Electric netting not working as it should? Here are some tips to help solve issues that commonly lead to electric fence malfunction:

I have completed the setup, but the netting is not producing a shock.

1. Make sure the energizer is properly connected to the netting. Consult the energizers user manual to ensure proper installation. Reminder: Starkline recommends an energizer with an output of at least 0.1 Joules. For animals with thick fur or wool, an energizer output of 0.25 Joules is recommended.
2. Make sure the netting is off the ground and not touching surrounding vegetation. During installation, ensure that the netting is taut by applying sufficient lateral tension to each post before stepping it into the ground.
3. Double-check that the grounding rod is deep enough. Starkline ground rods should be driven at least 34” into the earth. Inadequate grounding will not allow the electric fencing system to ‘complete the circuit’ and will not provide a shock when contact is made.
4. Test that the fence energizer is properly functioning with a voltmeter or electric fence tester. Refer to the energizer’s owner’s manual for testing instructions.

My ground rod is installed to the appropriate depth and connected correctly but I am still not getting a shock. What gives?

1. If the soil is unusually dry and hard (or if you live in an arid climate) try pouring a 5-gallon bucket of water around the grounding rod. This can help the conductivity of the soil by increasing the moisture. This may need to be repeated every 2-3 days depending on conditions.
2. If soaking the area around the grounding rod does not fix the issue, consider Starkline Positive/Negative netting for dry and arid soil conditions.

How do I keep my netting off the ground?

1. During installation, ensure that the netting is taut by applying lateral tension to each post before stepping it into the ground.
2. Starkline Netting comes with 4 lengths of extra black nylon rope and 4 black stakes. Tie one end of a nylon rope to the top of a fence post (we suggest using these on corners of the fence), tie the other end of the rope to a black stake, pull the rope tight at a 45-degree angle away from the post, and pound the stake into the ground.

Does my netting need to be connected at each end?

1. Nope! Attaching the ends to form a complete circuit is recommended when possible, but it is not required.

Does the black strand at the bottom need to be off the ground?

1. The black strand is non-conductive and is designed to rest atop the ground. The horizontal strands above this strand should be kept off the ground and contact with vegetation should be limited as much as possible.

Can I use extra posts to prop up certain spots of my fence?

1. Yes, any fiberglass post designed to be used with electric fencing can be used to support the fence if needed.

Still have questions? Contact us below so we can get them sorted out.