What Is Better? Copper or Galvanized Ground Rod?
You understand how crucial ground rods are to your project. We’re not exaggerating when we say properly installed, quality ground rods can save lives.
But now comes the challenging part of the equation: What type of ground rod to use? Copper or galvanized ground rods?
We’ll examine the qualities of both copper and galvanized ground rods so you can make the right decision for your latest venture. Do you have questions? Don’t worry. At Southern Grounding, we’re dedicated to helping you succeed; it’s part of our longstanding history of stellar customer service and superior quality products. We invite you to contact us for a quote to experience what sets us apart from our competitors.
First, let’s look at the benefits of copper ground rods.
What Is Better? Copper or Galvanized Ground Rods?
Is Copper a Good Grounding Rod?
Chances are you’re familiar with copper’s role in electrical wiring–it has a long history of being used in electrical systems. It’s an excellent conductor of electricity because it has free electrons. These free electrons are vital in producing an electric flow.
There are several facets to consider when evaluating copper or galvanized ground rods. Here are some aspects to consider when using copper ground rods in your project:
- They have reliable durability and longevity. In fact, depending upon the soil type, copper-clad grounding rods can demonstrate excellent performance for 40 years or more.
- They can cost more than galvanized ground rods.
- Copper ground rods can be more prone to corrosion than galvanized ones.
You’ll have to make the decision whether or not to use copper or galvanized ground rods based on soil, level of conductivity, longevity and economical benefit.
Benefits of Galvanized Grounding Rods
The most obvious benefit of a galvanized grounding rod is its protective zinc coating. This enables it to resist corrosion, making it perfect for the harshest environments.
You may have heard the myth that galvanized ground rods are inefficient conductors—that’s simply not true. While copper is a better conductor, its success also depends upon the type of soil and environment.
Copper vs. Galvanized Ground Rods: A Brief Overview
Copper or galvanized ground rods? We’ve compiled a useful table to help you.
Copper-clad
Excellent conductor
Acceptable long-term corrosion protection
More expensive than galvanized rods
100% recyclable–but copper mining negatively impacts the environment
Galvanized
Good conductor
Excellent long-term corrosion protection
Less expensive than copper
Using natural elements and producing recyclable waste, galvanizing remains “green.”
Environmental Considerations of Copper or Galvanized Grounding Rods
At Southern Grounding, we try to realize the impact of everything we do on the environment, and it’s also something we consider with copper or galvanized ground rods.
It’s why we uphold “green” standards at all of our locations. This is something you should consider when deciding what is better—copper or galvanized ground rods.
Copper mining heavily impacts the environment, and problems can arise from:
- Exhaust from heavy machinery that saturates the air
- Deforestation
- Water pollution
However, on the positive side, copper is 100% recyclable.
Galvanizing is a more environmentally friendly alternative as it utilizes zinc, a natural element. The process also creates less waste, and because galvanized materials last longer than their counterparts, there’s less need for rework and repairs. Galvanizing plants also have lower emissions and the created waste is recyclable.
Southern Grounding: Whether You Select Galvanized or Copper Ground Rods, We’ve Got You Covered
Still not sure? Still deciding what is better, copper or galvanized grounding rod? We invite you to take a closer look at the facts, and we’ll walk you through the entire decision-making process.
Regardless of whether you go with copper or galvanized, we have everything you need.
Copper-Clad Ground Rods That Meet the Highest Standards
Our copper ground rods meet or exceed UL and ANSI specifications. Some of the other standards we meet include:
- CSA
- ANSI/UL467
- ASNI C33.8
- RUS
- ASTM-A-1080
…and many others. We’ll be proud to show you the many ways we exceed your expectations.
Hot-Dipped Galvanized Ground Rods That Exceed Your Expectations
Likewise, our hot-dipped galvanized ground rods meet or exceed industry standards, including:
- CSA
- Rural Utilities Service
- ANSI/UL467
- ANSI/NEMA GR-1
- ASTM
…and others.
Don’t Overlook the Importance of UL Specs and National Electrical Code
UL Specs: A Vital Part of Safety
UL (Underwriters Laboratories) is known for setting high standards for any electrical product (including copper or galvanized ground rod) purchased in America.
You can read more about these stringent standards in our earlier blog, “Why You Need UL 467 Ground Rods.”
National Electrical Code: Crucial to Protection
This code, presented by the National Fire Protection Association, is the gold standard for safe electrical design. It also provides guides for installation and inspection to ensure safety and protection from any electrical hazards and is enforced in all 50 states.
We’re proud to say that our ground rods meet or exceed all these standards. Remember: Some of the imported copper rods will have 1 mil. or less copper. This is inferior to our galvanized ground rods, which feature 4 to 8 mil of cover.
When You Need Copper or Galvanized Ground Rods On Time, Southern Grounding Is Your Answer
There are so many ways we have you covered, from the best in both copper or galvanized ground rods, to efficient shipping to a reliability you don’t find from many companies. Our copper or galvanized grounding rods can fit the scope or size of any project you have. See why we’ve been trusted by national companies for decades.
Our knowledgeable representatives are ready to help—just contact us to request a quote.
