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Topic: New Circuit Grounding

User: zooby, Location: Indiana

Asked on: Tuesday, July 29, 2025 at 6:50 am EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, July 29, 2025 at 6:51 am EDT

Question: Circuits pulled from OSRP to RP3.These new circuits intercept below RP3. RP3 is not gen backed panel and we need the fridges and freezers backed up. I have pulled the "existing" four circuits(in RP3) down into the trough below RP3 and are tied onto the new circuits from OSRP. There is a #10 grn pulled in with the four circuits.My question is.....Do these circuits now tie in only with the #10 brought over .....or can the #10 tie into the ground bar in the panel? Thanks much!

Okay, let's break this down to ensure clarity and safety. It sounds like you've essentially created a sub-panel (or a junction box acting as one) fed from OSRP to intercept circuits that were previously fed by RP3 and now need to be generator backed.

Understanding the Situation



OSRP to New Interception Point

You're feeding new circuits (from OSRP) to a location
below RP3. This suggests you've created a new distribution point closer to the fridges and freezers.

RP3's Circuits

The original four circuits that fed the fridges and freezers were routed through RP3. Now, you've disconnected them from RP3 and are connecting them to the new circuits coming from OSRP.

RP3 is Not Generator Backed

This is a key reason for the change.


#10 Green Wire

You've run a #10 green wire along with the new circuits from OSRP. This is almost certainly an equipment grounding conductor (EGC).

The Question: Grounding the New Circuits


The key to answering your question lies in understanding why the #10 green wire was pulled and how it interacts with the rest of your electrical system.

Here's a breakdown of what you need to understand and what's generally required



The Purpose of the #10 Green Wire (EGC)

The #10 green wire is an Equipment Grounding Conductor (EGC). It provides a low-impedance path for fault current to return to the source (OSRP panel). This allows the overcurrent protection device (breaker) to trip quickly in the event of a short circuit or ground fault, preventing shocks and fires.


Why a proper Ground is Critical

In a properly grounded system, when a fault occurs (e.g., a live wire touches the metal chassis of a refrigerator), the fault current flows through the EGC (#10 green wire) back to the source. This high current causes the breaker to trip, disconnecting the circuit and eliminating the hazard.

How the #10 ties into the existing four circuits

You will want to ensure that each of the four existing circuits are using the #10 as the ground/EGC and that the wire is properly landed within the trough.

Answer to Your Question:
In short, the #10 ground wire is the sole EGC for these circuits.Here's a breakdown


#10 Green Wire Connection

The #10 green wire
must be connected to the grounding bar (or the appropriate grounding terminal) within the point of where you are tying in the new OSRP circuits to the existing RP3 circuits. It MUST be connected to the ground bar at OSRP2.

RP3 Ground Bar - DO NOT USE

DO NOT rely on the grounding system within RP3 for the new circuits coming from OSRP. RP3 is not generator backed, and tying to its grounding system would create a potentially dangerous situation. The grounding system for the new circuits MUST originate back at the OSRP panel.

In summary

Connect the #10 EGC from OSRP to the grounding bar at the new interception point AND at the OSRP panel. Make sure each of the four existing circuits has an adequate ground, tied into the #10 green wire.

Important Considerations and Recommendations



Local Codes and Regulations

Always comply with local electrical codes and regulations. This type of work often requires permits and inspections.

Licensed Electrician

It is strongly recommended to have a licensed electrician review and verify this installation. Electrical work can be dangerous if not done correctly.


Wire Sizing

Verify that the #10 green wire is appropriately sized for the overcurrent protection devices (breakers) protecting the circuits. The NEC (National Electrical Code) provides tables for determining the correct EGC size based on the breaker size.

Bonding

Ensure proper bonding of all metallic enclosures, junction boxes, and equipment.


Testing

After installation, test the grounding system to verify its integrity. A simple continuity test can help confirm that the EGC is properly connected.

Neutral wire routing and consideration

Make sure that the neutral wire for these circuits also follows the same path as the new circuits from OSRP to the interception point. If the neutrals are still running through RP3, this could cause issues in the system.

Disclaimer:
I am an AI Chatbot and not an electrical professional. This information is for general guidance only and should not be considered a substitute for professional advice from a qualified electrician. Always prioritize safety and consult with a licensed electrician before undertaking any electrical work.* Flag for review

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