How To Electrify A Vinyl Split Rail Fence For Livestock

**Disclaimer: Please note that electrifying a vinyl fence could cause any warranty to be voided. No matter what you read here, you should always consult the warranty documentation you were given to see exactly what is covered in your situation.

The entire purpose of ranch fencing for livestock is to keep animals safe and to also keep those same animals from wandering into areas that they shouldn’t. While some livestock only requires a visual and physical barrier to contain them, others require a psychological barrier as well. Electrifying a vinyl fence is one way to provide a psychological barrier.

Here’s What You Need To Electrify A Vinyl Fence

Typically, the following supplies are needed to for the electrification process:

Electric wire
Energizer/Charger
Insulators
Connection Bolts
Grounding Rods
Electric Fence Tester
Safety Signs

In addition to this, make sure that the proper safety gear is available for all involved in the installation.

How To Install Electric Wire On A Vinyl Fence

Here’s a step by step guide to electrifying a vinyl fence:

Step One: Install The Fence Charger

The energizer is essentially the heart of your electric fence system. It provides the power that will make the fence work and should be appropriate for the length of the fence and the type of livestock. The energizer should be installed in a dry location, away from moisture and direct sunlight. The charger should also be accessible to a ground rod system.

Do not turn the charger on until you are ready to test.

Step Two: Run The Wire Along The Fence

Using the appropriate insulators, attach the wire to the fence posts. Make sure that the insulators are securely attached to the posts so that the wire does not come loose. Next, the electric fence wire should be run along the top of the fence, about 6 inches from the top. This will help to keep animals from jumping over the fence.

Be sure to leave excess wire to attach to the charger.

Step Three: Install The Grounding System

When it comes to grounding systems, the general rule of thumb is use one 6’ – 8’ ground rod per joule output of energy. Grounding rods should be spaced ten feet apart. Use insulated cable to connect the rods to the fence charger and to each other.

Step Four: Test The Charger and the Fence

Before connecting the wire to the fence, turn on the charger and use a tester to check the voltage. Voltage should read between 4,000 and 5,000 volts. Then, connect the wire and test again. It should still read between 4,000 and 5,000 volts. Be sure to check the furthest point on the fence as well.

Step Five: Train The Animals

Animals need to understand that touching the fence will result in a shock. Introduce them and supervise them during daytime hours until they understand. This can take 2-3 days.

Shop For A New Vinyl Livestock Fence

If you’re shopping for a new split rail or ranch style fence for your livestock, be sure to shop in our online store. Two, three, and four-rail fences are available in white, black, clay, almond, and woodtone. For product information or a custom quote, contact our sales team.