Drop in vs in line chiller

[vwelter]

I am setting up a new 100 gallon reef system. So far with running my 400wMH/actinic lights, my tank get up to about 81 degrees. It would be much easier for me to add a drop-in chiller to my system...does anyone think that I should get an in-line instead? If so, why?

Thanks

 

[Anonymous]

81 degrees? You don't need a chiller.

 

[vwelter]

Ithought ldeal temp was 75

 

[Anonymous]

Nope - that temp is actually pretty rare on reefs. Mean temp on the reef is 84 degrees, ideal temp range is 80-85 degrees.

Read this article: Natural Reef Salinities and Temperatures

 

[M.E.Milz]

I agree - my tank usually stays between 82-84. I did, however, buy a chiller as a back-up just to make sure the temp doesn't creep up above 85.

 

[dvb]

I have a 55 tall and wanted to get a chiller. I did quite a bit of research and chose a 1/4 hp Custom Sea Life in line unit. I thought that the drop in was much easier but there are a few draw backs. The drop in probe has a pretty short cord. I think they are only a couple of feet long. If you want to put the chiller out of the way, for noise reasons like I did, it is difficult. I drilled two holes in the exterior wall of my house and plumbed it right outside. I can barely hear it now. My tank is in my living room btw.

I also was told and read that the drop in don't remove heat as well and are therfore less efficient. So the power bill is a little higher. Probably a couple of bucks a month. Probably not a big deal.

I love my chiller overall. My temperature stays nice and constant at 79. The variation is only 1 degree, even on the hottest days. The bay area doesn't get too hot too often though.

Good luck!

 

[vwelter]

Thanks