My bowl arrived with no instructions or info - can I leave it plugged in 24/7 ? outside with no protection from the elements ? thanks in advance
571014
Mine is plugged in 24 - 7, but as far as leaving it plugged outside with no protection from the elements I probably wouldn't do that. I have mine inside a pole barn and I don't remember getting any paper work either. You'll want to check the water level daily, cause the water level seems to evaporate.
1464507
When I used to have it (upgraded to a large tank so I don't have it anymore), it didn't get the bowl warm at all, just the water inside the bowl.Also I'm pretty sure the instructions said it must be fully submerged in water for use.If you want the one outside try checking out the reptile heating pads, those can be on outside.
1270271
I'd not assume it's safe to leave it plugged in unless you see a statement saying that it is. In fact many manuals will say "Don't charge for more than 24 hours" or "Don't overcharge" showing that you shouldn't leave it on. If your thinking of that so it has a routine "fresh charge" that you don't need to think about doing regularly I'd get a timer that turns it on for just 15 minutes a day and/or a regulated power supply (like the Schumacher PC-6 or Coleman powerchill cooler AC supply) that won't "overcharge" it.
175285
I leave mine outside all year round. I plug it in as soon as there is a nip in the air but as others have said it does not "heat" the water, it just keeps it from freezing. Our temps this winter have been well below zero and I noticed some ice on the water but usually it is OK. It is exposed to all types of weather elements from heat to rain to snow and there is no trouble. Racoons, possums, birds, and cats have all come to get a drink from the bowl all year. You do have to monitor the water level.
602704
I think if I wanted to use it outdoors (provided you have an electrical outlet) I would contact the manufacturer, or I would find the instructions from the manufacturer about outdoor use. I have only used it indoors.
478365
The bowl is made in China. Save your money. The product does not meet it's marketing claims. My big struggle now is where I would safely dispose of it without causing damage to our environment!!!!!!
1597924
Also consider your outlet if you plan to leave it plugged in during rain. A lot outdoor outlets have a spring loaded cover that only seals it from water when it's not in use. If you want to leave it plugged in, you need a in-use outdoor outlet cover that's a plastic or metal dome and the power cord feeds in from the bottom. You can pick them up at any home store.
163790
Just make sure your power is off. Should have no problem. BUT, first try the potato trick. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0QjfD0LVH8 It might save you a few dollars if you think you only will use it once. On outside fixtures, ALWAYS grease the socket with base grease or a dielectric spray. Multi state Lighting Maintenance company owner. 25+ years in trade
962364
We have outside places to plug in the heated cat house. They have a braker on them should something happen.. You need to be careful of weather or water with electricity.
65984
Hi, Although I have thought about plugging mine into an extension cord an d leaving it on I have not tried it yet. If I leave it charge for 24 hours mine usually lasts almost a week. The feeder went down in price since December so I bought another one so I always have one handy for those pesky squirrels I am trying to catch a possum on it at night. Sorry I could not be of more help. I am so disapointed to hear all the negative reviews. I love my feeder, the squirrels get right off using the remote from inside my house (about 40-50 feet away. The birds (all kinds of birds fight over the feeders! I am so pleased with this product!! Jo Ventura
1345942
I put mine in a ceramic bowl, then microwaved for a few seconds to fit the new bowl. ( so water wouldn't get trapped below it )
1198117
Thanks for the reply. I won't worry about leaving mine plugged in when I'm out during the day. It takes very little time to charge so I've always hesitated to plug it in and then leave the house. Like you, I don't have to shave 24/7.Thanks again.
313223
I need a new bowl and a new screen cover. I learned the hard way that you can't leave those out in the weather.
69629
keep the power inserter indoors out of the rain. (It will be plugged into a 110 plug) Make sure you ground it and also ground your dish.
1956307
First check the electrical outlet with a light or a tester and see if you have power there . Did you have some water in the bowl ? There is thermostatic stop if there is no water so the plastic does not melt . It's only a 60 watt element to keep the water warm . If you have a problem let me know .
1598269
I leave it on. It would take a while to heat up and that defeats the purpose of having a warm "seat" in the winter. I unplug as soon as the outside temperature gets warm enough and leave it unplugged until it gets cold again. I have had no issues with it since it is plugged into an outlet with its own reset-type fuse. I hope this helps.
1407950
Gizell,No. Keep at least two and half feet of cord outside to enable handling and emptying the bowl for cleaning. After emptying bowl (into a waste bowl), wipe clean with disposible paper towel and refill with clean water. It's very simple. Steve