Okay, this is a serious situation, and you're right to be concerned. 1.8-4.6 volts might seem low, but it's enough to cause a tingle, and in some situations, could be more dangerous. The fact that it affects your neighbors and seems to be influenced by the pool bonding wire strongly suggests a neutral-to-earth voltage (NEV) issue. Let's break down the problem and potential solutions

Understanding the Problem:
Neutral-to-Earth Voltage (NEV)

This occurs when there's a difference in potential between the neutral conductor and the earth (ground). Ideally, these should be at the same potential (0 volts). The voltage you're measuring is the result of current flowing on the neutral conductor and the resistance of the earth.

Causes of NEV



Shared Neutral

In many residential electrical systems, the neutral conductor is shared among multiple circuits. Imbalances in the loads on those circuits cause current to flow back on the neutral.

Loose Neutral Connections

A loose connection on the neutral anywhere in your electrical system (or even the utility's system) can increase resistance and cause voltage drop, leading to NEV.

Faulty Appliances

Some appliances can leak a small amount of current to ground, contributing to NEV.

Utility Issues

Sometimes, the problem originates on the utility's side. Issues like a bad neutral connection in their transformers or distribution network can cause widespread NEV issues.

Ground Loops

Multiple ground paths can create a ground loop, leading to current flow and NEV.

Why the Pool is Sensitive

The pool water and the bonding wire create a large, conductive surface connected to your grounding system. This makes the pool very sensitive to any stray voltage in the ground. Removing the bonding wire essentially isolates the pool from the rest of the grounding system, masking the problem but not solving it.

Your Observations and What They Mean



Voltage Changes with Bonding Wire

This is a key clue. It confirms that the voltage in the pool is related to the overall grounding system. The fact it drops when you disconnect the pump bonding wire shows that the bonding wire is providing a path for the current to flow.

Voltage Remains After Killing Breakers

This is significant. It indicates the source of the NEV is likely not within your own household circuits or appliances. This points strongly to an external source, such as the utility's neutral or a neighboring house.

Neighbor's Voltage

The varying voltage at your neighbors' meters further supports the idea of a larger, widespread NEV problem in your area.

Recent Ceiling Fan Installation

While less likely, it's good to be thorough. A faulty ceiling fan could introduce some current leakage.

Weather and Sudden Onset

Electrical problems often manifest after storms due to weakened connections or water intrusion.

Doorbell and Garage Door Issues

This is another important clue. These events happening simultaneously suggest a power surge or voltage fluctuation affecting multiple electrical components. It strengthens the suspicion of an external (utility) issue.

House Age

Being a new house built in 2023, the chances of internal wiring problems are less than an older home. This again points to external issues.

Immediate Steps and Troubleshooting


SAFETY FIRST

Do not allow anyone to swim in the pool until the problem is resolved. Even a small voltage can be dangerous, especially to children and people with certain medical conditions.2.

Ceiling Fan Check

While unlikely, isolate this as a potential source. Turn off the breaker to the ceiling fan for an extended period and re-check the voltage.3.

Contact the Utility (EMC/Electric Company)

This is the most important step. Explain the situation clearly and calmly, emphasizing the following: You have a voltage difference between neutral and earth. The issue is affecting your neighbors. The voltage persists even when all your breakers are off. Mention the doorbell and garage door issues happening at the same time. Describe the pool shocking hazard. Request that they investigate their neutral connection in your area, including transformers and distribution lines.4.

Document Everything

Keep detailed records of your voltage readings (time, location, voltage), conversations with the utility, and any work done. This will be useful if the problem persists or you need to involve other parties.5.

Professional Electrical Inspection (After Utility Investigation)

If the utility says they can't find a problem or the issue continues after their investigation, hire a licensed and experienced electrician who specializes in grounding and bonding. They can perform more in-depth tests and potentially isolate the source of the NEV. Look for someone who specifically understands pool bonding and NEV issues.6.

Consider a Second Opinion from a Different Electrician

If you aren't happy with the results of the first electrician, get another opinion.7.

Stop Adding Ground Rods

Additional ground rods are not a solution in this case and may even complicate the issue. A good grounding system is important, but it's not the root cause of the NEV.

What the Utility Will Likely Do



Check Their Neutral Connections

They will inspect the neutral connections at the transformer serving your neighborhood and along the distribution lines. Loose or corroded connections are a common cause of NEV.

Test for Ground Faults

They may use specialized equipment to look for ground faults in their system that could be contributing to the problem.

Monitor Voltage Levels

They might monitor the voltage at your meter and at the transformer to see if there are any fluctuations or imbalances.

Investigate Neighbor's Services

They might check the grounding and neutral connections at your neighbors' homes as well.

Important Considerations



Don't Try to Fix This Yourself

Working with electrical systems is dangerous, and you could make the problem worse. Call professionals.

This is Not "Normal"

While some small amount of NEV is inevitable, the voltage you're seeing and the fact that it's causing shocks is not acceptable. Be persistent with the utility until they resolve the issue.

Code Compliance

Ensure your pool and electrical system are fully compliant with local electrical codes.

In summary, your situation strongly suggests a utility-related neutral problem. Contacting the utility is the critical first step. Good luck, and please keep us updated on your progress. Flag for review