Electric Fence issues (again!)

[shelleen]

We installed an electric fence in May for our goats with the electric webbing. After having a few issues with the webbing burning through in spots we were getting frustrated. About that time, we had escapees on our hands--only to discover that the charger was DEAD. We took it apart & there was water in it. (Our fault, not weather-proof enough). We hooked up another (new, stronger but different brand) charger & it didn't work. I went & bought another charger like the first one. It worked in some areas. My husband got frustrated & went & bought the wire & replaced most of the webbing. It was working very well for 2 weeks. We noticed it is dead again (this one is in a weather-proof box).

What are we doing wrong?? How can it work perfectly for months & now, all the issues?

 

[carolinagirl]

had any lightning lately? that will mess up a charger in a hurry!

 

[shelleen]

No lightening that I'm aware of...unless I slept through it!! Probably not because we've had little rain here.

 

[Stratmoore Farms]

How deep is your ground rod? Is it copper or galvanized? A good ground is vital to the fence working properly. You mentioned that it hasn't rained recently. If the ground is dry, it can be hard to get a good ground. Pour a fair amount of water around the ground rod, that may help. Also, adding a second or third ground rod can help as well.

 

[shelleen]

We have a 10 ft copper rod, that is pounded into the ground at least 8 ft. It is surrounded by a PVC pipe. After the 2nd charger did not work, we ran the hose down the PVC pipe for quite awhile. We have a lot of gravel/sand on our land & knew that might be an issue. BUT, there is only 1 ground, so it is a thought to add more. How deep do you suggest? We can try the water trick again, too, tomorrow. It was raining around the time the 3rd charger was installed, but not much since then.

 

[goodhors]

Check the directions with the charger. Some recommend using 3ea,
8ft ground rods to make them work! Then you have to KEEP them
damp on a regular basis, maybe watering once or twice a week during
dry times. Dump the tank water over them or empty water buckets
on them if you can.

Another point problem might between the wire ground, rod clamp, ground
rod itself, which can get corroded between the various metals. This can
happen quickly, so it might come as a surprise when things go bad so
soon. Worth checking, might be a cheap fix with some sandpaper or a new clamp.

 

[shelleen]

That is another great thought. Here's hoping for an easy fix! I'm sure my naughty goats would appreciate not having to stay inside on a beautiful fall day.