Common Electric Fence Installation Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

Installing an electric fence system may seem simple, but small details can make a big difference. Even a minor mistake, like weak grounding or using the wrong energizer, can cause major voltage loss. This guide helps you avoid common installation mistakes, using Lydite’s professional energizers as examples.
 

1. Mistake 1: Poor Grounding System

A fence is only as strong as its grounding. In most cases, voltage issues come from poor grounding, not from the energizer.

How to Fix It:
a) For small fences (below 8 acres), one galvanized ground rod about 1.5–2 meters long is usually enough.
b) For medium or large systems, use 2–3 rods spaced 3–5 meters apart to ensure stable current return.
c) In dry or sandy soil, pour water or add a little mineral salt around rods to improve conductivity.
d) Make sure grounding wires are clean, tight, and corrosion-free.

2. Mistake 2: Using the Wrong Energizer Size

Selecting the right electric fence energizer is crucial for stable voltage and animal control. Lydite offers different models for various farm sizes and power conditions.

How to Choose:
a) Use LFL101-1 for small paddocks near a power outlet.
b) Choose LFR050 for portable solar-powered systems.
c) Select LFP30 if you want flexibility between AC, battery, or solar power.
d) Pick ADS9000 for large-scale ranches needing high energy output and long-distance performance.
 

3. Mistake 3: Vegetation Touching the Fence

Overgrown grass and weeds can “leak” voltage by grounding parts of the fence line, especially on polywire or electric netting fences.

How to Fix It:
a) Regularly mow or trim vegetation beneath the fence.
b) Maintain at least 10 cm clearance from the ground.
c) Use fiberglass or plastic fence posts to keep lines tight.

4. Mistake 4: Loose Connections or Poor Insulators

Loose wire joints and cracked insulators can cause energy loss and reduce voltage.

How to Fix It:
a) Use high-quality plastic or porcelain insulators, especially on metal or pigtail posts.
b) Check stainless steel clips regularly for rust or damage.
c) Keep wire joints tight but not overstretched.
 

5. Mistake 5: Neglecting Regular Maintenance

Many farmers install their fences once and forget to check them again. Over time, weather, dust, or vegetation can reduce voltage.

How to Fix It:
a) Test voltage weekly using a digital fence tester.
b) Keep connectors dry and clean.
c) Re-tighten or replace worn posts and insulators seasonally.
d) For solar energizers like LFR050 or ADS9000, clean the solar panel regularly to ensure charging efficiency.
 

6. Conclusion

A reliable electric fencing system depends on three things: solid grounding, the right energizer, and regular maintenance.

• For smaller areas, use LFL101-1 (AC).
• For portable setups, go with LFR050 (solar).
• For flexible dual power use, choose LFP30.
• For large, high-energy systems, rely on ADS9000.

Lydite provides complete fencing solutions including energizers, netting, polywire, posts, and accessories, trusted by farmers worldwide.