what gauge wire use to connect to ground rod

The main grounding electrode connection for many houses is at the metal water pipe at the point where it enters the home before the water meter. See article 250.52(A) in the National Electrical Code. The grounding electrodes can be ground rods, concrete encased rebar, copper plates, copper wire in the footings, concrete embedded steel or other means that provide an approved electrical path to earth.

From there the wire(s) will connect to the home’s water pipes and to one or more grounding electrodes. The grounding electrode system consists of a wire or two that originate on the grounding terminal in your main electrical panel or disconnect switch. Whenever you hear of someone’s house getting struck and damaged by lightning it is usually because the grounding electrode system was deficient.

In addition, when lightning strikes on or around your home or work place the rod creates a path for the high voltage electrical charge to go directly to the earth and avoid causing damage to your home. If the neutral conductor from the transformer to your house ever got disconnected, the return current would travel through the earth to get back to the transformer. The power company has their power transformer grounded with at least an eight foot grounding rod. It is required by article 250.53(D)(2) in the National Electrical Code (NFPA 70). A ground rod is also referred to as a grounding electrode or anode. It is part of the grounding electrode system for voltage stabilization and lightning protection. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.Ī ground rod is a very important component of the electrical wiring in your home or place of work.

NOTE: Some text links below go to applicable products on EMP Shield or Amazon. To install a ground rod some tools and muscle will be needed. Why do I need this and what is involved with fixing or installing a grounding rod?Īnswer: It is very important to keep the grounding electrode system in your home in good condition. Electrician: How do I install a grounding rod as part of the grounding electrode system for my house? An electrician told me that the grounding electrode system for my house did not have a good grounding rod and gave me a ball park price to fix it up.

What gauge wire use to connect to ground rod