Yes I am running my pump externally. I know...the temp seems so high! I think I can only blame it on the return pump though. I keep the temp of the house around 76-77. So, right now, between my return pump, a sedra 5000(skimmer pump), and three koralia 4's, the temp is rising about 7 degrees. I don't have fans going right now...but I know when I add the lights the temp is going to rise another few degrees and the fans will help combat that.

Do you think the eheim will work for my tank? I'd like to try it out to see if it helps...but want to make sure that it can serve well permanently.

I have read negative reviews about this pump regarding heat transfer...it is dead quiet though. Once I replace it, I'll put it up for sale...someone with adequate cooling will love it.

Also, FWIW, I did check the thermometer and it is working fine. When pulled out of the water it reads 76-77 degrees.