Aqua Logic drop in chiller Qs

[seedub]

I have an opportunity to pick one of these up pretty cheap. It needs a recharge, but I can handle that. My main concern is that I think this one is meant for a much cooler operating range than I would need it for. On the inside it mentions a range of 32-65 degrees F. I can only imagine that it would still work for a reef application. Or an I totally off base? Any thoughts? It is a 1/3 hp version that looks like this

 

[seedub]

http://www.aquaticeco.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/product.detail/iid/8674/cid/2172
Here is where I found the possible option. I've e-mailed aqualogic, so we'll see.

 

[mcurl98]

yeah, just looked at my aqualogic. It lists three temp ranges. 65-85 is checked on mine. Are you sure it onlly needs a recharge?

 

[seedub]

Nearly positive, I'm A/C certified, so I've dealt with this kind of stuff many times in the past. Any harm in using the lower temp application for a reef?

 

[funman1]

Will work fine if it's on a controller.
Just make sure it turns OFF at the right temp or you will have bigger problems.

uhhh also, most AC units don't "just need a charge"
It's supposed to be sealed, so unless someone let the Rxx out; then it has a leak and will "need a charge again"

Granted the leak may be so tiny that a charge every 5 years may keep it running.

 

[seedub]

Yeah, I'm going to evac it tomorrow or friday and use a sniffer to make sure that everything is kosher. It has been sitting for over a year. I think someone evac'd it before they stored it (why? no clue). It is still holding pressure, so that it always a good thing. And yes, it does has a controller. I figured it would be fine, but I wanted to be sure. Eventually it will be hooked up to a RK2 or ACjr. I'll let y'all know how it goes after I charge it. Thanks!

 

[hawaiianwargod]

I had the 1/4 chiller like that and performed well with no issues.
The one you got is probably not for reef setup but for a lobster tank. I think you could just change the thermostat and you can utilize it for a reef application. If you don't change the thermostat it will pull down the temp all the way to 30 deg F which can surely be detrimental to a tropical reef biotope. hth.

 

[seedub]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9913252#post9913252 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by hawaiianwargod
If you don't change the thermostat it will pull down the temp all the way to 30 deg F which can surely be detrimental to a tropical reef biotope. hth.

But having the chiller on a temp controller would eliminate that risk, correct?

 

[hawaiianwargod]

Yes sir. Does this unit comes with a single/dual controller?

 

[mcurl98]

Seems to make sense to me but I'd call Aqualogic to make sure. They seem like they are willing to help-from site:

As always we have a staff of technicians that are ready to help answer any technical questions you may have.

 

[jedininja]

The aqualogic unit pictured dosent have a built in controller, so you can pick one up and that will eliminate any problems.

 

[seedub]

Yeah, it comes with a controller, the aqualogic flavor. I'll charge it tomorrow and let y'all know how it turns out.

Also, is aqualogic a pretty reputable brand? Couldn't find much feedback.

 

[mcurl98]

I'd say they are the most reputable brand