Need controller for PCI CL 650 Chiller. Recommendations?

[Michaelinpr]

On my Pacific Coast Imports CL650 Chiller I am getting an E 1 error. Temp sensor error. Not the first time. Fixed it a couple times but I am done with it. Chiller works great but the electronics are garbage.

Can you guys recommend an external controller? I see a few out there but have no idea.

 

[username in use]

If all you want is a temp controller you could get a Ranco or a reefkeeper lite.

 

[Michaelinpr]

Thanks. I will check those out. Anyone else?

Just need a unit that I can plug in the chiller, place temp probe somewhere and set temp. Obviously after I wire the chiller to bypass the controler it has.

 

[Michaelinpr]

Ranco is the simple cheap option but the reefkeeper lite looks nice. More option if I want later. But I cant really think of what I would need later.

The reefkeeper doesn't make much mention of conecting a chiller. Even in the manual it isnt in their diagram. They only mention chiller once but more about possible interference.

Can someone confirm using the Reefkeeper lite for a chiller.

 

[Mark9]

I have the Elite, cannot confirm the Lite.
But if you want to control a high current device like a chiller with a reefkeeper, i'd suggest you addon a PC1.

PC1

 

[Michaelinpr]

Well I went with the Ranco controller. Seems simple enough and lots of info on Youtube how to wire it. Turns out a friend is using one with his CL650 for years. Not as fancy but it should do the job.

Thanks guys. Hoping it gets here soon. My tank isnt freaking out yet but temps are a little higher than I run with the chiller.

 

[Michaelinpr]

I am still stuck on this. I now have the Ranco Controller but cannot find any info on how to wire the chiller. I need to bypass the stock controller and wire the chiller to be on so the Ranco can control it.

How do I do this?