Other Turtle Discussion :: Biting filter cord

[Ashley]

Bowser has been biting her submersible filter's cord that's in the water.
She never did this before, but is in a new tank so of course she's curious.

Is it possible that she could bite through the cord and damage it?

[steve]

It could pose a problem if Bowser won't stop. The heater, filter and lights should also be plugged into a GFCI outlet (the kind in kitchens and bathrooms) if possible.
[*EDITED]

[Ashley]

Since the filter is at the very bottom the cord has to be in the water.
She only bit it once or twice out of curiousity...that filter was in her old tank and she left it alone before.
We have everything plugged into a surge protector if that helps anything.

[steve]

A surge protector won't be as effective as a GFCI.

[*EDITED]

[Ashley]

No heater...here in Texas it's nice and warm so her water stays between 75 and 80F....though we may need one in the wintertime.
She hasn't messed with the filter cord since, but I'm still keeping a close eye on her.

I wish I could plug things into a GCFI, but both bathrooms and the kitchen are pretty far from the tank's location.

[marisa]

You could have the outlet that you're using for the turtles converted to a GFCI. I've done this with a few outlets, but in my case it required an electrician, which meant more $. However, you also can buy portable ones that plug into outlets (and then the equipment is plugged into them). I bought mine at Lowes (I think) but Home Depot and equivalent stores should also have them.

[steve]

Sorry, I'm not sure why I kept thinking it was the heater cord... major brain cramp.

You should have the plugs laid out in a drip loop, that would also prevent water from getting in with certain situations.