Developing a proper grounding to protect the electrical components at home can be tricky if you do not know what you need. Many use copper rods, whereas others prefer copper plates.

If we consider the surface area of a grounding element, then a plate will surely beat a rod. Hence, a majority of the households prefer using copper plates. Let us find out the valuable things you should know when choosing a copper plate grounding system.

Things to consider

We all know how vital an electrical earthing system is for a home or a commercial premise. We also have to focus on the specifications of the components used in a grounding system to deliver a better conductance to protect the appliances installed.

A copper plate will cost more than the rods. It is also heavier and needs a proper location for installation. Here is a list of things we should be aware of before installing a copper plate as a grounding system.

1.                Used in commercial and significant residential complexes

Copper plates are heavier and more prominent in size. They also offer a more extensive surface area to pass on the excess electricity flowing in the system. Hence, a copper plate is generally used in industrial applications. Significant commercial buildings use such plates for a better grounding facility. On the other hand, such copper plates get used in substantial residential complexes.

Independent houses and buildings can go with copper rods. They are efficient enough to divert lightning strikes and to keep the electrical systems safe.  

2.                Depth

Per the convention and standards, a copper plate should be installed at 3 meters below the ground level. This depth offers a better connection with the ground. The copper plate will become more capable of relaying the electrical surge to the ground when lightning strikes a building. Installing a copper plate at that depth also ensures that the entire surface area is used evenly to distribute the electrical surge in the system.

3.                Choice of copper plate grounding components

To construct a proper grounding system, you will not only need a copper plate but an appropriate set of all the parts. These components should be brought from the same certified manufacturer to fit well and offer a better grounding system to keep the electrical system safe.

4.                Clearing the pit

The pit for burying the plate should be free from plastics and other unwanted material to conduct the electrical surge smoothly. This step helps the grounding system work properly. The pit can be filled with a supportive mixture of coal and salt around the plate for better conductance of the copper plate grounding system.

5.                Vertical mounting

A copper plate is permanently mounted vertically, and the rest of the components are installed. It offers better connectivity and grounding feature of the system.

We should be aware of these things while choosing and installing a copper plate grounding system.