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DESIGNING AN EFFECTIVE GROUNDING SYSTEM The grounding system for an electric fence is a little like a radio antenna. With a radio, the bigger the antenna, the better the reception. Likewise, your electric fence energizer requires a large grounding system to collect enough electrons from the soil to complete a powerful circuit. A minimum of three ground rods should be used for each (most) energizer(s). Many 1 joule units only need 1 rod. Five-eighths inch diameter galvanized steel rods or 3/4" galvanized pipe make the best ground rods (DO NOT USE COPPER). They should be at least 6 feet long and driven 5-1/2 feet into the soil. They should be spaced at least ten feet apart. More ground rods may be needed in dry areas. If your fence includes ground wires, it is advisable to install additional ground rods connected to the ground wire at 1500 foot intervals along the fence line (3000 foot intervals are adequate where soil is moist year round). Energizers should be connected to ground rods with 12-1/2 gauge wire attached with ground rod clamps (below). The connecting wire should be insulated so that it does not come in direct contact with the soil (i.e. 12-1/2 gauge direct burial cable is ideal). Use one continuous wire to connect all ground rods.
Lightning Protection: In addition to setting up the power system to the fence, one should consider and plan for a way to handle a lightning strike. If at all possible, the energizer should be unplugged during an electrical storm. Additionally, a lightning diverter (as good as or better than your grounding system) should be incorporated into your fencing construction. Check with your local fence dealer for information on lightning diverters.
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