heat exchanger for chiller

[CoryDude]

Found out today from Current USA that they can't replace my cracked heat exchanger for my chiller. Long story, but it wasn't a warranty issue, just my own clumsiness. I know it wouldn't be a cheap part, but it would be a heck of a lot better than another $900+ for a new 1/3hp unit. Current advised me the only replacement parts they sell for their chillers are cond. fan motors (which I can get locally) and temp control boards for certain models.

Just wondering if this is standard practice w/other chiller manufacturers? Are their any brands out there that are more serviceable than Current? I've already repaired the housing w/epoxy and a strip of plastic to seal the crack. But, I'd like to look at another brand, if I end up having to replace this one.

[CoryDude]

Bueller?......Bueller?......Bueller?

How about some thoughts on different brands. Anyone tried the cool looking Tunze model?

[Bill S]

Normally, I'd recommend Tradewinds. But, after Mike's DISASTEROUS failures, I just can't.

[CoryDude]

Yeah, I was counting my lucky stars after reading of his 2nd failure. That's one setback that would make me think about getting out of the hobby.

I'm really looking at the Tunze chiller. Roger's posts on reefcentral said it just came out a few months ago and is actually a 1/3hp unit, but it's rated like a 1/2hp model. I like Roger's customer service from when I worked w/him at Aquatek in the 90's, and Tunze's an awesome brand. I think I'll give them a shot when the time finally comes around.

[caferacermike]

By not being able to repair or offer a replacement, it just goes to show you that Current does not build their own chillers. They are probably built elsewhere for another purpose and then they add a few pieces to complete the unit. This is so typical of hobby eqpt. If the unit is titanium or 316L stainless, any local machine shop should be able to either repair it or send you to another shop that can. It's an easy bit of tig repair and would probably take less than 20 minutes. I checked on a price for the repair of a crack in a stainless exchanger and was quoted $40 or less.

[CoryDude]

Thanks. I didn't realize that about the equiment industry, but that makes sense as to why they can't supply anything other generic parts that you can get anywhere. Thanks for the info on the repair shops. So far the leak is sealed, but I'll start making calls. Thanks!

[theedprado]

If you have access a surplus condensing unit from AC work you can get a titanium heat exchanger and run it in place of the air handler, you will just need to run a powerful pump to keep it from freezing. This way you can use all standard AC parts.

[CoryDude]

If you have access a surplus condensing unit from AC work you can get a titanium heat exchanger and run it in place of the air handler, you will just need to run a powerful pump to keep it from freezing. This way you can use all standard AC parts.

I've actually thought about doing that when I upgrade to a larger tank so I can have the condensor outside the fish room. For my first chiller, my dad did help me convert a small drink display cooler using that process, but it was too noisy and looked ugly in the room. Good idea, Ed.

[TinyTanker]

i think i have a friend who would let go of his chiller. send me a personal mess, he just got his tank and never lets his ac get over 78 so his tank is good.