Filter wire damaged, suggestions?

Discussion in 'General Equipment discussion' started by Nirv, Jun 8, 2010.

  1. Nirv

    Nirv Trachelyopterus

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    In our 100L community tank we are using two internal powerhead filters. These two filters are quite ancient and we recently noticed that both have damage to the black wires leading into the top of the filter. The two smaller wires inside are exposed but obviously still insulated. There is no immediate danger of these wires being exposed to the water, but I am wondering what can be used to cover the damaged area successfully under water.

    Would insulation tape remain in position if continuously under water?

    Thanks for any suggestions.
     
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  3. TroyFish

    TroyFish

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    Iv used insulation tape for about 4 weeks now and is still holding. You can get waterproof ones if you not satisfied.
     
  4. johan008

    johan008

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    I don't believe insulation tape is the best root to go,the reason for that is that the glue COULD be toxic(could be wrong) to the fish if I where you I would rather go with silicone and silicone is more flexible and of course water proof

    Just my 2c hope it helps
     
  5. brads

    brads

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    Use silicone over some good quality heat shrink, it will look normal


    Cheers
     
  6. Khalid

    Khalid Loricariidae

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    Bite the bullet and just buy another filter or two
     
  7. OP
    Nirv

    Nirv Trachelyopterus

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    Thanks for the suggestions, all seem valid. I'm wondering if perhaps it would be best to get new filters; I don't want to take any chances with the fish's or my safety. If I use silicon it will put the filters out of action for a few hours but it may work quite well.
     
  8. Zoom

    Zoom Retired Moderator

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    Silicon won't bond properly, and will crack open when bent.

    Insulation tape is NOT water proof. This is a MYTH of the stuff... NEVER hear of waterproof insulation either. The tape also comes loose under water... and the glue may be toxic.

    Go get yourself a "splicing" kit from an electrical wholesale. It's a plastic contraption that fits over the wires, and you then squeeze a resin into the container. It dries hard, completely waterproof, and non-toxic when fully cured. But the cost of these kits could equal new filters.

    Just on a side note: these splicing kits are the ONLY LEGAL way of joining wires outside. If you have an electrician that is joining wires using insulation tape, or screwits, then he's got a problem. (Unless of course he is doing the joints in a sealed electrical box of course :p)
     
  9. TroyFish

    TroyFish

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    Its just called insulation tape, its for industrial use. Thats the waterproof one, didnt get a name of the company unfortunately
     
  10. OP
    Nirv

    Nirv Trachelyopterus

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    Thanks for the info Zoom. I think these wires will invariably bend so silicon is probably not the answer.
     

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