Electrics question

[Jacana1]

I have a Jaguar 21, am fitting a shore power facility. The consumer unit I have has an earth cable running from it. Where does it go??? I have no inboard engine or any other metal to earth it to. Do I need to use it anyway?
Cheers.
David.

 

[SAWDOC]

have you a keel?
Do you really need shore power?

 

[Gwylan]

Should go to all the sockets and any mains voltage devices that you have installed?

 

[matelot]

sounds as if you are using domestic equipment which is definitely dodgy in a small boat.

I'm as inclined as the next man to cut corners and ignore rules, but I would be very nervous of wiring up a small boat like your without finding out exactly how it should be done from the pros and buying the proper marine kit.

you're more likely to kill yourself on board through dodgy mains wiring or dodgy gas installations than you are through bad weather

 

[VicS]

The incoming earth should be connected to the earth terminal as should the earth terminals of all sockets and all fixed appliances with earth earth terminals.

I assume the consumer unit has an RCD and MCBs for all circuits.

The sockets you fit will need to be fitted in enclosed boxes preferably with glands for the cable entries.

To comply fully with ISO13297, and ABYC and CE standards the ships earth, 12volt negative, anodes engine etc should be connected to the earth but the subject is highly debatable anyway. In your case it does not really apply.

If you do opt to connect the earth to your anodes (if you have any) then you would be strongly advised to fit a galvanic isolator in the incoming earth connection especially if the shore power will be left connected for long periods (in use or not).

Some useful reading HERE on Sterling's website

 

[lumphammer]

Simpler on a small boat just to use an extension lead isn't it?

 

[pikeyrm]

i use one of these on my 23ft pageant. easier and safer
http://www.force4.co.uk/1062/Force-4-Trailing-Socket.html
make sure that you buy a good cable to attach to the power supply tho. i use artic cable, a bit more expensive put worth it