Over 80% of all electric fence problems are attributed to poor grounding, so it is very important to understand how to install an effective ground system. There are two recommended grounding systems, earth ground return and fence ground return.
EARTH GROUND RETURN
In this system, all the fence wires are “live”. The circuit is completed when the animal touches the wire, the electrons flow through the animal and then through the earth to the grounding system and back to the controller.
Earth Ground Return
Installation:
Select a sight which is damp (i.e. conductive) year round. Drive a minimum of (3) 3/4″ galvanized ground rods into the ground at least 10 feet apart. The larger the controller, the more rods you will need. Connect the ground rods to the ground terminal on the controller.
Live Wire Products offers the components needed to properly install this type of ground system. This grounding system works best on irrigated pasture or areas with high soil moisture.
FENCE GROUND RETURN
This system has alternate live and ground wires. When the animal touches both wires, it completes
the circuit between the two wires,and the electrons flow back to the controller.
Fence Ground Return
Installation:
Drive a ground rod into the earth at least every 1/4 mile along the fence line. Connect the rods to the “ground” wires of the fence. Connect the ground wires of the fence to the earth terminal on the controller. It is important that ground rods also be attached directly to the ground terminal on the controller. This ground system should be used in dry areas.