What you Need for a Permanent Electric Fence

Permanent fences are a recommended long term fencing solution. Compared to conventional non-electric fencing, Gallagher permanent power fence systems are economical, easy to install and operate, and require less maintenance, due to minimal physical contact with animals.

Electric Fence Energizer
To choose the correct energizer refer to the energizer information charts.

The Earthing System
The earthing system refers to the galvanised metal stakes that are placed in the earth near the energizer. The metal stakes in the ground are part of the circuit that is completed when the animal touches the wire. The completion of the circuit is what allows the animal to get a shock. It is essential to have an effective earthing system. Important factors to remember are:

1. Soil conditions
   Soil that is very dry, sandy or pumice will not conduct the electric current as effectively as clay or slightly damp soil. In these less than ideal conditions, it is more difficult to get an adequate earth system to ensure the animal receives the maximum shock. It is best to choose a damp area for earth installation where possible.
2. The 4.3.2.1 earthing rule
   This general rule suggests you use a minimum of FOUR galvanised stakes such as Kiwitah earth stakes placed THREE meters apart from each other, each TWO metres long (underground) and connected by ONE continuous wire. It is also important to place the earthing system as close as possible to the energizer and at least 10 meters from any power supply, earth stake, underground telephone or power cable.

The Lead Out
The lead out is the high conductive insulated cable or wire that connects the energizer to the fence. It is important to have a lead out that is able to deliver the full power of the energizer to the fence. If the fence is several hundred meters from the building where the energizer is installed cable should be used to get the power to the outside of the building.

The Well Insulated Fence
It is important for your fence to be well insulated to ensure the voltage remains constant along your entire fence system. Insulators, which are attached to the fence posts, provide protection from losing voltage as a result of the wire coming into contact with the wooden post and being lost to the ground, i.e. ‘shorting out’. Gallagher insulators feature long leakage paths and protective shields to achieve optimum performance from today's high powered energizers (excluding G68304 and G68404). The plastic insulators are made from UV stabilised polymers for sun resistance, toughness and durability.

The Fence Itself
Build the fence with all wires electrified to control your animal type. As a guide, the smaller the animal the more wires required. Cattle 1-3 wires, sheep 4-5 wires. The quality of the fence will determine its effectiveness. Gallagher components will ensure your permanent fence will perform in all situations. Details of design and requirements are in the Gallagher Power Fence Manual.

Offset Brackets
To protect conventional non-electric fences from stock damage, attach offset brackets and an electrified wire to the side of the fence. This wire can also be used for running leadout power to portable fence systems that can help conserve pasture by limiting pasture available to stock.