When it comes to securing your property or containing your livestock, choosing the right electric fence wire is crucial. But with so many options available, how do you know which one is the best for your needs? Is the commonly used 14 gauge wire really the most suitable choice? Let’s explore the different electric fence wire solutions and find out.
Key Takeaways:
- Poly Wire, Poly Tape, and Poly Braid are popular choices for temporary and portable fences.
- High Tensile Wire is ideal for permanent fences over large areas.
- Turbo products offer enhanced conductivity for long temporary fences.
- Equine Fence Wire is specifically designed for horses.
- The wire gauge and materials play a significant role in the effectiveness of the electric fence.
Considerations When Choosing Electric Fence Wire Gauge
The wire gauge plays a crucial role in determining the performance and effectiveness of your electric fence. When selecting the right electric fence wire gauge, it’s important to consider factors such as the size of the animals you are containing, the distance the electricity needs to travel, and the desired level of conductivity.
Importance of Wire Gauge
The wire gauge refers to the thickness of the wire. The larger the gauge number, the thinner the wire. In the case of electric fences, a thicker wire with a lower gauge number is generally preferred as it offers less resistance to the flow of electricity, resulting in a stronger and more efficient shock.
Most electric fences use 14 or 17 gauge wire. The 14 gauge electric fence wire is thicker and more suitable for containing larger animals such as cows, sheep, and goats. On the other hand, the 17 gauge wire is thinner and better suited for smaller animals.
Different Types of Electric Fence Wire
When it comes to electric fence wire, there are several options available, each with its own advantages:
- Steel wire: Steel wire is a durable option that can last a lifetime. It is capable of carrying a charge over long distances, making it suitable for larger properties. However, it may require additional maintenance to prevent rust.
- Aluminum wire: Aluminum wire is a lightweight and flexible option that conducts a stronger electrical charge compared to steel wire. It is easy to work with and doesn’t rust, but it may not be as durable as steel wire.
- High tensile wire: High tensile wire is a popular choice for containing livestock and keeping predators out. It is commonly available in 12-12.5 gauge stainless steel and offers both strength and durability.
Poly Fencing Options
In addition to metal wire, there are also poly fencing options available for electric fences. These poly wires, poly ropes, and poly tapes are made of a combination of plastic and metal conductors, offering strength and visibility. They are suitable for both temporary and permanent fencing needs and provide a lightweight and flexible alternative to traditional wire.
Remember, when choosing the electric fence wire gauge, it’s essential to consider the specific needs of your fencing project, including the type and size of animals, distance, and desired conductivity. By selecting the right wire gauge, you can ensure the effectiveness and longevity of your electric fence system.
Electric Fence Solutions in Kenya for Enhanced Security
When it comes to enhancing security in Kenya, Electric Fences Kenya offers a wide range of electric fence solutions that provide reliable protection. Whether you’re securing a residential, commercial, or agricultural property, electric fences are a highly effective deterrent against intruders.
One popular option is the Top Wall Electric Fence, which combines the strength of stone perimeter walls with the added security of razor wire. These fences typically stand between 1 to 1.5 meters tall, providing a formidable barrier to potential trespassers.
For more flexibility, freestanding electric fences are an excellent choice. Starting from ground level, these fences can reach a height of 2.2 meters and utilize posts driven into the ground to support the wires. With their versatility and customizable configurations, these fences can be tailored to suit various security needs.
To power the electric fences, Electric Fence Energizer Machines are essential. Leading brands like JVA, Nemtek, Stafix, Gallagher, and Hammer offer reliable energizer machines that ensure a consistent and powerful electric charge. Additionally, proper installation of electric fence wires with the appropriate tension and insulation is crucial to maximize their effectiveness.
Electric Fence Cables are specifically designed to transfer the charge from the energizer to the wires and back. With their ability to handle high voltages, these cables play a vital role in maintaining a strong and reliable electrical circuit. Grounding rods are also essential components in completing the electrical circuit, guaranteeing the proper functioning of the electric fence system.
Commercial security fences offer tailored solutions to address site-specific risks. With their exceptional ability to protect commercial properties from vandalism and break-ins, these fences provide unparalleled site protection.
Electric fences in Kenya offer a comprehensive security solution that can be monitored onsite and offsite, providing an additional layer of safety. Whether it’s for residential, commercial, or agricultural purposes, these electric fence solutions from Electric Fences Kenya ensure peace of mind and enhanced security for your property.
FAQ
What is Poly Wire and what is it used for?
Poly Wire is a popular choice for portable/temporary fencing. It is made of plastic strands and embedded thin metal wires, offering visibility and convenience for temporary fencing solutions.
What is Poly Tape and when should I use it?
Poly Tape threads individual strands of plastic and wire together, creating a highly visible ribbon. It is suitable for perimeter fences and areas with strong winds.
What is Poly Braid and why is it considered superior?
Poly Braid is a superior construction to Poly Wire and Poly Tape, with individual strands of plastic and wire braided together. It is more durable and less prone to tangles and overstretching.
What is High Tensile Wire suitable for?
High Tensile Wire is suitable for permanent fences over large areas, but not ideal for fast-moving animals. It is available in galvanized steel and aluminum options, offering strength and low maintenance.
What are Turbo products and when should I use them?
Turbo products have enhanced conductivity compared to Poly products, making them suitable for long temporary fences for maximum livestock control.
What is Equine Fence Wire and who is it designed for?
Equine Fence Wire is designed specifically for horses, with a long life and high tension for safety.
What are the advantages of different electric fence conductors?
Each type of conductor has its own advantages and uses, depending on the fencing needs and the type of animals being contained.
How does wire gauge affect electric fence performance?
The wire gauge is an important consideration when selecting electric fence wire. The larger the diameter of the wire, the more surface area available for electricity to travel, resulting in less resistance.
What gauge wire is commonly used for electric fences?
Most electric fences use 14 or 17 gauge wire, with 14 gauge being thicker and suitable for larger animals such as cows, sheep, and goats. Smaller gauge wire is better suited for smaller animals.
What are the benefits of steel wire and aluminum wire?
Steel wire is a durable option that lasts a lifetime and can carry a charge over a long distance. Aluminum wire conducts a stronger electrical charge and is flexible and easy to work with.
Is high tensile wire suitable for electrified fences?
Yes, high tensile wire is great for containing livestock and keeping predators out, especially when electrified. It is commonly available in 12-12.5 gauge stainless steel.
What are the advantages of using poly fencing options?
Poly fencing options, such as Polywire, Polyrope, and Polytape, offer strength, visibility, and versatility for both temporary and permanent fencing needs.
Do electric fences offer enhanced security in Kenya?
Yes, electric fences in Kenya are an ideal security solution as they can be monitored onsite and offsite, enhancing the overall security of the property.
What are the types of electric fences commonly used in Kenya?
Electric Fences Kenya provides a range of electric fence solutions, including Top Wall Electric Fences supported by stone perimeter walls and freestanding electric fences that start from ground level.
Can electric fences be integrated with alarm systems?
Yes, electric fences can be integrated with intruder alarm systems for enhanced security.
Which brands offer Electric Fence Energizer Machines?
Electric Fence Energizer Machines are available from brands like JVA, Nemtek, Stafix, Gallagher, and Hammer.
What other components are essential for electric fences?
Electric Fence wires, cables, and grounding rods are essential components that ensure the proper functioning of electric fences.
Are commercial security fences suitable for commercial properties?
Yes, commercial security fences are customized to address site-specific risks, providing unparalleled site protection. They are ideal for protecting commercial properties from vandalism and break-ins.