Warning: Skipping the ground rod check cost me a 4 hour re-do in Toledo

I was doing a new build install last Tuesday in Toledo and thought I could skip the ground rod test since the panel looked new. The customer complained about flickering lights later that day, so I had to go back and check. Turns out the ground rod clamp was loose and the rod itself was only 6 feet deep instead of 8. The old timer at the supply house told me last year to always check it first, but I figured I knew better. Now I carry a tape measure and a hammer in my truck just for grounds. Has anyone else had a ground rod issue waste their whole afternoon?

2 comments

2 Comments

noaht1513d ago

Tape measure and hammer are the new best friends for sure. I had a similar situation in Cleveland where the inspector flagged a rod that was only 7ft deep in a commercial garage, and I had to drive a new one right next to it. Now I just bring a sledge and a 25ft tape to every job where I touch a panel. Saves a headache later.

the_kim13d agoMost Upvoted

Man, I used to think a tape measure on every job was overkill but you just proved me wrong @noaht15... that Cleveland story hit home because I've been in that exact spot where you swear the rod is deep enough and it's not. Now I'm keeping one in my truck along with my hammer for sure.