Ground Rod Questions

DAVIS081404

I am looking at a job that was originally farmed out to an unlicensed scam artist. The job was to upgrade to a 200 amp panel and add a 100amp sub in an aux building out back. The so called electrician changed the panel without obtaining a permit or contacting the utility. He cut the meter seal and went on about his business. Anyway to my question. I have been asked to correct the violations, one of which is the add a ground rod at each structure. Being that there is a sidewalk at both locations, what are my options? Can I simply bore through the sidewalk and leave the ground rod exposed above the concrete, or will this require more drastic action (removal of side walk)? I appreciate any assistance in this mater.

72chevy4x4

I know this sounds strange, but I seem to remember installing two grounding rods at my garage, which had 100A service. The rods were relativelyl close together.

probably won't get away with leaving the rod exposed above the concrete. likley need to cut out a section of the sidewalk and drop it down. Not sure if you concrete over top of it or not-anyone have the answer?

mdshunk

Does concrete surround the whole house? Simple way is to drive your rods where there isn't any sidewalk. I have cored out a 2" hole and driven the rod and acorn clamp below the sidewalk level and filled it with a fist full of duct seal.

DAVIS081404

No. The concrete does not surrond the entire structure. On either structure there is a 3' concrete sidewalk approx 10' in each direction of the panels. Thanks for comments thus far.

mdshunk

So you have no real problem, then. Run the grounding electrode conductor to a place where you can drive your rods without fussing about the concrete.

DAVIS081404

Sounds good. Sometimes I try to over think a simple task. I should remember the KISS it approach more often.

Thanks

DaveTap

Might need to run it in PVC to "protect it from damage" since the sidewalk is right there, and ask your inspector if they require 1 or 2 ground rods (spaced at least 6' apart)

mdshunk

If you're talking about schedule 40 pvc conduit, that won't do a blessed thing in that regard.