Proper equipment sizing

[Mark M]

I have an Aqueon 46 gal. bow front tank with a bio ball sump. I am running a
•SEIO M820 Super Flow Circulating Pump (820GPH/3200LPH)
•Supreme Classic General Purpose Utility Pump, for the sump
•ESHOPPS Nano Skimmer
•Fluval Sea Full Spectrum light
•Aqueon 200 watt Submersible Heater (Which is currently not in the tank)
•Bio ball environment
The problem is although we keep our home at 75 degrees, the tank runs 4-6 degrees warmer and appears to be stressing our fish. All of the water tests show little or no problems. We are looking for a suitable and economical means to lower the temperature while we are working. Any suggestions are greatly appreciated

 

[silverado61]

Does your tank face a window or get direct sunlight? Even with the air on the UV rays from the sun can heat up a tanks water. As long as it doesn't go above 80 deg and stays within a couple deg it shouldn't cause the fish any stress. As long as the temp doesn't fluxuate too much. That would cause stress.

What are the numbers on your test readings? There might be something else wrong.

 

[Mark M]

Tank is away from direct sunlight all the time. Fluctuation of temperature is minimal 79-81 degrees. Concern is over the high limit. Test readings are pH - 8.1, KH - 1.4, Nitrite - 0, Nitrate - <10, Ammonia - 0, so I don't have grave concerns chemically. This is a fairly new tank set-up and my concern is that the equipment may be producing to much added heat to the water. Looking for better control. My previous tank was a typical 55g and I did not experience this problem.

 

[2quills]

Generally your fish can adapt just fine to the higher temps as long as they are consistent and can avoid large fluctuations.

That being said its always best to research your specific species and where they come from to try and match their natural environment.

Fish down here in the Gulf, seem just fine in our waters that see temps in the 80's all summer long. And I've met hobbyists who've maintained tanks at those temps without much issue.

That being said, if you do want to lower temps a bit one of the best things you can do is replace that Supreme Classic pump. They add quite a bit of heat.

 

[Mark M]

Thanks for your input. Still monitoring the temps and the fish seem agreeable at 79. Have done a lot of reading on others that would accommodate to these warmer temperatures. Thinking about Blue Reef Chromis as a final addition to add a little diversity to the color. Currently have one each, Coral Beauty, Picasso Clown, Ruby Hawkfish, and Harbor Gobi. Any suggestions or comments appreciated.

 

[geridoc]

Sounds like a great fish collection, and 3 reef chromis would be the icing on the cake.

 

[Mark M]

Greatly appreciate the input. My daughter loves to watch and feed them each night. Her favorite color is blue, so the Blue Reef Chromis will really make her happy.