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New sinking type tank heater/de-icer. Aluminum disk sits on bottom. Connected with a heavy duty extension cord to GFI outlet, end connection to de-icer cord is laying on ground in a low-ish spot probably wet ground but not standing water. GFI hasn't tripped.
Inexperienced but wants to do the right thing barn owner sees some horses drinking, so assumes all will. However, the sensitive horses are clearly sensing something - they snort and blow and dance back. Have seen this other places and been told it was stray voltage. Brought out a volt tester (beeps near voltage but doesn't measure) and get mild reaction if I hold down near water surface. This is a fairly sensitive meter but should not be reading anything I would think.
If I hold the de-icer out of water the horses are less suspicious but still won't drink. One did take a sip then decided he wouldn't drink more but was calm about it not snorty like when it's in the water.
If I buy a new sinking de-icer is this likely to fix the problem? Not sure if the current one is new or older. We had a different type last year (with the frame that holds it off bottom). Not sure if type makes a difference? I believe this one is supposed to be more energy efficient than the other one. The water seems colder than the other one did.
Is the cord being on ground an issue? It's not quite long enough to tie up on fence. Last year this wasn't a problem but owner has some physical issues this year and just did it in a rush. If I am tactful she will be open to help as long as I do it myself.
Just trying to get them some water before someone colics. This just went in and some have been drinking from puddles but clearly is not workable longer term...
![Sad :(](./images/smilies/icon_e_sad.gif)