There are a number of reasons for this huge drop in current. The easiest way to do it is using a multimeter. Check your manufacturers instructions to see if your electric fence is holding a good level of a volt. It is also possible that using a standard multimeter incorrectly could cause damage to the fence, making it unsafe to turn on. Disconnect both the earth and fence cables from the output terminals, then check the voltage by connecting the voltmeter to these terminals. Be sure to take all necessary safety precautions and avoid contact with metal parts while taking readings with your multimeter. This can lead to an interruption in the power supply and should be rectified immediately. In addition, testing your electric fence regularly can save you money in the long run. This tool will measure voltage without actually touching any wires or terminals. It is also important to check for any signs of wear or damage to ensure the electric fence is functioning properly. Most electric fences need at least three grounding rods for the energizer to reach its full potential. It's also good to have an expert make sure your ground wire is connected properly, as poor grounding is a major cause of electric fence malfunctions. Follow the step-by-step guide weve provided and dont forget about the safety precautions weve mentioned. Your fence is working properly if the output voltage is within the above range. Plus, regular testing can help identify any potential problems before they become more serious. To test the electric fence use a multimeter capable of measuring voltages ranging from 750 to 6000 volts. (1,2). Then, progressively reconnect the sections of the fence, checking the voltage as you go. If you have a voltmeter specifically designed for electric fences, you can use this instead of a multimeter for more accurate readings. Any voltage between 5,000 and 9,000 volts is suitable, but (when dealing with animals and cattle) the best voltage will depend on your cattles species and temperament. A multimeter is an electrical apparatus that can directly measure an electric circuits voltage difference, current, and resistance. Do you have an electric fence? Touch the black lead of the meter to a ground wire or stake, and observe the reading that appears on the display. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. A high reading could indicate that there are poor connections or loose wires, while a low reading could mean that there is too much contact between two wires and they are shorting out. Once the voltage has been tested and the wires have been checked for continuity, it is important to check the resistance of the wires. The energizer will not be able to reach its full capacity if the ground is not adequately prepared. First, set your multimeter to the kilovolts (kV) range and ground the negative probe. How to Test an Electric Fence with a Multimeter (Updated 2022) The voltmeter may begin to glow with a steady red light and beep, indicating a charge. A standard electricians voltmeter or electronic multimeter can be used to measure the current and voltage levels of an electric fence.
