I have a 1985 house boat with aluminum hull. When I installed a generator 2 years ago, the code called for isolating the hull from ground. I understand the 2003 NEC now calls for grounding the hull through shore power cord to the power post. I am not an electrical engineer, but I am a mechanical engineer with industrial machinery experience. Grounding the hull seems wrong to me as it's a sure way to cause a voltage between the hull and the water, thereby being a safety problem for swimmers boarding the boat, as well as cause electolosis problems in the hull material.
Can you tell me reasons for changing the code to include grounding the hull? Are there any safety problems with not grounding the hull?
Thanks!
Can you tell me reasons for changing the code to include grounding the hull? Are there any safety problems with not grounding the hull?
Thanks!