Chiller recommendation

[KDodds]

Looking for some input...

Tank is an Oceanic Stretch Hex, something like 46g. I'm looking to pull down from a base temp of 72ºF, ambient room temp of 72ºF, to a stable tank temp of 65ºF. Any specific recommendations or experiences on brands/models would be appreciated. We're leaning towards the 1/15hp Prime from Current. Any experiences with this chiller? Noise level? Or, possibly the JBJ Arctica Mini, also 1/15hp. Any experience with this one? Noise level? Any other brand/model recommendations?

Of the chillers I've used in the past, I'm most happy with the PCI 1hp I'm currently running on my 450. I would absolutely NOT purchase an AquaMedic again (loud, inconsistent performance, failed after less than a year). I didn't have great experience with the Aqualogic either (erosion, multi-hundred dollar repair after only 2 years of use).

TIA for any input.

 

[saltyreefguy]

for a 46g. at least 1/5hp, just a little extra pull down power for those extra hot days.... a 1 15/hp thats pretty small almost for a small nano tank, you're going to be working that chiller overtime, and it going be just cycling all day on and off. just to give what every it got.. hope that helps..

also the only brand i have every bought is american made, like
aqualogic, aquanectics, umi, csl, west coast. they all use the best compressor tecumseh...

 

[KDodds]

There are no "hot days", really. The room is climate controlled and never rises above 72ºF. 1/5hp seems a bit overkill for an in-line on such a small tank. My initial impression, tho, was yeah, a little bigger than 1/15hp, more like 1/10hp. But, like I said, it's not a huge pull-down, just 7ºF, 6ºF, really to 66ºF. I'm so used to larger tanks, tho, I dunno.

 

[DarG]

You are getting down to the bottom end of the temp. range that a standard chiller is designed to cool to. 60 - 80 degress F.
That 1/15th isn't for much more than nano's despite what they may claim. You may get away with a good 1/10 th hp but I wouldnt cut corners on quality. Not sure if Aqua Logic makes a 1/10 or Tradewinds but those two brands would be two of a few that I would consider for what you are wanting to do.

 

[DarG]

Surprised you had issues with Aqua Logic. Well, everyone makes a lemon I guess.

Check tradewinds. Of course, universal marine would get it done for sure :rollface:

 

[aquaconnect]

One word, Teco!

 

[saj01c]

Any one have experience with Teco?

 

[aquaconnect]

I do, I have a 1/3 horsepower on my 180 and love it. It's by far the quietest chiller I've ever seen. Works good, dependable. I like it.

 

[dolfandds]

I too have their 1/3 hp teco on a 200 gal in south florida..works quietly and effortlessly.highly recommend

 

[saj01c]

That is great to hear. I just got a 1/3 hp teco.
I just sold my tradewind 1/3 drop in chiller. My tank sits just a few feet from my bedroom and the wife was not happy with the noise. It worked fine though.

 

[KDodds]

Any links to smaller Tecos? Do they even make 1/6hp and smaller?

 

[dolfandds]

Teco is a sponsor on reef central, i believe they only make 3 models. My 1/3 hp is the best of 4 chillers I have used over the years.

 

[fewells]

Call them and mention RC and get a 15% discount.

 

[KDodds]

Too big for me, it's only a 40g, base temp 72ºF, in a 72ºF room.