about the benefits of it, how many volts it should be and how far apart the electric fence posts should be. There is a certain “art” to electric fencing, but we’re here to help with all the answers you need to help make your decision.
Why Do Horse Owners Use Electric Fencing?
There are many reasons to use electric fencing as a horse owner. The first is that it’s an incredibly safe option because it provides a type of psychological barrier as well as a physical one that reduces the likelihood that your horse will be able to break through.
Don’t worry about whether the small electric shock they receive if they touch the fence is harmful though, it’s more of a quick reminder that going beyond a certain point is a bad idea. It’s also a much safer option than nasty barbed wire which can cause injury to your horse rather than protect them!
Electric fencing is also a very cost-effective method because it is cheaper to buy and much easier to install than traditional fence posts.
Lastly, electric fencing is ideal for horse owners because of the flexibility that it offers. This type of fencing can be easily moved around, sectioning off a specific area or paddock that is too muddy or icy, or creating a better area to graze, depending on the season.
How Many Volts Should Electric Fencing Be?
A charge of between 3000-6000 volts is generally recommended for electric fencing for horses. It is advised that owners increase the voltage depending on how spirited the horse in question is, with fences for those that are partially determined not to be enclosed by a fence going up to a max of 6000 volts.
How Far Apart Should Electric Fence Posts Be Compared to Other Types of Fence Posts?
Compared to other types of fence posts, like post and rail or wire mesh, electric fence posts should be placed close together. Post and rail and wire mesh fencing usually need a minimum of around 10 m distance between each post. While electric fence posts need to be placed around 8m apart, and even closer if the ground they are placed in is uneven.
Placing electric fence posts 8m apart will help keep the wire taught and the electric current flowing, ensuring maximum efficiency.
Electric Fencing From Norton’s Fencing
Family-run and over 40 years old, Norton’s Fencing is a great choice for all your electric paddock fencing and traditional paddock fencing needs. When you choose us for your fencing, you’ll get the highest quality, reliable materials and the highest standard of service.
We are also an approved partner and installer of De Sutter Naturally Gates & Fencing in Ireland and the United Kingdom, offering traditional paddock fencing and working with you to design, plan and install the perfect space for your horses.
Contact us today to discuss your requirements.
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