Antenna mount

[browndk26]

Can I mount a directional antenna such as an RCA ant751 safely on my electrical utility service? In the attached pictures I would mount it about half way up the pole. Well below the electrical lines. Would the ground for the electrical service work for the antenna as well? I am primarily interested in the 4 major commercial networks and PBS.

http://www.tvfool.com/?option=com_wr...e1c60c9ea51b73

[GroundUrMast]

The national electrical code prohibits such an arrangement. You need to maintain at least 2' of separation between the antenna system and the electrical service mast;

810.13 Avoidance of Contacts with Conductors of
Other Systems. Outdoor antennas and lead-in conductors
from an antenna to a building shall not cross over open
conductors of electric light or power circuits and shall be
kept well away from all such circuits so as to avoid the
possibility of accidental contact. Where proximity to open
electric light or power service conductors of less than 250
volts between conductors cannot be avoided, the installation
shall be such as to provide a clearance of at least
600 mm (2 ft).
Where practicable, antenna conductors shall be installed
so as not to cross under open electric light or power
conductors.

However, the code does provide you the option to connect the antenna system grounding conductor(s) to the electrical service raceway (the meter base can and conduit(s)). See 810.21(F)(2)(4);

810.21
...
(F) Electrode. The grounding conductor shall be connected
as required in (F)(1) through (F)(3).
(1) In Buildings or Structures with an Intersystem Bonding
Termination. If the building or structure served has an
intersystem bonding termination, the grounding conductor
shall be connected to the intersystem bonding termination.
(2) In Buildings or Structures with Grounding Means.
If the building or structure served has no intersystem
bonding termination, the grounding conductor shall be connected
to the nearest accessible location on the following:

(1) The building or structure grounding electrode system
as covered in 250.50
(2) The grounded interior metal water piping systems,
within 1.52 m (5 ft) from its point of entrance to the
building, as covered in 250.52
(3) The power service accessible means external to the
building, as covered in 250.94
(4) The metallic power service raceway
(5) The service equipment enclosure, or
(6) The grounding electrode conductor or the grounding
electrode conductor metal enclosures

A bonding device intended to provide a termination
point for the grounding conductor (intersystem bonding)
shall not interfere with the opening of an equipment enclosure.
A bonding device shall be mounted on non-removable
parts. A bonding device shall not be mounted on a door or
cover even if the door or cover is non-removable.

My preference is to take the antenna system grounding conductors straight to the existing ground rod. It's the the single point in the grounding system that is supposed to be the common 'zero' reference point for the entire electrical ground system.

[browndk26]

Thanks for the info.

[GroundUrMast]

Would a wall mounted J-pole work in your situation? http://www.amazon.com/Winegard-DS-20...B5E1CFV2XDGF5D

Be sure to check the antenna clamp size vs. the J-pole diameter.

[browndk26]

Originally Posted by GroundUrMast

Would a wall mounted J-pole work in your situation? http://www.amazon.com/Winegard-DS-20...B5E1CFV2XDGF5D

Be sure to check the antenna clamp size vs. the J-pole diameter.

I think a J-pole is included with the ANT 751. I would have to mount it to the brick. My home has no wooden soffits or trim. But that is a possible solution.

I would have an antenna mounted on the chimney but it costs to much for someone to do it. I do not feel comfortable being on a tall ladder or on my roof.

[GroundUrMast]

The chimney mount would be my choice if the antenna is not subject to much smoke or fuel gas exhaust.

However, mounting to brick is not too difficult if you have access to a rotary hammer drill. The big box home centers rent them in this part of the country. And they can suggest the appropriate masonry fasteners. But be sure to assess the condition of the mortar so you don't end up with loose bricks or related damage to the masonry.