Extending GEC

[Greg1707]

When swapping out panels I often find the GEC terminated more than five feet from the entrance to the basement. Running a new GEC can be a problem with finished basements. What is the least expensive option available to be set up to extend a GEC #4 awg?

 

[infinity]

The least expensive irreversible splice is a crimp connector but it would require some type of tool to compress it. What do you mean about the 5' is that the connection to the water pipe electrode?

 

[tom baker]

The 5 ft requirement is only when the water pipe qualifies as a GEC. If it’s a bonding connection it can be made anywhere.

 

[Greg1707]

Yes, that is the situation. The existing GEC falls short of the five foot requirement. In older houses the GEC was terminated to an accessible water pipe near the panel.

The 5 ft requirement is only when the water pipe qualifies as a GEC. If it’s a bonding connection it can be made anywhere

 

[infinity]

Yes, that is the situation. The existing GEC falls short of the five foot requirement. In older houses the GEC was terminated to an accessible water pipe near the panel.

Just out of curiosity where's the water meter in this scenario? It seem strange that an older home would not have the GEC landed on the street side of the water meter which is around here is right where the pipe enters the house.

 

[Buck Parrish]

The reference is - 250.68 (C) 1

 

[Dennis Alwon]

Can the new grounding electrode conductor be run on the outside of the house and then enter back where the water line enters the house.