Electrical Gate and Fence Installation Services FAQs

Mr. Handyman has been helping homeowners repair, maintain, and enhance their spaces for over 25 years! We are the one-stop solution for everything on your to-do list. This includes answering your questions about home repairs, maintenance, and improvements. Here are answers to some of your most frequently asked questions about electrical gate and fence installation.

What can I expect during an electric gate installation?

Your service professional will first determine if any permits are needed. If so, these must be obtained before installation begins.

In most cases, the installation process begins with an assessment to choose the best placement for your gate based on the layout of your property, your home or the position of your garage, and your personal preference. Once the location of the electric gate is determined, the installation process proceeds as follows:

  1. Installing the motor and control system
  2. Digging trenches to install power cables or wiring
  3. Attaching the gate’s arms to your existing fence or support columns
  4. Installing safety features like photocells to prevent damage or injury when operating the gate
  5. Installing and programming remote control systems
  6. Hanging the gate on support posts or existing fencing

Once the gate is installed, the system is tested to ensure it operates smoothly before cleaning up the worksite.

What type of electric fence is right for me?

Choosing the right electric fence depends on numerous factors. Some are designed for privacy, while others are geared toward those who need to contain livestock or other animals. Consider the following questions to help narrow down your choice.

  • What purpose will my electric fence serve?

Electric fence options range from underground and wire fences that keep pets contained within certain areas of your property to heavy-duty fences created to restrict the movement of livestock and other large animals. Some are designed to meet privacy and security needs, which may be constructed of wood, vinyl, or another material. They may also include electric elements, such as a gate you can open using a remote control.

  • What’s the price range for an electrical fence?

Installing certain types of electric fences, like those designed for pets or a small fence around a home garden, are typically more affordable than installing a privacy fence around your entire property or an automatic gate at the end of your driveway. Most electrical fences range between $1000 to $3000, which translates to about $2 to $7 per linear foot. The final cost depends on the type of fence you choose, the size of the area, and complexity of the installation.

  • Do I want privacy or an unobstructed view?

This is a matter of personal preference. Underground electrical fencing provides a barrier around your property that helps keep pets and animals confined without blocking your view. On the other hand, a privacy fence reduces your view but also minimizes road noise and prevents others from seeing or accessing your property.

  • Do I need access through an electric gate?

Consider whether you’ll want an electric gate added to your fence to allow for easy, remote access.

What amount of voltage do I need for my electric fence?

The voltage needed for electric fences and gates varies depending on the purpose of the fence and the type of fence or gate installed. Electric fences designed to contain animals will need electricity ranging from 5,000 to 8,000 volts. This level of voltage will shock a person or animal and encourage them to back away but is not designed to harm people, pets, or livestock.

An electric gate installed at your home or business may only need 12 to 24 volts, providing enough power for the gate to open and close. In rare cases, some heavier-duty gates may need up to 115 volts to operate. Talk with an experienced local service professional to determine what type of voltage is required for your gate or fence.

What type of maintenance is required for an electric fence?

When properly installed and cared for, electric fences and gates can last for years without any major problems. Consider the following tips to keep your electric gate and fence in tip-top shape:

  • Test the safety features: Routinely check the photocell system and safety features, like the auto-reverse function, to reduce the risk of accidents.
  • Keep your fence and gate clean: Dirt, leaves, organic matter, and dust and debris can build up along your gate system or around your fence. Keep the area clean and tidy by using a rake or broom to sweep away debris. If dirt accumulates, you can use soap and water to clean the gate. Just remember to shut off the electricity before doing so to prevent electric shock.
  • Watch for rust: Keep an eye out for rust development on your fencing or gate system. If you notice it, use sandpaper or a heavy wire brush to remove the buildup. Then, apply a rust converter followed by rust-preventing paint to reduce the risk of more corrosion.
  • Check for signs of loose wiring: While professionals should always handle electrical repairs, you can still inspect your electric fence and gate system for potential issues. Look for visible loose or broken wires and be aware of signs like buzzing noises, inconsistent gate operation, or an unresponsive remote control. If you notice any of these, contact a qualified technician to address the problem safely.
  • Protect the components from moisture: Make sure the electrical components of your electric gate and fence are properly weatherproofed and sealed to prevent moisture damage.
  • Lubricate moving parts: Finally, routinely apply lubricant to the moving pieces of your gate, such as the hinges, tracks, and rollers. This helps keep your gate operating smoothly while reducing friction.

You can also schedule routine maintenance services from a local installation team.

Is an electric fence easy to install?

Determining whether you can DIY electric fence installation depends on the type of electric fence you want to install. Digging trenches for an underground fence is relatively simple, though it may require considerable time and effort depending on the size of the area you are fencing. Installing a privacy fence around your property and outfitting it with an electric gate requires some experience and expertise to ensure everything fits precisely and works properly when the installation is complete.

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