06/02/11, 02:24 PM
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Join Date: Feb 2011
Location: SE Michigan
Posts: 39
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Poultry Fence Question
So our chicks have grown and are now outside full time. We are using the poultry net fencing from Premier as a movable pen/pasture area for the birds. The fence product seems workable, but we are having some grounding issues.
The sheet that came with our fence charger recommended (3) 6’ ground rods. That is what we started with. Initially I drove them to about 4’ in the ground with 2’ remaining above ground for easier removal when relocating the pen and so they would be high enough to see and be less of a trip hazard. The rods were spaced about 4’ from each other.
With this grounding setup touching the fence only produced a small shock, similar to the static shock you may get from a doorknob in the winter.
I have since drove the ground posts further into the ground, leaving maybe 6” protruding for removal and for the clamp an lead wire. I also spaced them approx 10’ apart. The shock from the fence is now a bit stronger, but not as powerful as it should be.
I have tested the fence with one hand on a ground rod and one on the fence – this produces a shock that would serve as a real deterrent to the chicks or any predators. I believe this indicates the energizer is sufficient and the connections to the fence, etc. are properly made, the net isn’t grounding out from too high grass, etc.
Clearly I need more/better grounding to make a more effective fence.
If I simply add more ground rods that may increase the fences’ effectiveness but will limit portability if I have to pull and re-drive 6 or more ground rods each time.
What are some other solutions for better grounding while maintaining portability?
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