An Overview of Common Types Of Electrical Grounding Methods
Electrical grounding provides excess current with a safe place to discharge. This reduces the risk of a short, an explosion or perhaps even an electrical fire caused by a lightning strike or other serious events. There are many different electrical grounding systems that can be used depending on your needs, composition of the soil around your home as well as the age of your property.
Ground Rod Grounding System
Ground rods are drilled into the soil so that grounding wires can be attached to them. To meet National Electric Code (NEC) standards, the pipes must be at least eight feet in length and make contact with the soil for at least eight feet. The primary benefit to such a system is that it is relatively easy and inexpensive to install.
Prior to electrical grounding installationd, Mister Sparky can analyze the soil to determine its moisture content and pinpoint any other issues that might impact installation. On average, you can expect such a system to last for about a decade when properly maintained.
Grounding Plate System
A grounding plate is typically made of galvanized iron (GI) or copper, but they can be made from other materials as well. They are placed at least 10 feet into the ground to meet NEC standards and other applicable regulations. Plate thickness and other standards also need to be met to ensure basic function and long-term safety.
Mister Sparky recommends this system for anyone who is looking to save money on installation costs. This type of system tends to be the least expensive to install, but you should be able to use it for at least a decade when properly maintained.
Concrete-Encased Electrode System (Ufer Ground)
As the name suggests, the Ufer electrical grounding system attaches various electrical systems to an electrode encased in concrete. The benefits to this system include the fact that it tends to be the most reliable regardless of ground conditions. This is because it is tied into the foundation, which means it will be with the structure permanently.
Mister Sparky suggests that the system is located in an easily accessible area. This ensures that you can inspect or test it with ease in the future. According to the NEC, you’ll need at least two inches of concrete to use this system safely.
Grounding Through Metal Water Pipes
Water pipes are generally made of materials that can conduct electricity. Therefore, they can typically be used as a ground assuming that you have at least one additional electrode. Otherwise, you will run afoul of modern NEC codes that have phased this type of grounding electrode system.
The benefits of this type of system is a reduced risk of electrical fire as well as enhanced protection for appliances. In addition, you may have reduced corrosion risk as well as reduced risk of electromagnetic and radio frequency interference.
Mister Sparky says that this type of system can be ideal if you’re concerned about inconsistent voltage or other issues that can harm your appliances. It is also worthwhile if you’re concerned about GFCI issues that could result in harm to outlets.
Grounding through the Building’s Steel Structure
Steel used to construct a home or commercial building can be used as a ground if done correctly. You’ll use a series of ground rods bound to the structure with copper wire. You can use ground rings along with a grounding busbar around the structure for even better grounding.
The primary benefit to grounding using the steel structure is that it can protect against inclement weather. If lightning were to strike the building, it would simply flow around it and away from the property. Other benefits include affordability and longevity of both the ground and the structure itself as it will be less vulnerable to damage.
Mister Sparky advises you to hire an electrician that understands local building codes. Codes can vary from state to state and even between cities in the same state. We are familiar with all applicable codes and can help ensure that grounding is done safely and promptly.
Multiple Grounding Electrodes (Supplemental Grounding Systems)
In some cases, grounding conductors of electricity cannot be done with concrete or other traditional methods. Therefore, a builder may choose to put in multiple electrodes to help ground a home or building. The multiple electrodes will work together to maximize the flow of excess current away from a structure.
The primary benefit is that you can safely occupy a home or building even when other grounding methods aren’t available. This means that you can build in rural areas or in climates that might otherwise not be suitable for living or working.
Mister Sparky says that a structure may have multiple electrodes even if they don’t necessarily serve as a grounding element. We can help you determine if multiple electrodes are worth installing or provide advice as to whether you need them to adhere to NEC regulations and local codes.
Whether you want to use ground plates, an Ufer ground or similar methods, we can help meet your needs. We’ll be sure to go through your options and find the one that works best for your property and budget. Remember, with Mister Sparky, you don’t have to put up with any malarky. Instead, we’ll treat you with respect and ensure that you get the most for your time and money.