What is the preferred method for grounding a service in Colorado?

The preferred method for grounding a service in Colorado is driven ground rods. This method is widely recognized for its effectiveness in providing a low-resistance path to ground, which is essential for protecting both people and equipment from electrical faults. Ground rods, typically made of copper or galvanized steel, are driven into the earth to establish a reliable connection to the ground.

Using driven ground rods ensures that the electrical service is properly grounded, thereby reducing the risk of electrical shock and fire hazards. Local soil conditions in Colorado can vary significantly, and driven ground rods can often achieve the necessary resistivity to meet grounding requirements efficiently.

Other methods, such as metal pipes or buried copper mesh, may provide a measure of grounding, but they are not as effective or reliable as driven ground rods for establishing a strong and compliant grounding system as per the National Electrical Code and local amendments. Concrete encasement can also contribute to grounding but is not as commonly used as the direct method of driven ground rods.