Stray current

[Quantum Aquaria]

what do you guys do about this? I've heard mixed opinions...

 

Early, I got a little shock when I stuck my hand in the tank... after unplugging things one by one.. turned out to be one of the heaters

 

Would a ground probe help alleviate these types of stray current?

[Origami]

More likely a GFCI would.

[quazi]

GFCI is a requirement for an aquarium circuit. I added a ground probe, and I no longer get any shocks. Worth the couple of bucks, IMHO.

 

Incidentally, toss the heater!

[Coral Hind]

A properly installed ground probe would provide a more direct path to ground for the stray current. A GFCI is a must for items like heaters and internal pumps.

 

So how many times did you get shocked before you narrowed it down to the heater?

[Quantum Aquaria]

a bunch of times.. i'm hard headed like that... i don't have a gfi outlet... but saw that they sell the gfi plugs and suge protectors... are those just as good?

[quazi]

It is very easy to install a GFI outlet. If you have ever replaced a light switch, replacing an outlet is similar. Just make sure you turn off the electricity to the outlet

 

I have found the GFI surge protectors to be too fussy and trip too easily. But I have only used one.

[Coral Hind]

I have used the GFCI adapter plugs at work for portable tools and I have never had any issues with them.

[Coral Hind]

Let me know if you decide to install a GFCI outlet rather then using the adapter type. I can swing by and help, it will only take a few minutes.

Edited October 22, 2009 by Coral Hind

[Quantum Aquaria]

Let me know if you decide to install a GFCI outlet rather then using the adapter type. I can swing by and help, it will only take a few minutes.

 

Thanks David. Might have to take you up on that offer... unless of course, you think based on what you indicated earlier that the portable gfi plugs are just as good.

 

So, the next question i have is should each device have it's own GFI outlet, or can you plug a few into a multi-adapter to one outlet?

 

Also, how does the ground probe work? stick the probe in the tank, and plug it into a gfi outlet?

[Coral Hind]

Yes you can put more then one item on a GFCI and multi-adapters are fine. It is best to have a couple of GFCI circuits on the tank with pumps split up so if one does trip you do not lose everything.

 

The ground probe, depending on the design, normally just plugs into a grounded outlet or it will have a crimped terminal loop that is secured with a screw to a grounded outlet or other means of ground.

[Quantum Aquaria]

so thinking about getting a few of these guys below. Anyone use them? http://www.marinedepot.com/Tower_Shock_Bus...-FIMIGF-vi.html

[Coral Hind]

Here is basically the same thing but cheaper. Your local store might have it.

 

http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.js...oductId=3150602

[amos]

With the GFCIs, consider that many don't automatically reset after a power outtage (there was a thread on this recently). I bought one from home depot that I had to constantly reset following a power outtage (not normally a big deal until you it happens when you are away on a trip). Some of them DO reset automatically after a power outtage. I bought the line version from marine depot and it does.

 

Jon

[davelin315]

Usually when one trips after power outages is because it's improperly sized. You have to match it to the power of the outlet - 20 amp needs a 20 amp, 15 needs a 15 amp, 10 amp needs a 10 amp, at least that's what I've experienced and been told. The cheapest and most reliable way in my opinion is to simply install the outlets. They are easy to install and you can even take the opportunity to add a bigger junction box and chain them together so that they run independently of each other. I did all of mine myself and it's a snap.