Electric fence earthing / grounding

Operation of Electric fence earthing

Earthing ensures that current can flow back to the electric fence energiser when an animal and/or grass touches the electric fence. No earthing means no more current at the end of the fence, so indispensable for good switching! Earthing also plays a role in maintaining an electric fence.

Why is Electric fence grounding important?

Without good earthing, no properly functioning fence. Poor earthing creates low current on your fence and is the most common problem in non-functioning or malfunctioning fencing. It's a shame, because this means you don't benefit from the optimal performance of fencing and your animals can still outwit you and break out.

Earthing equipment

For good earthing, you can use different products. For example, we sell different earthing pins, earthing mix and earthing cables. 

Applying earthing

Because installing earthing is very important, we would like to help you on your way! Therefore, we have prepared a complete step-by-step plan for installing a fence, and earthing. This will ensure that you build a strong fence that will last for years!

Which type of earth stake is recommended for an electric fence?

For optimal performance, it is advisable to use a galvanised electric fence earth stake. Galvanisation provides a protective coating that helps prevent rusting and ensures the stake's long-lasting effectiveness. On the other hand, a copper earth stake may rust more rapidly, diminishing its efficiency over time.

To ensure the grounding of your electric fence system remains effective, choosing a galvanised earth stake is the ideal choice. Its durable construction and resistance to rust make it a reliable option for long-term use.

For high-quality electric fence earth rods and ground rods, explore our selection of products on our website. We offer a range of top-grade options designed to provide efficient grounding for your electric fence, ensuring optimal performance and compliance with safety standards.

Why does the required electric fence earthing vary for each electric fence energiser?

When the circuit is completed by contact with the electric fence, it is crucial to ensure that all the energy produced by the electric fence energiser is efficiently conducted back through the electric fence earthing. This is essential for the proper functioning of the fence. Consequently, there are instances where multiple electric fence earth stakes need to be employed. While a hobby device can operate effectively with just one electric fence earth stake, as it handles a lower energy load, a powerful electric fence energiser generates a significant amount of energy that cannot be adequately channeled through a single earth stake. Therefore, the use of multiple electric fence earth stakes becomes necessary in such cases.

Understanding the specific requirements for electric fence grounding associated with your electric fence energiser is essential. By employing the appropriate number of electric fence earth rods and ground rods, you can establish a robust electric fence grounding system. This system ensures the efficient flow of energy, thereby enhancing the overall performance and effectiveness of your electric fence.

How does an earth rod work?

One of the most important earthing materials is the earthing rod. We sell earth rods in different lengths and prices.

How many Electric fence earth rods do I need?

The number of earth rods needed differs per situation and also depends on the electrified wire unit you use. We have a comprehensive overview of the materials needed per situation. However, every type of soil in the world is different, which is why you may need more earth stakes than the recommended amount. Therefore, always measure to be sure! Make sure that if you need more than one earth stake, space them at least three metres apart!

How deep should a ground stake for fence wire be?

Make sure the earth stake including cable is at least 10 cm below ground level. Do you have several earth stakes? Then connect the first to the second earth stake with a double-insulated ground cable and the second to the third, etc.

How does an earthing cable work?

An earthing cable -also called ground cable- is used for grounding a fence wire device in a fence. The use of an earthing cable is necessary to connect the energiser to the fence and the earthing pins. An earthing cable is also used to make underground connections, for example at fences and passageways. Find out which earthing cable is best to buy!

How thick should an earthing cable be?

Different types of fencing require different materials. Also, the thickness of an earthing cable differs depending on which fencing device is used. Fortunately, we have a comprehensive overview where all the information can be found.

Testing the earthing

An essential step for a properly functioning fence is to carry out a grounding test with an electric fence tester. Testing your earthing can be quick and easy, but is hugely important. Therefore, regularly check the current on your fence using a fence tester, but most importantly check now that the base of your fence is good. Is the heart of your fence beating well enough for your pasture? We are happy to help you test grounding.

What is the purpose of reference earthing in electric fence grounding?

Reference earthing is a procedure to assess the quality of the electric fence earthing system. It involves the use of an additional electric fence earth stake to measure the voltage of the earthing system. If the reference earth is not properly connected, the earth voltage display will indicate 0.0. However, it's important to note that even if your electric fence earthing is nearly perfect, it may still show a reading of 0.0.

To ensure the effectiveness of your electric fence grounding, it is recommended to measure the voltage directly at the electric fence earth stake itself. A correct reading at the electric fence earth stake should also register as 0.0.

Reference earthing serves as a valuable diagnostic tool to verify the integrity of your electric fence earthing system. By conducting these measurements, you can ensure that your electric fence grounding is functioning optimally, providing a safe and reliable electric fence system.

Why is special ground cable necessary for an electric fence grounding system?

Special ground cable is designed with a core of galvanised wire and double insulation, serving a crucial purpose in preventing short circuits. This unique construction provides effective protection against external influences and disturbances, minimizing their impact on the electric fence.

By using special ground cable in your electric fence grounding system, you can ensure enhanced reliability and reduced vulnerability to unwanted short circuits. The galvanised wire core offers durability and resistance to corrosion, while the double insulation adds an extra layer of insulation, safeguarding against potential disruptions.

Investing in high-quality special ground cable is a wise choice to optimize the performance of your electric fence grounding system. It provides a robust and reliable connection, promoting the efficient flow of electricity and contributing to a secure and effective fence grounding solution.

What is the distinction between 1.6 - 2.5 mm and 2.7 mm electric fence earthing cable?

The main difference lies in their resistance. Thinner ground cables have higher resistance, while the 2.7 mm cable exhibits lower resistance. This lower resistance makes it particularly suitable for efficiently carrying energy over longer distances underground.

When the distance between the electric fence and the grounding point is 25 metres or more, it is recommended to utilize either 2.5 mm or 2.7 mm electric fence earthing cable. These thicker cable options ensure optimal conductivity, minimizing energy loss and ensuring that the electric fence receives the necessary power even over extended distances.

By choosing the appropriate gauge of electric fence earthing cable based on the distance requirements, you can effectively maintain a reliable and efficient flow of energy throughout your electric fence system.