Winter is just around the corner, and it's imperative to assess the state of your electric fence, especially if you have animals in your pasture. Winter brings unique challenges, such as thicker fur on animals, diminishing pasture grass, and issues with electric fences due to ice and snow. Here's a guide on how to thoroughly inspect and get your fences ready for the winter season:

  1. Survey Trees and Vegetation: During the autumn, take a thorough walk along your fence line. Ensure there are no branches or excessive leaves leaning against your fence, as they can compromise its effectiveness and lead to issues.
  2. Address Permanent Repairs: Any hasty repairs made during the summer should be revisited and thoroughly resolved before winter. Make certain all structural problems and damages are adequately fixed.
  3. Organize Your Fencing Equipment: Always have an ample supply of spare parts and tools on hand, ready to address unexpected repairs promptly and efficiently.
  4. Consider Switches: In areas prone to heavy snowfall, consider installing switches. These switches allow you to deactivate the lower wire when there's a significant snow build-up while keeping the rest of the fence functioning properly.
  5. Store Mobile Fences: If you don't intend to use mobile fences in the winter, store them properly. Use a reel to easily rewind the electric fence. You can find cost-effective reels with separate drums to keep your fence well-organized.
  6. Check Batteries: Cold weather can shorten the life of batteries. Regularly inspect your devices in the winter to ensure they have enough power to operate the fence effectively.
  7. Inspect Connections: Particularly during wet weather, connections are more prone to sparking, which can lead to conductors burning out. Revisit the connections in the fence to prevent potential problems.
  8. Monitor Wire Voltage: Rain, snow, wind, or sleet can cause the wire to sag and shift, increasing strain and wear. Ensure that the wire is securely clamped to avoid these issues.

Checking and maintaining your fences before winter is essential not only for the safety of your animals but also for the longevity of your fencing. By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared for the winter season, with the confidence that your fence will continue to perform its role, regardless of the challenging weather conditions.