Q: What is grounding, and why is it important?
A: Many people believe if an electrical device is working, then it must be hooked up to a properly wired outlet. Be aware that some electronics will operate even if connected improperly, but this can severely injure the user. To ensure your hair dryer, clothes dryer, stove, and other appliances will function properly and safely, make sure your home and outlets have proper grounding.
“Ground” literally means the earth or ground in the term “path to ground” because electrical circuits can be connected to the ground. A ground wire is a wire that has been intentionally connected to the earth but does not typically carry electricity, although it can if the system detects a problem.
HOW DO I KNOW IF MY HOME HAS A GOOD GROUND?
When buildings are erected and the electrical system is installed, grounding is essential and inspected along with everything else. The requirements for grounding are specified by the National Electrical Code and may be modified to suit the local building codes. Typical home codes include an 8- or 10-foot ground rod pounded into the earth near the electrical entry to the building. The end of the rod is welded to a copper wire to the ground screw in the electrical panel.
Grounding systems are important because they provide:
• Protection from electrical shock. The grounding wiring increases the possibility that malfunctioning equipment will trip a circuit breaker rather than be a shock hazard.
• Protection from atmospheric static discharge, including lightning. If your home has proper grounding, lightning is more likely to dissipate the energy pulse through the grounding wires rather than finding its path through the electrical system and destroying devices and appliances.
HOW CAN I STAY SAFE WITH DEVICES?
Ground-fault and arc-fault circuit interrupter outlets detect whether electricity is staying inside the circuit or leaking out somewhere else (like through you). This protection is especially good for damp areas of your home such as the kitchen and bathroom and is required for many new or remodeling wiring projects. GFCI circuits are available to install in both wall outlets and circuit breakers. Test your GFCI outlets monthly.
Proper grounding is an easy way to reduce the possibility of shock and fires. As more of the devices we use can be damaged or destroyed by unstable power, grounding is more important than ever.
If you need more information about your home’s grounding system, hire a qualified electrician to inspect it.
About the Author
Michael Baldauf is an electrical instructor and broadcast engineer and lives in Rye.
