In a residential setting, what is the recommended grounding method for metal water piping?

In a residential setting, bonding metal water piping to the service panel is essential for establishing an effective grounding system. This method ensures that all grounded parts of the electrical system, including the metallic water piping, maintain a low-resistance path to ground. By bonding the water piping to the service panel, any fault currents can safely be directed back to the electrical system's ground, reducing the risk of electrical shock and ensuring that overcurrent protection devices can operate effectively.

The practice of bonding also helps prevent differences in electrical potential between the piping and other grounded components, which is crucial in maintaining safety across the entire electrical system. When the metallic water piping is bonded, it also becomes part of the grounding electrode system, enhancing the overall grounding effectiveness by providing a conductive path to ground.

Using a grounding rod, a nearby grounding plate, or a clamp at the meter are alternative grounding methods that might be applicable in other contexts or installations, but they do not provide the same direct bond with the service panel as required in this scenario. Bonding to the service panel is thus the preferred and recommended method for grounding metal water piping, aligning with the requirements outlined in the National Electric Code (NEC) and ensuring compliance with safety standards.