Pond Electrical. How to choose pond electrical items.

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This information sheet has been designed to help you make an informed choice.

How to choose Pond Electrical Items.
The majority of ponds constructed today are not just a static body of water with a few fish and plants. As the garden pond and water features generally have become more and more popular, people’s expectations have been raised equally and consequently decorative enhancements like lighting and environment maintenance equipment, such as filters with Ultra Violet Sterilisers are now the norm rather than the exception. Nearly every pond has a pump even if it is just to produce a small fountain spray. Most pond equipment is mains power operated, that is to say a power source of 220-240 volts (UK) is required. Because of this it is vitally important that the proper equipment is used and installed correctly otherwise a risk of injury or death exists. See also the note at the end of this information page that refers to new legislation regarding electrical installations that came into effect January 2005 (UK). There is some low voltage equipment, primarily lighting gear and some pond pumps available but most pond pumps and other equipment are mains powered.

Key Electrical Items.

Switchbox.
A Switchbox is wired to the end of a mains cable and allows the operation of between two and six items. Each item has its own toggle switch on the outside of the box enabling operation of only one or any number of the items connected to the box. They are rated for outside use but must never be immersed in the pond. Always choose a box that is to British Standards and CE rated. Using a Switchbox means that only one cable is required to run through the garden. These Switchboxes are very small and can easily be concealed. They can be fixed to a wall or a sturdy post. Always position the boxes with cable entry glands facing downwards and never place flat on the ground.

In-line Cable Connector.
Allows the safe joining of electric mains power cable and are weatherproof but most types cannot be immersed. One or two companies do produce a version that is especially for joining cable under water but if this is the aim make absolutely sure you choose the correct product for the job otherwise an extreme danger exists. In-line cable connectors should be considered a permanent connection as continuous splitting and re-connecting can damage the sealing rings and grommets allowing water ingress. It is recommended that once assembled the connectors be sealed with silicone glue at the point where the cable enters and exits. These connectors are not suitable for the joining of armored cable.

Weatherproof Plug & Socket.
These are very similar to In-line Cable Connectors except that one half has three pins and the other has three corresponding holes. The two halves are pushed together so that the pins locate in the holes and a locking collar tightens to affect a seal. As one half is connected to the mains cable and the other to the appliance, by reversing the locking procedure the two halves can be separated enabling removal of the appliance. A cap, attached to the cable half of the connector can then be pushed over it to make the cable safe. The price difference between these and the basic in-line version is not significant and the plug and socket has, therefore, to be recommended above the two. These connectors are not suitable for the joining of armored cable.

Armadillo Cable Systems.
Armadillo Cable Systems are a modular system with connectors, switchboxes and armored cable allowing the safe installation of an electrical supply to the garden. Virtually any cable run length and any number of appliances can be serviced by this flexible system.

Never compromise with electricity in the garden, do not take short cuts and always observe all relevant legislation, failure to do so may put your life and others at risk.

IMPORTANT.

Please note all electrical work on “Garden lighting and power installations” must comply with Part P of the Building Regulations. Failure to comply is a criminal offence. If a competent electrician who is registered under a Part P self-certification scheme does not carry out the installation of a product that is covered by this legislation then you must notify the local Building Control Department before work begins. For further information and guidance on this matter and other electrical installations in and around your home that might be covered by the relevant legislation, contact your local authority’s Building Control Department.