Silent Risks — How Improper Grounding Impacts Home Safety

Many electrical hazards are invisible, and improper grounding is one of the most overlooked. While it may not cause obvious day-to-day issues, poor grounding puts a home—and everyone in it—at significant risk. We take grounding seriously because it plays a vital role in protecting both people and property from electrical faults.

Grounding gives excess electricity a safe path to the earth. It protects against surges, equipment failure, and most importantly, electric shock. Without proper grounding, appliances can become live with electricity, outlets may arc, and the entire system can behave unpredictably under stress.

Homes built before the 1970s often lack proper grounding entirely. In others, ground connections may be loose, corroded, or improperly installed. We’ve found everything from missing ground rods to DIY attempts that fail to meet even basic safety standards.

We evaluate grounding as part of any electrical service—whether we’re installing a panel, updating circuits, or doing a safety inspection. It starts with checking that the main panel is properly bonded and connected to a grounding electrode system. This includes rods driven into the earth or an alternative, code-compliant solution. We also confirm that branch circuits include ground wires and that outlets are properly wired with continuity.

Improper grounding is a serious liability. It can void insurance claims after a fire, damage sensitive electronics, and expose residents to shock in wet areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. Especially in homes with children or older adults, ensuring safe grounding isn’t optional—it’s essential.

Modern home technology only increases the need for a solid grounding system. Surge protection devices, EV chargers, and smart appliances rely on stable grounding to function safely. Without it, these systems can fail or cause broader electrical problems.

We help homeowners upgrade their grounding systems to meet today’s safety expectations and NEC code. Whether it’s a dedicated grounding electrode installation or rewiring a series of ungrounded outlets, we make sure every part of the system is safe and secure.

Protecting your home starts from the ground up.

Contact Clark Electric at (844) 431-8050 or visit our Facebook page to schedule a grounding check or full electrical inspection.

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