Can I connect a 2 core water feature pump with a 3 core supply? Ask questions and find answers to many subjects relating to electrics and electrical work

[arc1886]

I bought a new pump for my water feature when the original stopped working. The new pump had a 3 pin plug, but the original one had a long cable which was connected through the wall into our utility. The cable is buried under grass and concrete on the way to the water feature.
I took the 3 pin plug off the pump and cut the supply cable next to the water feature. The intention was to connect using a waterproof connector.
Problem - supply is 3 core, pump is 2 core.
Can I connect them?

[Mr White]

So long as, you do as you said and use a waterproof connector then yes you can, BUT do not cut the earth wire off, tempting as it may be, tie or clip it out of the way, so that way when ever you need it, (Different, bigger pump?) The earth wire will be there.

[arc1886]

Thanks for the reply.
I have two waterproof connectors, a 3 core link and a 2 core link.
Should I use the 3 core link and just leave the pump side empty.
Or use the 2 core link and block off the earth wire before the connector?

[Mr White]

It is your choice, which do you think would be best.