Metal halide tank question...

[bjftanker]

I am about to purchase a dual metal halide 250watt set up for my tank. I do know that these bulbs do run hot. I want to make sure the Temerature in the tank does not get to hot for my coral and other fragile things. So my question is would an aquarium chiller be a bad investment if i can get one for a good price? What do you guys think. Any of you guys run a chiller on your tank?

 

[Navarre]

You didnt mention the size of tank you have and this of course does play a factor on the temperature of the tank when used alongside halides.
The Position of the tank is also a big factor.

Mine is next to a window and i have a 400w over mine. in the summer i had terrible trouble keeping the tank stable.

Does your tank have temperature problems at the moment ? If the answer is yes then get a chiller for sure!

To be hoenst, if you can get a chiller at a good price then get it! they are wonderful bits of kit and will keep your tank at a very stabel temperature... Remember, its not the temperature that is the problem its the stability thats the secret (as with anyth9ing in the marine game)

 

[Great Lakes]

You could also look at getting a larger tank. But then I am always looking for an excuse...

GL

 

[bjftanker]

ive been watching my tank here lately and it fluctuates anywhere from 76 to 82 farenheight. I am just worried about keeping it stable for coral ..

 

[Navarre]

if the temperature fluctuates this much then i would invest in a chiller (if i could afford one ) )

 

[ostrow]

Have you tried cooling fans?

It would really help though to know the size of your tank and what other equipment you have. I got my Turboflotor out of there, which got a large pump out of the sump, and all of a sudden the temp no longer fluctuates. Net cost of $100 for the skimmer upgrade compared to several hundred for a chiller, and I am saving money with one less pump (switched to Euro-Reef).

Tank size and equipment would help.