Is there voltage in your tank?

Discussion in 'General Reef Topics' started by mdbostwick, Apr 11, 2015.

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  1. mdbostwick

    mdbostwick Vlamingii Tang

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    So there has been a discussion going on in another thread about stray voltage and the use, or disuse, of grounding probes. So I wanted to start this thread just as a gathering information page.

    What I am hoping to accomplish is to possibly shed some light on this subject but am needing some data first.

    Please reply with any voltage you find using a multimeter between your tank water and the ground in an electrical socket and if you use a grounding probe or not.

    I appreciate the participation.
     
    mdbostwick, Apr 11, 2015
    mdbostwick, Apr 11, 2015
    #1
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  2. Windy

    Windy Spanish Shawl Nudibranch

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    What do the multimeter readings indicate. Voltage potential. AC or DC? What scale? Are you serious?
     
    Windy, Apr 11, 2015
    Windy, Apr 11, 2015
    #2
  3. mdbostwick

    mdbostwick Vlamingii Tang

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    Replies I am looking for would look similar to:

    12v and i don't have a probe.

    I am really not looking for any other response other than these two pieces of information, and would greatly appreciate if the replies were left only to this information. Thank you again.
     
    mdbostwick, Apr 11, 2015
    mdbostwick, Apr 11, 2015
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  4. Kevin_E

    Kevin_E Giant Squid

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    Yes. My tank gives me a tingle if I have a cut. I think it read 39 when I measured it a while ago.

    I unplugged everything at a time and nothing really brought it down without turning off everything.

    I think it's the power strip.
     
    Kevin_E, Apr 11, 2015
    Kevin_E, Apr 11, 2015
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  5. Vinnyboombatz

    Vinnyboombatz Giant Squid

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    Great thread MD.;)I don't have a voltmeter but will get one.I am very interested to see other peoples results.Windy I am sure you have a voltmeter.:D.I am thinking everyone will have some voltage present.o_O
    Pumps use magnets and create magnetic fields.Is it possible you are detecting them as voltage?
    Try taking measurements as far away from equipment as possible but check mutiple places cause there could be variations.
    P.S. Also if you have carpet in your house be sure you are not "charged" with static.lol
     
    Last edited: Apr 12, 2015
    Vinnyboombatz, Apr 12, 2015
    Vinnyboombatz, Apr 12, 2015
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  6. mdbostwick

    mdbostwick Vlamingii Tang

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    It is very possible magnetic fields are causing the voltage reading. Something I am trying to figure out.

    Good thought on the static charge as well! ;)
     
    mdbostwick, Apr 12, 2015
    mdbostwick, Apr 12, 2015
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  7. DSC reef

    DSC reef Giant Squid

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    Good thread md. I never put a meter in my tank. Lots of good info here. I think I have to buy a meter and give it a go.
     
    DSC reef, Apr 12, 2015
    DSC reef, Apr 12, 2015
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