What is considered to be a proper grounding method for a tower?

Using separate eight-foot long ground rods for each tower leg, bonded to the tower and each other, is considered a proper grounding method for a tower because it provides a reliable and effective path to ground, which is crucial for safety and performance in ham radio operations.

Grounding a tower correctly helps to prevent lightning damage and minimizes electrical interference. By using multiple ground rods, you enhance the overall grounding system's effectiveness. These extended rods penetrate deeper into the earth, taking advantage of lower soil resistance, which improves conductivity. Bonding each rod to both the tower and to each other creates a cohesive grounding system that distributes any excess electrical energy or surge, thereby protecting the tower and the equipment connected to it.

Other methods, while potentially useful in some contexts, do not provide the same level of reliability or effectiveness. For instance, a single four-foot ground rod may not penetrate deeply enough into the ground to ensure good conductivity and is insufficient for larger structures. A ferrite-core RF choke helps in reducing RF interference but does not serve the purpose of grounding in terms of safety or lightning protection. Lastly, while a connection to a cold water pipe might provide some grounding, it may not meet the necessary codes or provide the same level of safety as dedicated ground rods.