A conductive metal stake, typically composed of copper or copper-clad steel, used to establish an electrical connection to the earth and commonly available at a large home improvement retailer. These rods are driven into the ground to provide a low-resistance path for fault current, ensuring safety and proper operation of electrical systems. An example of its use is during new home construction or electrical panel upgrades, where grounding is essential to meeting code requirements.
The implementation of such a grounding solution is critical for safeguarding against electrical shock and preventing damage to appliances and equipment. Historically, grounding systems have evolved to provide enhanced safety measures in residential and commercial buildings. Effective grounding dissipates stray voltage, protects against lightning strikes, and helps stabilize voltage levels within an electrical system, resulting in a more reliable power supply.