MiddReef Posted July 24, 2008 Share Posted July 24, 2008 So after reading up on the importance of grounding probes, I shelled out the $15 for peace of mind. Anyways, I received a titanium probe from Drs. F/S, but I didn't realize it wouldn't have a full 3-prong plug attached to it. Instead, it has a ground "loop" that the instructions say to screw into the ground screw of a ground outlet. Unfortunately for me, I've only got a ground surge protector within the 10 foot range of the probe. Before I send it back, here's my question for all of the NR electricians out there: Could I just place the loop around the ground prong on one of my other pieces of equipment before plugging it in, effectively hitching a ride to the ground? Or is that a horrible idea bound to end in failure and/or electrical fire? Looking to improve tank safety, not obliterate my house. Thanks for tolerating the anti Coulomb... -Midd Link to comment
MiddReef Posted July 25, 2008 Author Share Posted July 25, 2008 Bump for helllpp! Having new equipment and not using it is the worst! Link to comment
SPS20 Posted July 26, 2008 Share Posted July 26, 2008 Yes you can "hitch" it onto another plug without problems. Use a GFCI as well, and put your entire system on its own breaker, appropriately sized for the anticipated peak load of the system. Both a GFCI and a ground probe together are the only insurance against electrocution. A good article on the subject: (and a cautionary tale) http://joejaworski.wordpress.com/2007/09/0...ist-found-dead/ Link to comment
MiddReef Posted July 27, 2008 Author Share Posted July 27, 2008 Yes you can "hitch" it onto another plug without problems. Use a GFCI as well, and put your entire system on its own breaker, appropriately sized for the anticipated peak load of the system. Both a GFCI and a ground probe together are the only insurance against electrocution. A good article on the subject: (and a cautionary tale) http://joejaworski.wordpress.com/2007/09/0...ist-found-dead/ Thanks for the advice, I just get a little nervous whenever electricity and salt water come in close proximity....I appreciate your tips, I'm going to go rewire a bit here.... Just to check: basically I'm just fine having the metal loop off the probe to slip over the ground prong of a different 3 prong device. Right? Link to comment
SPerry Posted July 27, 2008 Share Posted July 27, 2008 I bought a 3 prong end from Lowes. Took the 2 blades out and attached the probe wire to the ground. Plug it into a GFCI outlet. Link to comment
MiddReef Posted July 27, 2008 Author Share Posted July 27, 2008 Clever DIY...I've got some work to do! Thanks for all your help guys! Link to comment
Recommended Posts
Archived
This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.