GFCI discussion

Reefugee

New member
Hello All -

With the thousands of dollars that we all spend on this hobby - it still amazes me that some people are still running tanks on non-GFCI outlets. I have heard some say that it's too hard or too expensive to install one. The GFCI parts cost about $15, and installation takes about 15 minutes (max). If you are uncomfortable installing a GFCI switch - you should hire an electrician. You can also purchase one of those wall GFCI adapter plugins or a surge suppressor with a GFCI built in.

There was a thread awhile back where Total Khaos somehow got socked because of loose wiring. This could have been prevented with a GFCI switch. I personally know of another case where a MARS member son pulled a hose out of a sump. Water ended up all over the floor and the surge suppressor sparked. He was lucky that his son didn't get electrocuted.

In my personal experience, a GFCI switch as more than paid for itself. I once accidentally spilled water onto a surge suppressor and ended up standing in a middle of puddle of water with the surge all wet. Luckily for me - the GFCI tripped.

Anyway - I posted this because a few thread on the BAR RC forum reminded me how important one of these GFCI switches are. There may be some new members that have not heard the "lecture" so I just wanted to let them know. You can read more on the BAR forum at :

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=787613
http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=788897

I think this weekend, I will do a "how to" install a GFCI switch and post the instruction.

Minh
 
I was an electrician for 6 years.
If you want me to install one for you, I'd be happy to.
And since I'm just starting in this hobby payment can be simple things like a floating magnet or something ;)

PM me if you're intersted, These devices can save lives...
 
one of those threads was mine. It's strange how GFCI's aren't really known to new hobbyists. I mean, when I started I was exposed to literally everything with a lot of research, EXCEPT gfci's. They aren't mentioned enough in newbie startup setup tutorials etc. I think the emphasis on them isn't well known. This thread is a good idea for the club.
 
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