what size chiller?

[jmcleod]

Hey gang,
My tank is difficult to get under 80*. I am thinking of adding a chiller to the system. What size is needed to drop the temp down a few degrees and maintain it there? Tanks specs are listed below.

Regards,

Jon

 

[slipknottin]

How high does the temp get? Many of us maintain our tank at a constant 82. If the tank temps exceed that, Id play with a couple fans blowing on the water or through the hood.

 

[matter1331]

82 seems a little high, doesn't it? I keep mine around 78 and I've heard 82 is almost too high

 

[slipknottin]

Generally not, 82 is fine, its actually closer to the average temp on reefs throughout the world. I know of a few who keep tanks at 84 though I dont think there is any long term information on maintaing tanks at such high temps.

 

[ca1ore]

Chillers are sized based on gallons and temperature drop. My sense is that for a tank your size and the need to only drop 4 degrees, a small 1/5 hp unit will do the trick.

Do try fan first, however, as they are much cheaper.

Simon

 

[acefred]

I dive and most of the reefs I've been on have a temp of 80 - 84 so that too me would be ok for fish..........

Here is a nice site to calculate heater or chiller needs based on tank volume..........

http://boonedocks.net/fishtank/ftweb.php

 

[jmcleod]

Thanks for the help!

I'll do more research and try more airflow. The last week the temp has stayed at 80 so I am not as concerned...

I also dive and my expeience with reefs is the same - 80-84/5

Thanks again

Jon