\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. Clenching of the hands is one of the body's natural reflexes during an. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. If its turned off, switch it back on. An electric fence tester is a device that you use to test the voltage of an electric fence. So, as long as your livestock respects the fence, you wont have to worry. Most electric fences need at least three grounding rods for the energizer to reach its full potential. This tool will measure voltage without actually touching any wires or terminals. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This is a crucial step as it helps to ensure that your fence is working effectively.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'dreamoutdoorliving_com-narrow-sky-2','ezslot_23',882,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-dreamoutdoorliving_com-narrow-sky-2-0'); To begin, turn on your fence and make sure that it is properly connected to the energizer. Connect them to the uninsulated wires so your fence can have 1,500-foot current flow intervals. If you set the fence to this level and then turn it off again, it is safe to assume that the fence is working as it should. By regularly testing and maintaining your electric fence using a multimeter, you can ensure it stays efficient and effective at keeping your livestock and property safe.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'dreamoutdoorliving_com-leader-4','ezslot_19',889,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-dreamoutdoorliving_com-leader-4-0'); When testing your electric fence with a multimeter, it is crucial to take the necessary safety precautions to avoid accidents and injuries. Last Updated: January 28, 2023 As previously mentioned, utilizing an electric fence wire is critical for a variety of reasons. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Homegearly.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Congratulations! 2. As you travel away from the energizer, you should assume a gradual decline in voltage. You can find faults and problems with your fence charger / energize. After powering on the circuit, move to your fences furthest point from the energizer. To test the electric fence use a multimeter capable of measuring voltages ranging from 750 to 6000 volts. Now, what if you dont have a manual for the electric fence or you just want to know the appropriate reading for certain use cases? You just place the tip of the tester on a fencing wire and it gives you a reading. Next, read the voltage output on your multimeter. Do not touch an electric fence with your hand or any other body part. STEP 4 - Test: Check the voltage output with your voltage tester. If you count the voltage as less than 5000, then you have to look for the causes for the decreased power supply, such as: You can tweak the voltage of your electric fence through the energizer. Keep in mind that non-contact voltmeters don't give you any information about the amount of voltage, they only reveal if there is or isn't any voltage coursing through the fence. If the electric fence is working properly, the multimeter should read what the manufacturer specifies. Are you looking to install an electric fence around your property? For more accurate measurements, some multimeters allow you to select one of the two. Additionally, any exposed wiring should be covered with protective materials such as rubber or plastic sleeves to prevent accidental contact with people or animals. For high voltage measurement, youll need a test prove. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. So if you have a 6V battery, choose 9V. Step 5: Move Blade Closer If Needed. To check the current, Turn off power source and break the circuit. Once you have established that there are no breaks in the wire, you can then proceed to check for any short circuits. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Always make sure you have installed ground rods according to the fence manufacturer's specifications. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. When testing the voltage levels, always use the proper safety precautions, including wearing protective gear, turning off the power source, and using tools that are specifically designed for electric fences. You have successfully learned how to test your electric fence using a multimeter. Keep an eye out for broken wires, damaged insulators, or any signs of wear and tear. The procedure is as simple as that, but we will describe each step further for proper understanding. First and foremost, testing ensures the safety of both your animals and those who may come in contact with the fence. You can find this in your fences manual. Some of the reasons your fence may not be carrying enough volt include; You check around the fence and make sure there isnt any material causing a leak. Keep reading to learn more! Connect the multimeter to the Ampere setting. Disconnect both the earth and fence cables from the output terminals, then check the voltage by connecting the voltmeter to these terminals. They are also useful for keeping pets in your yard without the need to leash them at all times. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. When you see kV on the multimeter screen, you know its set to kilovolts. You can also check for resistance by setting your multimeter to ohms mode. You usually see this drop in volt in the morning when there is moisture on the posts or vegetation around the fence, causing a voltage leak. Testing these posts can help determine if the energizer is properly outputting energy. It only gets a little complex when you have to determine if the volt running through the fence is enough or not. Electric fences are designed to keep animals and other pests away from a designated area by delivering a shock to any creature that touches it. The volt depends on the supply from the energizer and may either cause uncomfortable shocks, very painful zaps, or even death. By following the steps above, you can have a better understanding of your electric fences performance and take the necessary steps to address any issues. The average voltage for most electric fences is around 8,000-10,000 volts. One of my career paths started as a general handyman, so I also have a lot of experience with home improvement I love to share. Ensuring that the voltage is within an acceptable range and that there are no shorts or resistance issues will help protect your property and those who may come in contact with it. Testing Electric Fence with a digital voltmeter Valley Farm Supply 2.08K subscribers Share 51K views 5 years ago Here is a quick and easy way to check electric fencing using a digital. Nothing should come into contact with a live fence except its own equipment, such as strainers and insulators. That way, you test the actual voltage of each electric wire. 1 Use an electric fence voltmeter for the job. However, this can vary depending on the age and condition of the fence as well as environmental factors such as humidity and temperature. Manage Settings Read on for all the details! The following step is to set your voltmeter leads correctly. To know if your electric fence is holding a good amount of volt, you may check your manufacturers guide. If your readings are below 1000 ohms, its an indication of a short circuit or a weak battery, which requires immediate attention. A poorly functioning electric fence may lead to escaped animals or an increased risk of predator attacks, resulting in costly damages and lost profits. Testing Voltage with an Electric Fence Voltmeter, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b9\/Test-an-Electric-Fence-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Test-an-Electric-Fence-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/b9\/Test-an-Electric-Fence-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/aid10785309-v4-728px-Test-an-Electric-Fence-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"