Chiller configuration

[swoods140]

I'm configuring a JBJ 1/4 chiller and wondering the best way to cycle it. I'm thinking it's best to let the chiller cycle on it's on and kill the power to the unit if the temp drops below 77. Or is it best to drop the temp on the JBJ and let the apex do the work?

 

[aquamanic]

I would pick the latter simply because the Apex can maintain the temp far more precisely than most chiller thermostats. You'll find you can keep the temp with a few tenths of a degree with the Apex.

 

[camp]

How will it work with the temp controller on the chiller? When the power goes off wont it reset the temp on the chiller? How would the program be on the apex,and what to do to the chiller.

 

[aquamanic]

You set the temp on the chiller for a 1 - 2 degrees higher than what you set the Apex to. The Apex will manage that temp very accurately, turning the chiller on/off as needed. If the Apex ever fails (assuming you have Fallback ON) then your temp will rise that 1 - 2 degrees and the chiller's t-stat will take over, protecting your tank.

So as an example, if I want my tank temp to not go above 79, I would set the Apex to 79 and my chiller to 81. The Apex will cycle the power to it before the chiller tries to turn itself on.

 

[swoods140]

I'm confused...would you not have to set the chiller lower than the apex program. That way when the apex turns on the chiller it will cycle on?

 

[aquamanic]

sorry, you are correct. Set your chiller lower and your heater higher. You get the idea though.

 

[swoods140]

No problem! Thanks again!!

 

[swoods140]

One quick question... I'm assuming the chiller should not be on a relay switch?

 

[aquamanic]

It doesn't really matter. It won't hurt anything if it is. Most chillers when they turn on, there's a delay before the compressor starts. That's the guy that draws all the amps.

 

[swoods140]

so...what would you not want to put on a relay switch? ie. Blueline HD55?

 

[superray2002]

I have mine set on an Ranco controller inline from the EB8 to the chiller so if the APEX has trouble (like a fused-or failed short relay on the outlet) the Ranco will step in and shut down before dropping the temp too far. It power cycles the Ranco controller each time but has been running like that for about 4 years now (had another controller before Apex) without issue.

The advantage is current monitoring of the EB8, graphing how often the chiller is coming on and allowing the APEX to use the seasonal table. My chiller is a Prime/Current USA with no controller built into the unit.

 

[swoods140]

Interesting chiller configuration. I didnt know you could order a chiller without a built in thermostat. I dont think JBJ offers this

 

[Orcrone]

Another thing to consider. I presume your Apex is controlling your heater. If you have your Apex also controlling your chiller then you have one thermostat controlling both. You can't assume the Apex's temperature probe is well calibrated with the chiller's thermostat. If the Apex controls the heater and the chiller's thermostat calls for cooling you could wind up in situation where the Apex's temperature probe is calling for heat while the chiller is trying to cool the water. Best to have one item (Apex temp probe) control both.

BTW, I purchased the 1/4 hp JBJ chiller. Hasn't been used a lot because I got it in the fall, but so far I've been very happy with it. Runs quietly and works well.