Anyone know about fish pumps? Submerged 230v??

[rocker]

After inadvertently drilling a hole in my pond, rescuing one fish from the jaws of death and literally bringing the other back to life, I now have an aquarium. (No this is not a prank call originating from a Durham area code). The issue I have is that pump we got with it isn't a plug-in transformer with ELV or whatever going into the tank, it's a 230v normal plug top with a bit of flex going to the pump, which doesn't have any IP rating stamped on it or anything, and according to the instructions should be completely suberged. The missus just went to scoop a bit of pond weed out of the top with her hand and I had to shout at her to turn the thing off first... I just don't trust it, am I just being paranoid or is this not normal?

 

[DaveyD]

Yes, they are all submerged like that Rocker.

 

[DiscoDave]

Chances are that it's a sealed magnetic coil, usually filled right up with resin or the like.

 

[telectrix]

i've got 4 of these 230v pumps in water features. they appear to be perfectly safe, but, having said that, it's always possible for the flex to become damaged and it's advisable to unplug pump before putting hands in water. if a fault were to develop though, the RCD should trip

 

[Guest123]

My aquarium pumps and heaters are all 230V, had em years, no problems.

As said they're all sealed in resin so 'should' always be fine.

 

[rocker]

Yep the RCD should trip out if there's a fault, and I do test it pretty regularly, but you know what they're like! I may try and do something with an IP rated switch that means that the power is cut if the lid is opebed, what do you reckon? Yea it's overkill, but I don't fancy coming home to a crispy missus......

 

[telectrix]

puts a new slant on the " just warming your supper, honey"

 

[DurhamSparky]

(No this is not a prank call originating from a Durham area code)?

errrrmmmmm!!!

 

[cbw]

I think as well as the 'thanks' button we also need an 'up your bottom' button!

 

[DurhamSparky]

hahahahaha!! you recovered now james!! hows the head!