As with any electric fence system any loss of power to ground will result in lack of power to the fence. Water is probably the worst offender with wet grass being next and grass after that. My electric fence on the farm will run in excess of  6000 volts power when all is clear but will be drained down to where you can grab it with your hand if it is loaded down with wet grass.

In short, make sure all connections are tight and not leaking voltage to ground plus make sure any of the above are eliminated as power leaks. Also, make sure your energizer is sized appropriately for the number of hot grass units and the distance the wire needs to travel. A “New Zealand” style low impedance energizer is much more effective than the local farm store varieties. Check the internet site for “Premier Sheep Supplies”. They have a great selection.  - Steve

Hi everyone,
Here at the Rio Grande Zoo in Albuquerque, we are using a form of hot
grass in our warthog exhibit. It works as long as water doesn't touch
it. I am wondering if we are doing something wrong. Has anyone else
had such problems? What brands are better than others? Would
appriciate any help. Thanks