In any aquarium setup, water can sometimes splash or drip around the tank, especially during water changes or filter maintenance. While a little splashing is normal, proper safety precautions are essential when using electrical equipment. One of the most important safety measures is the drip loop.
What Is a Drip Loop?
A drip loop is a simple but vital safety measure: it is a downward loop in the power cord of your aquarium equipment, positioned below the outlet before rising back up to plug in.
How to Create a Drip Loop
Ensure your equipment cord is long enough to allow extra length between the aquarium and the wall socket.
Form a downward loop in the cord so that water dripping along the cord falls to the floor rather than reaching the outlet.
If your cord is too short, use a suitable extension cord to provide enough slack for a proper drip loop.
Why You Need a Drip Loop
A drip loop protects you from electric shock and reduces the risk of fire by preventing moisture from travelling down the cord into the socket. Even with careful handling, a drip loop is a simple, essential precaution for safe aquarium electrics.