What should be done to all external ground rods or earth connections?

Bonding all external ground rods or earth connections together with heavy wire or conductive strap is essential to create a common ground point. This practice ensures that all parts of the system are at the same electrical potential, which is critical for safety and proper operation. By bonding these ground rods, you help to minimize ground loops and reduce the risk of electrical shock or equipment damage due to differences in ground potential.

This bonded connection also helps to provide a low-resistance path for fault currents, which is extremely important during a lightning strike or equipment failure. An effective grounding system significantly enhances the overall reliability and safety of the electrical setup.

Furthermore, ensuring all ground connections are properly bonded helps to effectively augment the grounding system's performance across various frequencies, thus improving overall radio transmission and reception.