Ground Bars Installation and Safety
The size of your electricity oriented job does not matter when it comes to proper grounding. Ground bars are the final and most important step to setting up any electrical project. Electrical power systems need to be installed with expertise and close attention paid to safety.
Whether your job is a building’s antennae system, a HAM radio operation or a multi-acre horse fence, nothing can be overlooked when it comes to electrical grounding. Beyond finding the highest quality parts like high density copper, aluminum and galvanized rods you need to install a grounding system with the advice of a professional.
Ground Bars
Ground bars are pieces of metal, typically copper or aluminum that are installed in the ground to protect buildings from electrical discharges. Because the spacing of these ground bars is very important in how they function, a professional installer is recommended. The ground bars are installed to protect those that work around and inside the building from electrical hazards created by equipment inside or around the structure. When deciding on aluminum or copper, you will need to take the soil in which the ground bar will be placed. Copper is selected when the potential for corrosion is present in the soil. Copper is also useful when a strong material is needed to withstand any ground shifting.
Manufacturers and tradesman electricians can provide you with the knowledge to install a system with the ground bars that can adequately handle the loads you will be working with. They can also advise you on lug placement and separation, the uses of tower and insulating hardware and matching your job to the products at a price that fits your budget.
Ground Bars Installed by Professionals
Most ground bars are inexpensive in relation to the project, but their variations can quickly add to the job’s expense. Features like universal or predrilled components and theft deterrent additions can turn grounding into a very sensitive operation. Sometimes your job can be completed with a prefabricated grounding kit, but often it requires the knowledge of an experienced installation specialist. This is especially true if you are building electrical projects to code. Do not leave the life and quality of your electrical project in inexperienced hands, seek out a pro.
If you are installing ground bars for a shed in your backyard or a mega facility, then you should rely on the training and experience of a professional electrician. Even though smaller projects can be done by one person and a little bit of knowledge; that little bit could cause some major issues if the product is not installed correctly. Improper installations could lead to fires or dangerous and possibly lethal electrical discharges. Professional installers are trained to prevent possible injuries by correctly installing ground bars and other electrical equipment. Even if you decide to go the do it yourself route, if you are ever in doubt about the self-installation, then refer only to the advice of a certified electrician as general advice may not be accurate.
