Stray Voltage + Ground Probe = Stray Current

I did notice that a lot of the reasoning in that thread for using ground probes is the exact reason one should use GFCI protected receps for all aquarium equipment. Namely getting shocked when sticking your hand in the tank.

A properly GFCI protected aquarium will not shock you and does not require a ground probe which could potentially harm the inhabitants.

 

It lives in the sump.

I've always had a GFCI outlet. However I had a Stealth heater that was leaking current into the tank. I would feel it when my arm was in the tank and it brushed up against my light fixture. It wasn't enough current to make the GFCI trip. I decided to replace the heater and add the ground probe as a precaution.

I have not seen any negative impact on the inhabitants after adding the probe. I was reluctant to add it because I didn't want to turn stray voltage into stray current. I did it for personal safety.

 

Hmmm,

Well stated pgreef. Thanks.