Electrical Panel Grounding Methods
|
Electrical Grounding Methods and Requirements – Listing of electrical codes for grounding with examples of electrical grounding codes for home electrical wiring. © By: Dave Rongey |
Methods for Grounding Electrical Panels
Electrical Question: I am doing some renovations in my basement and need to remove a copper water line. I ‘m replacing it with PEX (plastic) pipe.
- Home Electrical Ground Problem:
- My 100 amp electrical service panel ground is connected to the existing copper pipe.
- My plan is to relocate the ground. I am going to clamp the wire to a iron C channel foundation support.
- The foundation support has a 1 foot all-thread solid bar penetrating through the foundation and extending out into the yard 12 feet, 3.5′ underground.
- The iron C channel is in the same location, so the existing ground wire is long enough.
- Is this ground sufficient?
- And will I have to kill the power to the panel before moving the ground?
Background: Mark, a Handyman from St. Joseph, MO.
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical wiring question Mark.
Grounding Methods for Home Electrical Panels
Skill Level: Advanced – Licensed Electrical Contractor, Not Recommended for Homeowners.
Tools Required: Electricians Pouch of Hand Tools.
Estimated Time: Depends on the extent of the project, the grounding method to be used and available access to the project area.
Precaution: If the only ground source for the electrical system will be removed or modified then the electrical service should be shut off until the new ground source can be reconnected.
Notice: Making changes to the Electrical Service Panel should be done with a permit and be inspected.
- Mark, check with your local building department about the C channel that you are referring to.
- The depth of the channel is greater than the required 30 inches and it is longer than the required 8 feet however I am not familiar with the type of material that the C channel is made of or its ability to provide the necessary conductivity and resist corrosion.
- An alternative is to consider driving a ground rod or two depending on your location and conditions.
- If you are removing the only ground source from the main electrical panel then the panel should be shut off until the ground source can be reconnected.
The Following will assist you with Home Electrical System Wiring and Ground Systems:
- Electrical Grounding
- Electrical Panel Circuit Listing
- Electrical Codes for Services
- Wiring Electrical Codes
- Underground Electrical Codes
- Electrical Wire for the Home
- House Wiring Circuits and Circuit Breakers
This article looks at common 120 volt and 240 volt house wiring circuits and the circuit breakers that are installed identifying the types and amperage sizes used in most homes.
Planning Electrical Projects
Basic Home Wiring Diagrams
- Basement Electrical Wiring for the Home
- Understanding circuit options for basement electrical wiring will help you determine the electrical load requirements. This information will help as a home electrical basement wiring guide.
For more information about Grounding
Electrical Grounding
- Electrical Grounding Methods and Requirements
- Listing of electrical codes for grounding with examples of electrical grounding codes for home electrical wiring.
The following may also be helpful for you:
Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.
More articles about Electrical Wiring, Grounding and Home Electrical Wiring: |
|
| « Previous | Next » |
Hairdryer Outlet and GFI Safety Requirement |
Removing Unused Phone Jack Wiring |
