Almost Electrocuted

[sturner]

JJust felt like sharing this with everyone. My skimmer has been down for a couple of weeks now since the ceramic shaft for the impeller broke. Well I ordered the new part and received it yesterday. Unfortunately that part was not the only thing wrong… After I replaced the part I placed everything back in the aquarium and plugged it in. When I reached in to adjust the skimmer I got the shock of my life…literally! So I unplugged it and took it out to inspect it only to find a hairline crack in the housing of the powerhead! When I shook it I could even hear water inside the pump! This could have been a whole lot worse for sure! Now I'm asking myself, do I just order a replacement pump, or get a new skimmer. :notsure: What would you guys do?

 

[watson3]

You should be ok with just a new pump

 

[geridoc]

First, before anything else, I would get a GFCI on the tank. You were lucky this time, but there is always a next time.

 

[ejensen]

That is not so bad. I got shocked by my light fixture. I was stuck for about 5 second getting shocked. Not a good thing.

 

[yimmy]

This wasnt getting shocked from my fish tank but my sisters hair dryer when I got out of the shower... HORRIBLE. I had to take my other hand and smack it off.

 

[psusocr1]

i would never live or work with electronics around water without a GFCI... Bad move and not funny , thank god your o.k!

 

[viper_930]

Originally Posted by sturner
Now I'm asking myself, do I just order a replacement pump, or get a new skimmer. :notsure: What would you guys do?
What skimmer was it? If it's not a good skimmer might as well just upgrade while you're at it.

 

[murray bmf]

I had a heater in my tank go bad, I got zapped, it sucked!

As for the skimmer, if you like it and it's a good one, replace the pump, if not,her's a good opportunity to upgrade!

 

[zeroghd]

You are lucky. 110 volt home electricity will kill easier than any other voltage. It only takes 1/2 an amp to take you out. Definately make sure you use a GFCI any time you are dealing with water and electricity.