How to Ground an Electrode to a Meter Socket or Main Panel

Have the power to the home disconnected at the meter socket or service pole. Remove the cover from the service panel with a flat-head screwdriver. Remove a knockout from the service panel with a flat screwdriver.

Calculate the proper gauge for the grounding conductor according to the amperage load of the service panel and local electrical code. This can be done using information available online.

Run a length of conductor from the service panel to the grounding electrode. Cut the conductor to length, leaving enough to reach all grounding electrodes in a single, unbroken run.

Place a grounding clamp on the grounding electrode and tighten the mounting nut on the clamp with an adjustable wrench. Slide the end of the conductor into the terminal on the side of the clamp. Tighten the terminal screw. Repeat this step for all electrodes, running the conductor through the clamp to the next electrode without cutting it.

Run the end of the conductor through the knockout hole in the service panel. Cut the conductor to length, leaving enough conductor to reach the grounding buss inside the panel.

Slide the end of the conductor into the large terminal at the end of the grounding bus. Hold the conductor in place and tighten the terminal screw securely with a flat-head screwdriver.