Aussie heated hose adapter ?

SleepyGeorge · Post by **SleepyGeorge** » Fri Jan 20, 2006 9:35 pm

So I have had my electric hose for 2 nights and it is working GREAT. My question is ....

Is the power supply/transformer suppose to get so darn hot?? I know it is just a heating coil in the tube but it seems almost scary hot (adapter not the tube)... I have tried 3 different adapters...

1-12v 1amp----REALLY HOT after 1 hour
2-12v 850mamp----Still pretty hot
3-12v 500mamp----same

Am I doing something wrong here? Should I try a lower voltage??? Am I doing my math right? 12vx1A=12w right? So 12vx500ma should = 6w....It has been a long time since I used Ohms law....I use it at work but rarely...Any ideas anyone or does everyone get a scalding hot adapter..Thanks for any help...

PS- I did send a letter to sleepzone but so far no response so I thought I would try all of you wonderful experts...

capt · Post by **capt** » Fri Jan 20, 2006 10:11 pm

Did you get the Radio Shack Model that Sleepzone recommended? It is rated at 25watts and only has 1000mA of current, so it should not feel hot. These and power supplies for computer accessories get warm, but nowhere near any temperature that I would feel as scalding hot. I have mine hooked up to a power bar and turn it off during the day when it is not in use.

Goofproof · Post by **Goofproof** » Fri Jan 20, 2006 11:02 pm

I don't have one, but if capt says it recommends 25watt and you are using 12 watt even though the hose may use 6 watt. you are loading the transformer to much. Power transformers aren't 100% efficient, far from it.

More power on the input, as long as the voltage is correct will lower the strain on the transformer making it cooler. It will still be above room temperature, but not very hot to the touch. Using too low power of a transformer, can be a fire hazard.

SleepyGeorge · Post by **SleepyGeorge** » Fri Jan 20, 2006 11:13 pm

Ahhh..now that explains things to me. I should have figured that out on my own. Well I feel like a twit but at least I wont catch the house on fire now...Thanks for the insight..Off I go in the morning to get the right one...

Goofproof · Post by **Goofproof** » Fri Jan 20, 2006 11:24 pm

I have never had one burn, they usually open up the circuit, most are UL listed, (that makes them safer) but they are cheaply made.