using transformer to power pump?
I'm trying to avoid the hassle of running 110v to a small water
feature. There's no easy, nearby electrical access, so I'm afraid an electrician would cost some $$. Has anyone tried using a transformer to convert to 12vac at an outdoor outlet, run low voltage cable to the water feature, then used another transformer to step it back up to 120vac at the pump? Can you just buy two transformers and use one as a stepdown, and another as a stepup? The pump is pretty small, so not a lot of power is needed. |
using transformer to power pump?
"mikel" wrote in message om... I'm trying to avoid the hassle of running 110v to a small water feature. There's no easy, nearby electrical access, so I'm afraid an electrician would cost some $$. Has anyone tried using a transformer to convert to 12vac at an outdoor outlet, run low voltage cable to the water feature, then used another transformer to step it back up to 120vac at the pump? Can you just buy two transformers and use one as a stepdown, and another as a stepup? The pump is pretty small, so not a lot of power is needed. Actually, installing a set up like that correctly, safely, and "legally" would be more hassle than what it's worth. OTOH, installing a 120 volt extension from that outdoor outlet to the water feature isn't beyond the capabilities of most homeowners. I'm sure many people in this NG have done same. As an electrician, I'll be glad to tell you how to do it safely........or post to alt.home.repair Also, if you aren't comfortable doing the electrical work, you can at least install the electric cable, then call the electrician for the hookup. Here's a web site ran by an electrical inspector (his advice is very good and detailed). http://www.homewiringandmore.com/hom...ons/index.html Scroll down and click on "self help forums" |
using transformer to power pump?
"mikel" wrote in message
om... I'm trying to avoid the hassle of running 110v to a small water feature. There's no easy, nearby electrical access, so I'm afraid an electrician would cost some $$. Has anyone tried using a transformer to convert to 12vac at an outdoor outlet, run low voltage cable to the water feature, then used another transformer to step it back up to 120vac at the pump? Can you just buy two transformers and use one as a stepdown, and another as a stepup? The pump is pretty small, so not a lot of power is needed. Transformers in general, and especially consumer grade transformers are horribly inefficient, most of the electricity used in your proposed setup, will be consumed as heat. Ever put your hand on a transformer and felt how warm it gets? To power a 3 amp pump motor at 120v a/c, you need 30 amps at 12v, which means an 8 gauge wire. You can save some money, by doing the basic, but labor intensive work yourself. Dig a trench about 18" deep, lay conduit, send the wire through it, hook up the gfi plugs. Then call an electrician and have 'em plug it into the breaker or tap off another outlet. Sameer |
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