Is There Enough Bite on Your Gallagher Electric Fence?
Is There Enough Bite on Your Gallagher Electric Fence?
Keeping your electric fence in top condition is crucial for the safety of your animals and the security of your pasture. A Gallagher electric fence with insufficient voltage can lead to breakouts, injuries, and even equipment damage.
The good news is that checking your fence's voltage is a quick and easy process that takes just seconds each week. This simple step can save you a lot of hassle and ensure your animals are properly contained.
Why Strong Voltage Matters
When the voltage on your Gallagher fence dips too low, it increases the risk of:
Animal Breakout: This can lead to animals escaping and creating dangerous situations, causing property damage, or becoming a nuisance.
Accidental Entanglement: Animals who touch a weak fence are more likely to get stuck, potentially causing injuries.
Fence Damage: Animals that aren't effectively deterred by the fence are more likely to rub or chew on it, damaging components. This can lead to costly repairs and further compromise fence integrity.
Gallagher's Recommended Voltage Levels
For optimal performance, it is recommended to maintain a minimum voltage of:
3.5 kV: To keep your animals safely inside the fence.
4.5 kV: To deter unwanted wild animals from entering your property.
How Often to Test Your Gallagher Fence
A comprehensive fence check performed annually is ideal for keeping your fence in top condition. However, regular voltage checks are crucial throughout the year.
Weekly: Under normal weather conditions.
Twice Weekly: During dry periods.
After Strong Winds: To identify any wind-related damage.
When Moving Animals to a New Pasture: Before introducing animals to a new area.
For Battery-Powered Energisers: More frequent testing, especially as battery life diminishes.
Find Your Perfect Match
Gallagher offers a variety of testers to suit your needs and budget. Here's a breakdown of some popular options:
Basic Testers: These entry-level testers simply indicate if the fence is electrified. Ideal for quick checks.
Voltage & Earthing Testers: These measure voltage (kV) and earthing quality, helping diagnose common problems like poor grounding. Essential for maintaining optimal performance.
Fault Detection Testers: These advanced testers measure voltage (kV) and current (amperes), pinpointing potential issues like short circuits caused by worn insulators. Ideal for proactive maintenance and troubleshooting.
Here at Tanner Trading, we are a leading supplier of Gallagher products and offer a wide range of resources to help you choose the right fencing system for your needs and ensure its optimal performance.