When installing an electric fence for your horses, deciding on the voltage can be difficult. There are a few different factors which might affect the right voltage for your fence. While experts can give a recommended range, this could differ depending on your animal, the length of fence and surrounding vegetation. This article will explore what voltage you should choose for your horse’s electric fence.
What Voltage is Used For
Electric fencing is a safe and cost-effective method to keep your horses contained in a certain area. The voltage acts as a deterrent to stop them from crossing a boundary or can be used in paddocks to stop horses from grazing in particular areas. In some cases, voltage is used to prevent horses from chewing or leaning and therefore damaging the existing fencing.
The Difference Between Volts and Joules
Volts refers to the electrical pressure, whereas joules describe the unit of energy per pulse and determines how far and through what resistance the charge can travel. Together, both units make the fence effective.
What’s the Recommended Voltage for Electric Fencing
The minimum voltage for electric fences should be at least 2,000 volts in order to penetrate the horse’s coat. In winter, when their coat is longer, it may need to be even higher.
On average, experts recommend 2,000-3,000 volts. To be strong enough as a deterrent, 3,000 volts is more ideal. If the fence is longer or surrounded by heavy vegetation, starting at slightly higher 4,000-5,000 volts will ensure the fence delivers a sufficient shock at each end.
When to Use Higher Voltage
If your fence is surrounded by excess vegetation, it’s recommended to start with a higher voltage of 4,000-5,000 volts. This is because any vegetation touching the fence will bleed off the voltage, making it weaker.
Additionally, if you’re dealing with a longer run, more resistance can build up, so a higher voltage is advisable to ensure its effectiveness is maintained. If you’re trying to contain multiple animals, extra voltage will also be required as larger herds are more likely to test fences often, reducing the charge.
Is More Voltage Better?
Overall, the consistency is more important than the strength of voltage. It’s better for a fence to consistently measure the same voltage across lines, instead of dropping in one part and being high in another.
Introducing a Horse to an Electric Fence
When introducing your horse to an electric fence, it’s important they see and understand the boundary. For visibility, coated wire and rail are easier for horses to see. This will reduce the chance of your horse becoming tangled or injured.
For the first introduction, do it in daylight so the fencing is visible. Placing hay near to the fence can provide incentive for the horses to explore it. Horses will learn by association, usually touching the fence once or maybe twice before they connect the electric shock with the fence and avoid it.
At Norton’s Fencing, we offer traditional paddock fencing, 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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