gfci's and why you should use them

 

GFCI's, or ground fault circuit interruptors, will turn off automatically if any of the items plugged into it short circuit, ie, by being dropped into water. Pumps malfunctioning or heaters breaking can destroy your farm if you are not using a GFCI. GFCI power strips and extension cords are available at any home department store, and are much cheaper than replacing your tank (or your house) if anything should fail or short circuit. The cords pictured below got a few drops of water on them and burned up without a GFCI.