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High voltage, high power, water and electricity don't mix, and GFIs.
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Capacitor Risks!

posted by Beech nut on May 27 2006
Updated on May 27 2006

Capacitors carry more risks than just shock.
We all know capacitors can hold a charge for many days. Did you know electrolytic capacitors can explode if powered after they have dried out, or hooked up backwards, or too high a voltage is applied? I've seen one capacitors top blow off and bounce off the ceiling. Not something you'd want in your eye. Safety Goggles, don't be too lazy to use them.
Some capacitors are also defective and will explode or leak eventually. I have replaced many motherboards which were built around year 2000. For more info, check out http:/www.badcaps.net

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Water Project Safety Tips

posted by Andywang on May 27 2006
Updated on May 27 2006

Water adds a serious risk of electrocution! Here are some ways I can think of to help decrease the risk. Please add or comment!
  • Use only low voltage valves designed for lawn sprinklers and low voltage pumps for garden fountains.
  • Use plastic non-conductive piping. (Be sure piping is rated above the pressure needed and that joints are put together per instructions.)
  • Insulate all connections. 3M makes some inslated crimp connectors which now have heatshrink built in!
  • Keep connections in a dry location.
  • Protect wires from abrasion.
  • Use plastic buttons and a non-conductive housings.
  • Keep positive and negative wiring bundled together.
  • Use battery power whenever possible.
  • For household AC, use a high quality low voltage power supply and keep it indoors. Do not bring household AC outdoors.
  • For household AC, install a GFI (Ground Fault Interrupter), with a functioning earth ground. Test (using test button) every day.

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