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-   -   Main Earth Wire (https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/showthread.php?t=377944)

  • Jul 20, 2009, 09:06 PM
    wonderhuman
    Main Earth Wire
    I've been told that our main earth wire was not suitably connected to the earth electrode and I could face fines if not addressed urgently.

    When I checked it out, I saw a metal rod (assume that this was the earth electrode), and twisted around it was the main earth wire (at least, that's what I think). I've been told that a suitable clamp was not used.

    When I called the electricians, they laughed and said 'do it yourself', as it's just a simple job. (they actually refused to come out because it was going to be too easy!! )

    So, here are my questions:
    What kind of clamp do I need to get?
    Do I need to cover the rod and the wire? (currently, the metal parts are exposed)

    Thanking you in advance!
  • Jul 20, 2009, 09:41 PM
    KISS

    See this post by our resident senior expert:

    https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/electr...ht-110964.html

    I don't agree with the laughing electricians. This could be a potential dangerous job if not done correctly.

    You must:
    1.Turn off your main breaker
    2. Never let the ground loose (use a safety until operation is complete)
    3. Insulate yourself from the rod (rated gloves) when working on it.
    4. Disconnect the CATV connector at the demarcation point.

    #2 is the most important.
  • Jul 21, 2009, 02:49 AM
    tkrussell
    1 Attachment(s)
    You spoke to some stupid electricians.

    This is why even good electrician are bad business men.

    I would be glad to visit, do a quick job, and charge a service call.

    While I was there thou, I would be looking everything over, looking for other potential problems, so you would get your money's worth.

    They not only missed on a service charge, they lost a potential long term customer.

    Here is a photo of a clamp called an Acorn clamp, often used to connect a ground wire to a ground rod.

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