Secure Your Flock: A Beginner's Guide To Electric Fencing

So, you want to free-range your chickens... but you’re afraid they’ll try to cross the road, or worse, that they’ll be left vulnerable to predators.  

You've heard about electric poultry netting, but you have questions. 🫣 

...you're not sure where to begin. 

...you've never used a voltmeter (or maybe you're thinking... wait, what on earth is a voltmeter?). 

...you want to know what you're getting yourself into before you make the investment.  

You don't have to wing it... we've got you! 🐓 

Installing and energizing an electric fence isn't as complicated as you'd think! In this blog, our EGGsperts will explain the basics.  

1. 🔎 How to select the fence and energizer that's best for your flock and your setup 

2. 💡 What accessories and supplies are needed  

3. 🥾 Where and how to install your fence 

4. ⚡ How to connect your solar or plug-in energizer 

5. 🛠️ What to do if you run into any issues  

1. Make the right choice 🔎 

There are many options on the market to fence your flock - electrified wire fences, wooden rail fences, electric netting, non-electric, and the list goes on - how do you know which fence to choose?  

If you're looking for something that's lightweight, powerful, and easy to install and customize, electric poultry netting is the way to go!  

Consider your flock (and friends) - What types of birds do you have? And do you have other animals too, such as goats, cows, or sheep?  
Our 42" tall netting is ideal for heavier birds and other animals, and our 48" tall netting is a terrific option for flighty fowl. With 2" wire spacing at the bottom, our poultry fencing provides security for chicks as young as 4 weeks old, ducks and other poultry, and larger animals.  

Evaluate your terrain and soil - Is your land open and flat, or hilly and full of brush? Is your soil dry, sandy, or rocky?  
Flexible netting with plenty of built-in posts, extra supports, and secure stakes is a must for uneven ground, and makes installation even easier for a flat yard or pasture. Dry soil is less conductive, and you'll need to use an energizer with more output, and/or extra ground rods to ensure an effective shock.  

Think about local predators - Which predators are most common, or most aggressive, in your area?  
Foxes, bears, raccoons, dogs, and more can pose a threat to your birds. Electric poultry netting can deter even larger predators, as long as the fence is properly installed and energized!
The shape and features of your fenced-in area are important considerations as well. For example, a narrow set up in an area with coverage from structures or low trees can be used to interrupt swooping aerial predators.  

Ponder your power source - Do you have an outlet near your coop, or are you off-grid?  
Plug-in energizers work well if you’ve got a reliable power source nearby. Solar energizers are perfect for remote setups.  

Measure your space - Each roll of our electric chicken netting is 168' long, providing over 1,700 sq. ft. of protection! Connect two or more rolls together if you have a larger space to enclose, or shorten the fence by cutting or doubling back if your space is smaller. 

✨️ Bonus Resource: Visit us at www.RentACoop.com to learn more about the features and benefits of RentACoop Electric Fencing.   

2. Know, before you unroll 💡 

There are a few basic supplies you will need to properly install your fence and connect your energizer. 

Must Haves: 

Grounding Rod - A grounding rod is a metal rod that is inserted into the soil and connected to your energizer. At least one grounding rod is essential for the energizer to work properly to power your fence. Think of it as the "return path" for electricity. 

Voltmeter - A voltmeter is used to measure the voltage of your fence. It’s a necessary tool for regular monitoring. 

Battery – If you’re using a solar energizer, make sure you choose the right battery – a 12V Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) battery with appropriate Amp Hours (AH) for the size of your energizer is required. Note: RentACoop’s solar energizers include a 12v SLA battery.  
 

Included with all RentACoop Electric Poultry Fencing: 

Guy Lines and Stakes - In addition to the built-in double-staked posts, you'll need guy lines to stabilize your corners, and additional metal stakes to keep your lines tight and tidy. Our Mini-Stakes are also useful for eliminating gaps and sagging, especially on uneven ground. 

Fence Repair Kit – You should always have spare wires and clips on hand, so you'll be prepared to quickly repair any accidental damage to your fence. 
 

Optional:

Insulated Wire and Wire Stripper Tool – When extra length is needed, it’s important to use heavy-duty insulated wire with the correct gauge and voltage rating (typically 14 gauge/ 20,000 volts), and a wire stripper tool to install it properly.  

Extension Cord/Adapter - If you're using a plug-in energizer, it is recommended to plug directly into a 110v weather-safe outlet. If you need a longer cord, just make sure you have the right extension cord and/or adapter for the job.  

Gate Handle Kit – For easier entry and access to your animals, grab RentACoop’s Gate Handle Kit, and create a custom-sized gate using the existing fence posts.  

3. Get it in the ground! 🥾 

Set up your fence in minutes! (Really!)