I need a chiller!

[reeferRob]

I have a 180 with the current sump my total volume would be around 200-210g, I'm getting ready to replace he sump bringing my total volume to around 250g. I really don't like to run my AC until it gets hot enough I can't take it anymore (around 80 deg). However I checked my tank temp yesterday and found it to be 86.7 :o . I immediately put a couple fans on top of the tank closed all doors and windows and cranked on the AC. I got it down to 82 but it was so nice today my wife wanted the windows open so the AC went off.

I need a chiller but what size and type are best? I know very little about them and don't wanna buy it twice. It seems like the drop in probe type would be easiest? I dunno?

Anyone got one laying around that would fit my needs?

Thanks


Rob

[Bill S]

Rob,

I just went thru the same process - and I was JUST about to buy a chiller, when I started looking at alternative lighting. Anyway, feel free to call me, I've been down the whole research thing recently. I'd go with a 1/3-1/2 hp unit - many will recommend you oversize, but you are only trying to take yours down 6 degrees or so. I had pretty much decided on a 1/3 hp Tradewind. Unless it's just a heck of a deal, used - without warranty - are quite a risk.

[brewercm]

Agree with Bill, 1/3 to 1/2 should be fine for your needs. Of course a 1/3 rated from one company may work as well as a 1/2 from another. Definately get with him since he has done some extensive research latley.

[Bill S]

What I liked about Tradewind is that they don't run them hard - they are underspec'd/over built. That's why they have such a great warranty - you can get a 5 year warranty from them.

[reeferRob]

Agree with Bill, 1/3 to 1/2 should be fine for your needs. Of course a 1/3 rated from one company may work as well as a 1/2 from another. Definately get with him since he has done some extensive research latley.

I'm on it, waitin on his ph# or call! yeah i was looking at a drop in 1/3hp from Dr Fosters on sale like $650 but i don't wanna buy what isn't gonna do the job. I run AC most of the summer and never had a problem last summer and really shouldn't need a WHOLE lot of chillin, but i have more sps now and with the milder temps the wife like to air the place out. Hopefully i can make a decision after talkin to Bill and get this thing on the way.


Thanks Guys!!

Rob

[J_G]

My recommendation would be the 1/3 hp Aqualogic Delta Star. This is the one im running and love it.

John

[Texreefer]

I have the same one as JG and love mine as well

[sharkboy]

I run a 1/2 hp aqua chill made by coralife....very pleased :)

[reeferRob]

What I liked about Tradewind is that they don't run them hard - they are underspec'd/over built. That's why they have such a great warranty - you can get a 5 year warranty from them.

It was good talkin to ya Bill, and thanks a bunch for the info! Based on that I ended up ordering the 1/3 hp Tradewind. Thanks to all who responded, hopefully I will be as pleased with my chiller as ya'll are with yours!

Thanks!


Rob