An earthing system is another name for a grounding system. When installed, it connects specific parts to the conductive surface of our planet. It is a practice that increases safety while serving a few functional purposes.
This is not the same as the natural practice of “earthing” or “grounding” that involves body voltage.
Here are the pros and cons of an earthing system to discuss.
List of the Pros of Earthing Systems
1. It can reduce overvoltages within an electrical system.
This makes it possible for electrically-based items to operate properly without creating excess voltage. If left without grounding and excess voltage is present, a person touching the item in question could experience a pretty hefty jolt.
2. It reduces heat.
Electricity produces heat. Current produces heat. The consumption of electricity produces heat. By installing an earthing system, the heat levels can be controlled because current levels are being controlled. That promotes healthy use of the electrical system and reduces wear and tear damage over time.
3. It reduces arc and blast hazards.
It’s not just people who can be shocked by ungrounded equipment. Other equipment can be damaged without an earthing system in place as well. When two ungrounded items come together, an arc or blast may form. It can extend well beyond where the equipment is located. That may cause damage to the equipment and anything else that is in the vicinity of the event.
List of the Cons of Earthing Systems
1. It may create high levels of ground-fault current.
Voltage must go somewhere. If items are not properly grounded with an earthing system, then loads can become unbalanced. The discharge can go back through the electrical system to trip a breaker or worse, create a short-circuit current.
2. It can be costly to implement.
National and international codes are in place when evaluating the installation of an earthing system. Older homes and structures may not be in compliance with this coding and require an upgrade. That can be a costly expense for homeowners that would be a mandatory cost to pay outside of their regular expenses.
These earthing system pros and cons describe a system that is designed to provide a higher level of safety to one and all. When properly installed, it will dramatically reduce the risk of shock, arcs, and blasts.