petere1989
New member
does anybody use these? together? seperate? and if so, can you tell me brands that you use?
Be aware that if you have a battery backup, you will likely need to add a GFI plug after the backup, since the battery backup will essentially negate the GFCI protection of the outlet it's plugged into.
You probably aren't drawing enough for it to be an issue. The average space heater draws way more than a decent sized tank setup.
You can purchase a kil-o-watt meter for $30 at lowes / depot that can tell you exactly how much your tank is drawing, or do the math and add up everything you have plugged in.
A surge protector is a good idea, but it does exactly what it says it does - protect you from surges from the power company / lightning. A surge protector will not protect you from getting electrocuted or protect your tank in the event of a power outage.
You should be plugging everything in to a GFCI outlet. this is a device that constantly monitors the power and shuts down if it detects a short. They will work even with the old two-prong plugs likely found in your grandmas house.
Apart from that, its up to you. Virtually all battery backup units double as surge protectors and will take the hit in the event of a power surge. They do not draw much power themselves, only enough to keep their batteries charged.
If you do not have a GFCI outlet for your tank, you can buy short extension cords with one built in. Plug that in to the wall, and everything for your tank into the end of the extension cord. Don't forget drip loops!