Installation and Maintenance Instructions

1.  Intended Use:
This electric fence system is designed exclusively for containing livestock or deterring animals. It is not to be used for any other purpose. Ensure the product is correctly installed to avoid ineffective performance.

2.  Installation Guide:

  • Step 1: Choose the correct energizer. Always use a low-impedance, intermittent pulse energizer. A continuous output energizer could cause heat buildup, creating fire hazards.
  • Step 2: Set up proper grounding. Use at least three grounding rods, spaced 10-12 feet apart, driven deep into the soil. For every joule of output, install 3 feet of grounding rods (e.g., a 3-joule system needs 9 feet of grounding rods).
  • Step 3: Install fence posts and wire, ensuring no vegetation touches the electrified wires. Keep wires 6-18 inches off the ground to minimize energy loss.
  • Step 4: Connect the energizer to the wires and grounding system as per the manufacturer’s wiring instructions.

3. Grounding System:
A well-installed grounding system ensures the fence delivers effective shocks to animals that touch it. Ground rods should be placed in areas that maintain moisture for best performance, and they must be connected with high-conductivity wire to the energizer’s ground terminal.

4. Maintenance Tips:

  • Regularly check for vegetation contact with the wires, as weeds can drain energy and reduce the shock delivered.
  • Inspect the fence after storms or extreme weather, looking for broken wires, posts, or damage to the grounding system.
  • Test your fence regularly with a voltage tester to ensure it's operating at an optimal level (3,000 to 5,000 volts is recommended for most livestock).

5. Safety Precautions:

  • Keep the fence away from children, as electric fences are capable of delivering painful, though non-lethal, shocks.
  • Install warning signs in public or shared areas to alert people to the presence of an electric fence.
  • Never touch the fence without turning off the energizer. Always disconnect the energizer before performing any maintenance.
  • Follow local regulations for fencing, especially in areas with shared or public boundaries.

6. Product Care:

  • For best results, store the energizer and components in a dry, sheltered area during the off-season.
  • Periodically inspect all connections, especially around the energizer and grounding system, to prevent corrosion and ensure optimal performance.

FAQs:

  • What happens if my fence is touching weeds or grass?
    Vegetation touching the electrified wire can drain energy from the system, reducing its effectiveness. Keep the area under the fence clear.

  • What type of energizer should I use?
    Always use a low-impedance energizer to ensure your fence can handle heavy vegetation or longer distances without losing power.

  • How many grounding rods do I need?
    You should install at least 3 feet of grounding rod per joule of output from your energizer. If your soil is dry or rocky, you may need more grounding rods to improve conductivity.