Electrifying !

These reef tanks require many electrical outlets, not to mention down the road with new equipment additions. I have recently called an electrician to add a dedicated c[FONT='Calibri','sans-serif']ircuit and after reading this will include the GFI option. Being in an office envirement, I am sure this would be a conversation with our fire marshal. They always come once a year with required inspection rounds and he is about due. Definitely an issue to get done asap.[/FONT]
 
That is what I did, dedicated 20amp line just for the tank, and everything is plugged into GFCI outlets. They still can leak very small amts. of current into the water though without tripping. So, you still need to use some amt of caution when messing around with the tank. Even with ground probes, there can still be some current present in the water.
Matt
 
Do NOT use a ground probe without a GFCI. If you have stray voltage in your tank the ground probe is providing a path to ground. For one you will not know there is a problem. Two, if you stick your hand in the water you can still get electrocuted if you come in contact with that path of electricity.

If you use a GFCI it is recommended to have a ground probe, but not needed.

Do NOT put all your equipment on one GFCI plug. If you do your are asking for trouble. If for some reason it trips either from a drop of water hitting the power strip or from equipment failure all equipment attached will be shut off. Think of this happening while on vacation. Use multiple GFCI plugs.
 
GFI's are a must in this hobby. Ground Probes, although they will help in the case of a short in the tank are meant more for stray voltage which has been shown to cause various malidies to fish, and suspected to cause more with inverts and corals. I recommend both as a procaution. And always inspect heaters, pumps and all cords for salt creep and any wear points that need to be repaired properly.
 
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