Electric Fence Gate Models that Deliver

Implementing an effective electric fence gate solution is pivotal for properties looking to securely contain livestock or deter potential intruders. When integrated properly into the perimeter fencing, electric gates provide controlled access points without compromising safety or security.

Popular Electric Fence Gate Types

Electric fence gates are available in a variety of functional designs to suit different needs and preferences:

Sliding Electric Fence Gates

Sliding gates utilize steel rollers and tracks to smoothly open and close access points up to 20 ft wide. They operate via manual push/pull or automatic electric motor. While installations have higher initial costs, sliding electric gates require very little side clearance and are convenient for frequent use.

Sliding gates can be challenging to incorporate into existing fence lines, so they are ideal for new constructions where the fence design accommodates the gate placement. The sliding mechanism allows these gates to open and close quickly for high traffic areas.

Swing Electric Fence Gates

The most common style, swing gates are hinged on one side to rotate open and closed. Single gates up to 16 ft wide offer basic functionality, while double leaf swing gates provide wider access. Though requiring significant side clearance space, these affordable options are easy to manually operate.

Swing gates are the simplest electric gate option to install and use. The hinged side mounts directly to a gate post while the latch post secures the gate when closed. They work well for small openings, but avoid oversized swing gates which can sag and become difficult to open/close.

Vertical Pivot Electric Fence Gates

Vertically pivoting electric gates lift open instead of swinging side-to-side. Counterbalanced with springs or hydraulic pumps, they rise vertically to clear fence lines and livestock enclosures while minimizing side clearance requirements. Though costly, vertical pivot gates provide unobstructed wide access.

Vertical pivot gate operation prevents clearance issues for yards with limited side space. Livestock easily pass underneath the lifted gate. While expensive, these gates are extremely durable options for ranchers needing wide access points from 20-50 ft across.

Key Features to Consider

When selecting an electric fence gate, here are key considerations that impact safety, security, and durability:

Gate Construction Materials

Electric fence gate frames are commonly constructed using wood, steel, aluminum, or vinyl. Wood frames with aluminum cladding offer an affordable option for small to medium-sized gates. For large industrial gates, steel and aluminum better withstand constant livestock impact and environmental exposure.

Wood frame electric gates provide a cost-effective choice, though regular maintenance staining and sealing is required to protect the timber from weathering. The aluminum cladding and steel hardware must be grounded to prevent dangerous voltage transferring if touched.

Automation Compatibility

Gates can integrate with electric gate openers and access control systems for convenient automatic functionality via smartphones, keypads, or remote controls. This allows remote monitoring and operation of gates through WiFi, cellular networks, or radio frequencies.

Automating electric gates improves convenience while monitoring gate activity. Consider how power loss would impact automated access when planning the system. Hardwired or battery-backup power prevents motor failure from locking gates unexpectedly.

Security Settings

Customizable gate hardware settings control access permissions, notify gate operation, ensure proper gate closure, and activate security alerts for tampering attempts. This includes gate locks, alarm systems, safety edges, photo beams, and video surveillance.

Securing electric gates prevents unauthorized entry and theft deterrence. Connect safety beam sensors to trigger alerts for people or vehicles passing through gates without credentials. Live camera feeds confirm legitimate gate usage instances.

Top Electric Fence Gate Brands

Reputable manufacturers produce heavy-duty electric fence gates designed to handle high-traffic flow in agricultural and commercial applications:

Brand A

Pros : Galvanized and powder-coated steel gates tested to over 500,000 open/close cycles. Custom automation integration available.

Cons : Expensive products. Limited wood and aluminum offerings.

Brand A utilizes industrial grade steel components to construct impenetrable swing gates able to withstand over a decade of rigorous ranch usage. Their galvanization and corrosion-resistant coatings prevent rust and deterioration.

Brand B

Pros : Cost-effective wood frame and aluminum clad gates in a variety of standard and custom sizes.

Cons : Durability concerns beyond 5-10 years. Minimal automation capabilities.

Specializing in wood and aluminum gates for cost-conscious consumers, Brand B offers short-term movable electric fencing gate solutions. Their products suffice temporarily though lack longevity compared to steel.

Installation Tips and Considerations

Proper electric gate planning, preparation, and installation ensures long-term functionality:

Ideal Locations

Gates placed at the end of livestock working facilities allow whole herds to easily move through the handling system. For perimeter fencing, allow enough clearance so fully opened gates do not obstruct traffic flow.

Consider prevailing winds, sunlight exposure, and winter shade patterns when positioning electric gates. Refrain from situating gate openings facing busy roads or along embankments where erosion undermines structural integrity.

Wiring and Power Supply

Hard-wired electric gates require sufficient power availability, either via grid electricity or solar panels with battery banks. Ensure all wiring meets local electrical codes using appropriate conduit, connectors, and gauges.

Underground low-voltage wiring prevents chewed expose wires causing shorts or voltage leaks. Utilize UL-rated direct burial cables suitable for wet conditions. Surge protection, proper grounding techniques, and GFCI receptacles enhance safety.

Integration with Perimeter Fencing

Non-conducting electric gates properly incorporated into the fence line maintain the integrity of the containment system. Fence wires attach to the gate using insulated drip legs so the system continues working despite gate operation or position.

When integrating electric gates, measure fence voltage across the gate in both open and closed states ensuring full conductivity. Properly insulate all metal gate components to prevent passive transfer of electricity if touched.

Frequently Asked Questions

Still have concerns when considering electric fence gates? Review these commonly asked questions:

What are the Maintenance Requirements?

Expect to tighten gate hardware, lubricate moving parts, inspect wiring condition, clear debris/vegetation overgrowth, replace worn components, wash/seal wood frames annually, and confirm continued fence line conductivity.

Test fence voltage monthly, watching for grounding losses and conduction drops especially following seasonal lightning storms. Keep vegetation cleared around electric gates to prevent obstructed motion and allow visibility.

What are Common Troubleshooting Issues?

Binding, corrosion, alignment loss causing dragging, poor gate closure latching, faulty operation motors, worn weather seals, loose/broken hardware, fence conductivity disruption, grounding losses, and power supply problems.

Should gate problems arise, systematically isolate factors to determine causes. Check fence voltage across the gate first to confirm conduction before assuming component failures. Refer to manufacturer troubleshooting guides when diagnosing issues.

Heed all electrified fence warnings, ground metal gate components properly, insulate/protect wiring, restrict children access, install control locks, mount warning signage, and locate fire department override keys conveniently. Fence voltage testing ensures safe exposure limits.

Exercise caution when performing maintenance on electric fence gates, disconnecting all power first. Establish safety zones protecting entrance areas, pathways, and thoroughfares to avoid accidental contact.