GFCI & Ground Probe ?

Discussion in 'General Reef Topics' started by clarky2120, Jun 3, 2012.

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  1. clarky2120

    clarky2120 Bubble Tip Anemone

    Joined:
    Mar 14, 2010
    Messages:
    684
    Location:
    Orlando
    My setup: All of my equipment is plugged into Tripp-Lite GFCI power strip (pic attached). The power strips are plugged into normal wall outlets. The only thing not plugged into the GFCI is my MP40w, which should never cause a problem because the power is outside the tank.

    If I were to set up a grounding probe can I attach it to the ground screw inside my regular wall outlet or do I tie it to the Tripp-Lite? Or should I just not even use a ground probe? The ground probe I plan on using is the ultralife grounding probe (pic attached).
     

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  3. needmorecowbell

    needmorecowbell Torch Coral

    Joined:
    Jan 14, 2012
    Messages:
    1,174
    Location:
    pittsburgh pennsylvania
    Ground probes are a highly debatable topic. I personally say if your using a gfci, you don't need it.

    As for the gfci, it will do what it's supposed to do, and its job is quite simple: measure incoming power and outgoing power, if the ratio is different, it shuts off. So basically if there is electricity escaping somewhere ( could be you, could be the ground, anything) it shuts off. If there is a full circuit ( an example would be sticking two fingers in an outlet. There isn't any missing electricity), it wont shut off. It's done it's job.