electrical help

[mph84]

Hey Guys,

I just hooked up a Aqua Uv 40 watt I picked up from a member and I'm getting 17 volts in my tank. I am stumped on this one because the quartz sleeve is completely dry. So how the heck does voltage get through to the water? Any ideas will help. Thanks in advance

Mike

 

[rdnelson]

The insulation could be cracked or just breaking down. Over time, especially in caustic atmosphere or solutions the insulating properties can degrade. How old is it? But, I bet if you took everything electrical out of your tank, you would still read voltage. It could be nothing.

 

[cbj25]

Could it be the pump feeding the uv?

 

[mph84]

the uv runs off of my dart so no. The power jumps from 4 volts to 17 when I turn the uv on. I'm ok with a little bit of voltage in there but 17 is a but much I think... What insulation are you speaking of Rich? unsure on the age of the uv but it has a new bulb and quartz sleeve.

 

[rdnelson]

I have never looked at a uv lights so I don't know exactly how they are built. But the Irving needs to connect to the lamp somehow. If the insulation at that pint has degraded it could be the problem. Or, if any moisture is getting into the connection it also could be your problem. Wish I had one to look at. Would be easier to guess. LOL. But, if you see that kind of change and it is consistent I would say you found the problem. You may be able to fix it but is it worth the risk?

 

[mph84]

I'm just wondering how if it is not wet is it getting into the tank???

 

[rdnelson]

Wish I could give you a good answer but without seeing it I would be guessing. But, somewhere you have a quasi conductor completing a pathetic between the electrical and the water. It could be a frayed wire with on stand touching metal which in turn touches the water.

 

[rdnelson]

I meant path not pathetic.

 

[mph84]

Thanks for all the help rich.

 

[rdnelson]

I don't know that I helped any but your certainly welcome anyway. .

 

[mph84]

Well you tried! Thats counts for something right!?