How to Run a Ground Wire to an Electrical Panel Box

Hunker may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Learn more about our affiliate and product review process here.

Your service panel's ground wire prevents a line fault from becoming a shocking experience. By shunting excess line voltage back to the panel's neutral pole, the ground current forces the circuit breaker to trip. The tripped breaker shuts off the circuit's current, preventing a potentially dangerous situation. Installing a ground wire to your electrical service panel can be done easily with a few hand tools. The codes of some localities differ from NEC (National Electric Code) standards. Be sure to check local codes before performing any wiring job.

Advertisement

Installing a Ground Rod

Video of the Day

Step 1

Place the tapered tip of a ground rod at the desired location. Hold vertically.

Video of the Day

Step 2

Drive into ground with the hammer. It is important to drive the rod as straight down as possible to give it the maximum depth.

Advertisement

Step 3

When only 3 to 4 inches remain above the surface, attach the grounding wire with the clamp and tighten with the wrench.

Step 4

Thread loose end of the wire through the wall next to the service panel.

Attach Ground Wire to Panel

Step 1

Turn off the main breaker.

Advertisement

Step 2

Remove faceplate from the service panel.

Step 3

Thread the ground wire through the knockout hole in the appropriate location (usually on the bottom or the side) on the service panel.

Step 4

Locate grounding bar and attach the ground wire. If your service panel does not have a separate grounding bar, attach the ground wire to the neutral bar.

Step 5

Replace the service panel faceplate. Turn on the main breaker.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Report an Issue

screenshot of the current page

Screenshot loading...