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View Full Version : I grounded the outdoor power service box, do I need to ground my main panel as well?


pubema
Dec 19, 2009, 10:13 AM
If I do, then what gauge of wire should I use for grounding my main panel?

Is there any difference if I connect the ground to sewage pine or water pine?

Thanks.

stanfortyman
Dec 19, 2009, 11:13 AM
Details. We need details.

First, where are you? US? (State?) CA? UK?

What specifically is an "outdoor power service box"? And why did you "ground" it? And to what?

In the US:
Sewage pipes are NOT suitable for use as an electrode, nor are they required to be bonded.
A metallic water pipe that is in contact with the earth for 10' or more must be used as an electrode and must be supplemented by another electrode.

There are quite a few important codes involved with doing a service. Did you get to know them before you started?

pubema
Dec 19, 2009, 12:40 PM
I live in Illinois. The power meter box outside of my property is grounded with 1/2in thick and 5ft long copper rod into the ground.

The question is: Should I still ground my main panel?

Thanks.

stanfortyman
Dec 19, 2009, 02:49 PM
I'm not sure about Ill, but most places in the country now prohibit a grounding electrode connection inside the meter pan.

Also, a 1/2" x 5' rod is NOT code complaint and WILL get red tagged. You need and 8' x 5/8" ground rod.

YES, you need to run the grounding electrode conductors and any bonding conductors to the main panel/disconnect.

Where did you get your information from before starting this project?