The A to Z rules of aquarium safety

A friend of mine forwarded this to me a while ago and for whatever reason it didn’t get posted.  It comes from an old thread on ReefCentral, but it’s well worth re-posting.  I’m going to go out and get some rubber floor mats this weekend.  I’ve gotten shocked enough!

a) Do not submerge a dripping or effluent line
b) Always install a float valve when float switches are involved
c) Do not trust suction cups, look for proper ways to secure whatever is mounted.
d) Use smaller reservoirs for supplements and top off, never connect a top off to a continued water supply (like the RO/DI)
e) Tie / support your CO2 cylinder
f) All electrical connections and wires should be above water level. If under, use water proof NEMA enclosures. Keep all air pumps and ozone systems also above water level.
and use drip loops in the wires.
g) Reduce to a minimum the number of electrical wires submerged and the ones submerged inspect regularly for cracks in the insulation (Powerheads, heaters and such)
h) Whenever possible use low voltage (12 V) devices. Never use 110V on a float switch.
i) Use GFCI for all your aquarium power supply lines
j) Do not use a controller for dosing CO2
k) Do not use a timer to control dosing, get a variable flow doser pump.
l) Do not overdrive any light bulbs
m) Whenever possible use slip glued piping rather than threaded connections or hose inserts
n) Whenever possible use a water on the floor alarm and use a drip or flood pan.
o) Whenever working around the tank use a rubber mat to stand on
p) Insure proper grounding of all your electrical equipment
q) Keep your system and under the stand well ventilated
r) Keep your system and equipment neat and clean, dust off any salt misting around the sump.
s) Frequently inspect for and immediately repair any leaks no matter how small.
t) Frequently clean overflow combs from coralline and algae accumulation
u) Always use syphon break orifices where back syphon is likely
v) Use a small amount of silicone grease to lubricate any O rings used for sealing (Do not use it on bulkhead packings)
w) Do not overtight Kalk or Ca reactor cover flanges. They should leak if over pressure is applied in case a drip line gets clogged. Plan for a doser leaking or shaft slipping if the line gets plugged.
x) When using magnet cleaners place them against the panes away from each other then slide them one toward the other when attaching them.
y) Use reliable vendors and equipment proved safe, research equipment and designs before any purchases or installation. Fully read, understand and follow all instructions and safety recommendations.
z) Read, research and be patient and think clear, never panic.

PS – when you read the title, the Z should be pronounced “Zed”.  ‘Cuz Zed’s dead, baby.