Grounding is a fundamental part of an electric fence system. When grounding is done correctly, it provides 50% of the circuit of the entire electric fence. If the grounding system is insufficient, electricity cannot complete a path to the charger. As a result, little or no shock is given.
If a new electric fence is not working, 80% of the time the culprit will be incorrect or improper grounding.
• For proper grounding, the electric fence charge will need to have one terminal securely connected to the fence and the other connected securely and completely to the grounding rod(s).
• The grounding rods are connected to the grounding terminal.
• An animal receives an electrical shock when it touches the fence wire and the earth simultaneously and completes the electrical path. An electrical charge passes through the animal into the earth and back to the grounding rods.
Number of Ground Rods/Conditions?
• For most electric fence systems with dirt or moist soil, one 6-8 foot grounding rod will be sufficient.
• Rocky, sandy and dry soil may require multiple grounding rods placed 10 feet apart to completely create a circuit.
• Longer electric fences often need better grounding systems, so in these cases, multiple grounding rods may be needed as well.
• For the smallest electric fence systems such as those used around a garden or flower bed, a smaller grounding rod is often sufficient to allow an animal to complete the circuit.
• Copper will carry the "charge" better, but it will usually cost more.
• Using the proper grounding clamp (Model# GRC-FS) will improve the chances of getting a good ground on your electric fence system.
• A “post pounder” is suggested to drive a 6-8 foot grounding rod into the ground. This tool should be available at the same place that you purchase your electric fence supplies. Or use a sectional ground rod.
• Be sure to connect the grounding rod to the ground terminal on the charger and not to the fence terminal or the fence wire.
Fi-Shock® electric fence systems will work for all pets and livestock when grounded properly. We're the leaders in how to ground electric fence systems.
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