Will I need a chiller?

[nordy]

After installing my new lights (324W rated lamps T5 HO), and considering my need to take better care of my 55 gal tank, I would like to hear what others with 55gal reef tanks have had to do to keep temps down. I usually keep my A/C unit (1 ton window unit) on during the day, but not full blast, during hot weather. It seems to make sense to invest in a decent chiller instead of possibly having to keep the whole downstairs cool just for the fish tank. I know the chiller will also heat up the ******** somewhat when it's running.
Temps are staying right around 80-81 now when the house averages about 65 but it might be a different story when house temps average 75 or more during the summer and I want to be ahead of the curve if needed.
Thanks for the advice!

 

[t316]

For starters, point a fan directly on top of the water. This should bring it down a degree or two. If you have any tops on the tank, take them off so that you can increase evaporation, and the fan can cool the water down.

 

[nordy]

I took the tops off of the tank awhile ago for this reason. I will closely monitor temps as the season changes and get a chiller if needed but want to know what others do with similar sized tanks.

 

[t316]

Originally Posted by Nordy
http:///forum/post/2513291
I took the tops off of the tank awhile ago for this reason. I will closely monitor temps as the season changes and get a chiller if needed but want to know what others do with similar sized tanks.
Everybody with similar size tanks are doing the same thing. There's not much wiggle room here. It's either a chiller, or with your size tank, you should be able to bring it down with a fan blowing directly on the water.

 

[acrylic51]

Before investing in a chiller I would opt putting a fan or couple computer fans over your sump.....Do you have a canopy on top of the tank as well?

 

[nordy]

Nope, no canopy, just the Nova extreme pro light so ther'splenty of room for circulation on the top of the water.