What is the primary purpose of bonding the copper water pipes in a residential home?

The primary purpose of bonding copper water pipes in a residential home is to facilitate tripping of a breaker, which is related to electrical safety. Bonding is the process of ensuring that all metal components within an electrical system are interconnected to provide a low-resistance path for electrical current. In the case of copper water pipes, bonding them helps to prevent potential differences in voltage between the pipes and the electrical system.

If a fault occurs, such as a short circuit, electrical current will have a path to safely ground, triggering the circuit breaker to trip. This enhances safety by reducing the risk of electric shock or fire hazards that can arise from stray electrical currents. Proper bonding is especially important in homes where metal piping is present, as it minimizes the risk of dangerous electrical faults.

The other options, while they may present relevant aspects of plumbing and water supply, do not capture the critical safety function of bonding when it comes to electricity. Improving water flow, preventing rusting, and enhancing water pressure relate more to plumbing functionalities rather than the electrical safety role that bonding serves.