Grounding System

• 1). Install the fence charger in a secure, covered dry area. The area should not be exposed to rain or excessive moisture. Solar-charging fence chargers are built to be weatherproof and should be installed in full sunlight.
  
  
• 2). Install the grounding rod. The ground should be a 6-foot metal rod (galvanized or copper) that is driven into the earth within 20 feet of the charger. A good ground is critical in a high-voltage system to prevent stray current.
  
  
• 3). Attach an insulated wire to the ground terminal on the charger, and then attach the other end to the grounding rod. If several grounds are being used, attach them together with the same type of wire. Make sure the ground wire and the grounds are the same type of metal to avoid electrolysis and corrosion. Check the manufacturer's instructions for the proper gauge and insulation wire.
  
  

Attach the Lead Wire

• 1). Using insulated wire for the lead, attach one end to the lead terminal on the charger. This wire should be the same material as the fencing wire when possible--again, to avoid electrolysis and corrosion.
  
  
• 2). Attach the lead wire to the electric fence. Use a manufactured connector or a very secure splice. Use insulated wire to make jumpers to activate other strands of wire on the fence.
  
  
• 3). Test the voltage. Turn on the charger and follow the manufacturer's specific instructions for testing the proper voltage along the fence.
  
  
• 4). When the fence is operating correctly, don't forget to train the animals to avoid the fence. Electric fences can be set up quickly but should be checked routinely to make sure they are functioning correctly.