How to Make an Electric Fence Gate

Electric fences are an effective and widely used solution for keeping livestock secure while allowing for flexible access points. However, ensuring that you have a properly installed electric fence gate is just as important as the fence itself. Whether you need a gate for easy access, livestock movement, or for your vehicles, there are several practical options to suit different farming needs. 

Choosing the right solution for your farm

When selecting an electric fence gate, you must consider the type of access required and the frequency of use. Most of the solutions are quite affordable and easy to install, so great if you are looking for a quick solution. Here are some of the most common electric fence gate solutions we recommend for any farmer looking to create field gates.  

Automatic Retractable Gate Reel

Ideal for frequently used gateways where quick and easy access is needed. Works like a spring-loaded retractable reel, keeping the gate wire or tape neatly stored when open. Particularly useful for fields where you frequently move livestock or drive vehicles through. One of our customers, a dairy farmer in Devon, installed this at their milking parlour entrance, allowing for swift cow movement while keeping the fence intact. 

Elastic Gate Set

A highly flexible and cost-effective option that ensures consistent tension and conductivity. Easy to install, making it an excellent choice for temporary grazing areas or rotational paddocks. Stretches to accommodate different gate widths. For instance, many sheep farmers rely on these gates to rotate grazing areas efficiently, ensuring quick movement between fields. The elasticity of the gate allows for effortless opening and closing, even when working with large flocks. The elastic wire is easy to adjust at different touch points and lengths. 

Gate Springs for Grazing Fences

Designed for lightweight electric fences used in grazing management. A practical choice for farmers who need to move livestock between pastures.Easy to hook and unhook, allowing quick opening and closing.  One of our customers owns a mixed livestock farm in Wales. They prefer to use our gate springs to easily section off pastures while keeping sheep and cattle separate when necessary. They can create new divisions within the fields, allowing for better-controlled grazing and improved pasture recovery where the grass has mostly been eaten up. 

Electrified Steel Gate

A robust and permanent solution for main access points where a stronger gate is needed. Provides a highly visible and effective barrier for livestock and vehicles.Suitable for long-term paddock divisions or farmyard entrances. A beef farm in Scotland uses our electrified steel gates at main entrances, ensuring that both large machinery and cattle remain secure within designated grazing areas. The durability of these gates is especially useful during calving season, where keeping cattle secure yet accessible is crucial for monitoring and assistance purposes.

Installing an electric fence gate

Once you’ve chosen the right type of gate for your needs, installation is the next crucial step. Here’s a general guide to setting up a functional and safe electric fence gate:

1. Ensure Easy Access: Position the gate in a practical location, considering traffic flow for livestock and vehicles such as tractors or farm trucks. Also assess the width of your desired gate and place posts accordingly. 
2. Choose a Sturdy Gate Post: There is more activity like pulling and stretching at gates. We therefore recommend using solid wooden or metal gate posts to ensure durability and stability, especially for frequently used access points.
3. Insulate the Gate Properly: Prevent power loss by using insulated gate handles and connections. Poor insulation can lead to weak shocks and inefficient fencing.
4. Maintain Continuity of Power: When the gate is closed, it should complete the circuit. Use gate break handles or underground cable connections to maintain power across the fence.
5. Test the Voltage: After installation, use a fence tester to ensure the gate is properly electrified and functioning effectively.

Find the right gate solution for your needs

At Electric Fence Online, we offer a range of electric fence gate solutions to suit various farm and livestock management needs. Whether you require a simple Elastic Gate Set for rotational grazing or a heavy-duty Electrified Steel Gate for farm entrances, we have the right product for you. Explore our full range of electric fence gates and accessories today.