How to Tell If an Electric Fence Is Working
Because electric current is invisible to the naked eye, it can be difficult to determine whether an electric fence is powered. The safest way to test this is to purchase an electric fence tester, which is available at most hardware stores. However, many electric fence owners rely on a time-tested home method. Although it may seem intimidating, it is important to remember that the No. 1 danger associated with an electric fence is fire, not electrocution. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Long, plastic-handled, insulated screwdriver
- Rubber gloves (recommended)
- Goggles (recommended)
Instructions
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Put on the rubber gloves and safety goggles. Approach the fence cautiously and locate a fence post where you are going to administer the test.
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Hold the screwdriver exclusively on the insulated, plastic handle, and place the long metal end against the top of the fence post. Try to make the point of contact as near as possible to the handle.
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Still holding the plastic handle, carefully tilt the screwdriver downward, and touch the tip of it to the actual fence wire. There should be a solid point of contact with both the post and the wire.
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If the fence is active, there should be a visible arc in the screwdriver's end. It is also possible that a few sparks will appear. Some insulated screwdrivers even have small lights embedded in the handles, which would light up at this point.
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Tips & Warnings
This procedure can also be used to test the charger of the electric fence. Electric fence testers are a far more safe and effective method, and they are not terribly expensive either. This method is intended for adults only.
There is an obvious element of danger involved anytime you are dealing with live electricity. Only adults should perform the procedure listed above. Do not attempt to touch a blade of grass or weed to the fence, as this test is both unsafe and inaccurate. While it is highly unlikely that any serious injury would occur from the weak current level of an electric fence, it is always prudent to practice safe habits. Because fire is a far larger risk than electrocution, avoid touching the fence with any dry or flammable items, such as pine needles and grass.
