Tjtrout20,
I have been a little lazy and have not picked up a copy of the New 2011 NEC code......
Code is bare minimum safety standards as you know.
Jim
The cold water pipe is part of the Grounding Electrode System. The key word is System, which includes the cold water pipe. Check 250.50 for description of GES.You need to go back to the book.... Only the first 5 feet from point of entrance. NEC 2008 250.52 (A) (1). "Exception" does not apply here.
I have been a little lazy and have not picked up a copy of the New 2011 NEC code......
As far as the correct size of the equipment grounding conductor for 15amp circuits #14awg copper or 20amp circuits #12awg as per 250.122 2011 NEC but nothing wrong with #10 also.True.... I am concerned with protection from physical damage.... #10 will withstand more physical abuse than #14 or even #12. This safety equipment grounding conductor is going to be installed on the exterior of the house. More than likely by the home owner....
Code is bare minimum safety standards as you know.
Jim