If you are using an electric fence system on your land, you will need to install electric fence insulators. These important components serve a very important purpose in your electric fence. Without electric fence insulators, you run the risk of the charged wire coming into contact with another conductor and sending the charge elsewhere. With electric fence insulators you can easily continue the wire from post to post without worrying about losing the charge.
What Type of Electric Fence Insulators Do You Need?
The type of electric fence insulators required by your fencing system depends on two main factors. These are the type of post you are using and the type and gauge of the wire involved. Electric fence insulators come in a wide variety of sizes and shapes, including insulators intended specifically for use on corners.
If you are using fiberglass posts, you may not need electric fence insulators as fiberglass does not conduct electricity. It is still a good idea to use a small insulator, however, for placement of the wire. Wood can conduct electricity when wet, and of course metal posts are the most likely culprit for conducting a charge and require heavy use of electric fence insulators at the post.
Electric fence insulators for wood posts will need to be bolted on to the post. These come in a variety of sizes that can handle any type of wire you might be using. Easy to use snap-on plastic insulators will work well with metal posts and don’t require bolting or nailing on. Universal electric fence insulators are a great choice if you are unsure of which type to purchase. Be sure that the openings on the insulators you select are wide enough to accommodate the width of your wire, especially if you use polytape wire, which is wider and needs a larger opening.
Installation of Electric Fence Insulators
Your electric fence insulators should be installed when you build your electric fence. Corner insulators especially require wiring that needs to be done at the time of the fence installation. Make certain that you have enough insulators for the number of posts you are using as well as the number of wires in the fence. It is important to line up all of the electric fence insulators at the same height, so it is a good idea to mark the location on the posts before you begin to ensure accuracy.
The number of wires you use and the height of the wiring depends on the type of animal you want to contain with your fence. Ensure you have all of the materials you need before you begin, as it is difficult to make changes later.
Electric fence insulators will ensure that your electric fence functions properly and that you don’t lose your charge to conductive materials in the posts. They also help you to line up your wires properly and keep them at the right height. Choosing the right electric fence insulators and installing them properly will keep your fence safe and working perfectly for a long time.
