installed a gfi plug
 

after having a powerbar short out and turn many colours of black, from a skimmer collection cup that wasnt tighten all the way, i figured it would be wise to install a gfi plug.
it only took ten minutes but i feel more at ease.
i definitely recommend that you have them installed.

imo

Even a GFI wont allways save you. Make sure you spend the extra money
And get a high quality powerbar. Those crappy $5 ones are fire starters.

What qualaties of an expensive power bar would make a difference in that situation? In the case of aquariums overall?

I can't think of anything.

If you get a work shop grade powerbar Some of the advantages are
Higher guage wire (handles the high amps we use on the reefs better)
Metal construction (plastics flamable)
Built in breaker.

The american DJ power center is becoming a very popular power bar for reefers
http://us.st11.yimg.com/store1.yimg....1882_200414036
8 sockets each with its own switch :biggrin:

where and how much?

I have'nt seen a canadian source, but they go for about $30 US. You can pick them up on e-bay as well.

I use the Chauvet power bars that are similar to the one above. They are available in music stores. I ordered mine online and for the life of me I can't find the name of the company I ordered from. I really like the heavy duty construction and the separate switches for each outlet.

Ha! Found the site I ordered from - it is Axe music
http://www.axemusic.com/product.asp?...4456&PT_ID=all

The switches are fantastic no doubt but realisticly any CSA approved power bar should handle 15 amps (1875 watt) without issue.

I'm thinking this is more of a nice to have.

In theory yes but,
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y38...G_3048edit.jpg

http://workshopwebs.com/pictures/fis...friedplugs.JPG

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/...ire_Resize.jpg

http://members.shaw.ca/canreeftank/pix/kai_3.jpg

This are all power bars that were hooked to aquarium equipment. Some hooked up to GFI's.
Sometimes GFI's dont trip until after the fire has started. At that point if nothing else id rather have a metal powerbar over a plastic one.
The funny thing is the one that looks like it totaly caught on fire is the Coralife power center, Thats actually made for the aquarium.

Overall maybey im a little paranoid but id rather spent $40 and sleep a little better at night.