chewed wire

[craigie]

My Blagdon pool pump wiring has been bitten probably by a fox. Only the outer black coating has been cut in two small incisions. This occurred while the pump was outside the pond as it was being cleaned. The cuts are within 8 inches of the pump itself. The pump is out with its warranty and I am not certain where it was bought.
I have not been able to locate the manufacturer of the Blagdon range, only suppliers. Is there any way to repair the wiring? This I think is unlikely and potentially dangerous.

Certainly I can visit a garden centre who supply Blagdon and take it from there. Looking for a simple solution that may not be there. Many thanks.

[johnsb00]

Hi craigie
any warranty would be null and void due to the damage, but it is possible to repair the cable with an IP68 type connector.
I would insist that you where both competent and confident in electrical repairs before I would suggest this method, as any mistakes when using this kind of connection could cause serious harm to yourself and your fish.

The safest option would be to replace the pump!

[movedgoalposts]

A replacement cable is easily sourced from many places like Screwfix, Toolstation, etc that do rubber sheathed pond flex. It would be a better option than making a joint in the cable.

But that also depends on whether the pump is serviceable i.e. can you safely release the casing (some times components can retain a charge even if disconnected from mains power so take care), if the casing is opened, would you need to renew any gaskets, o rings or similar to get a waterproof seal once you do it all up again. Is the flex a screw type fixing joint or is it soldered?

As John says, you need to be confident and competent to even attempt this. If the slightest doubt buy a new pump.

[Feline]

If the cable is damaged only 8" from the pump, I would bin the whole thing.
Any connector you used would need to be capable of complete immersion- which is generally not a very good idea at all.
Are you sure it was a fox and not rodents- I've always found it's rats and mice who like chomping on cablage

[huso huso]

i agree with feline although a repair with a waterproof connector is possible unless fitted very correctly can fail with serious consequences .gone are the days of a chocolate block wrapped in insulating tape (thank god ) although I do still see examples of cable connections that literally make your hair curl.i don't believe any of the blagdon range of pumps are designed for cable change .I would advise to buy a new pump .