Ranco Temperature Controller Questions

[Scott07]

Ive pretty well made up my mind that now that I'm running a bigger system with a lot more time and capital invested in it, it doesn't make much sense to be trusting all of my livestock to a $20 heater. I am planning on purchasing a Ranco controller, but have a few questions:

-which single stage model do I want? I'm assuming ETC-111000-000, but i'd like to be sure.

-what should I use to waterproof the probe? Just aquarium silicone, or rubber heat shrink tubing?

-Where should I order from? I see them available at many sites, but I don't have experience with any.

-What should I set my heater and controller at? Ive seen several threads where folks recommend setting the heater at maximum, and allowing the controller to shut it on and off. But wouldn't this eliminate the redundancy I'm trying for? For example, wouldn't it make more sense to set the heater at either a degree or two cooler than the controller, or only a degree or two above the controller? What is the best method?

 

[greengeco82]

You have the right model #. That's the one I have. It works great.
I do wish I would have bought the 2 stage version, so I would have the option of a fan turning on when the water temp gets above a set point.
I used clear heat shrink tubing, easily found on ebay, to keep the probe dry.
Dont forget to buy a power strip, or something similar. You will need a power cord, and if running multiple heaters, the "strip" part as well.
As for the setup... I have my heaters set to keep my water at about 80 degrees, and my ranco set to 77 degrees. Just like you mentioned, its a double safe guard, and helps me sleep better.

 

[mcgyvr]

While RANCO has been the go to for a long time there are easier/just as reliable solutions now..
Like the inkbird on Amazon.. Its just plug/play for the most part.. No messing with wires,etc..
https://www.amazon.com/Inkbird-Elec...571232&sr=1-6&keywords=temperature+controller

 

[iced98lx]

I would second McGyvr's statement and have had success with inkbirds, I detailed my install here:

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showpost.php?p=23958399&postcount=569

 

[Scott07]

I would second McGyvr's statement and have had success with inkbirds, I detailed my install here:

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showpost.php?p=23958399&postcount=569

That's awesome guys! Thanks for all the quick responses! Would I need to waterproof the sensor on the inkbird 306T? Or is it ok for saltwater use?

 

[JaySchulz]

Is there any advantage to using the InkBird vs the Ranco?

Any problem using 3 heaters on either one?

 

[laga77]

Is there any advantage to using the InkBird vs the Ranco?

Any problem using 3 heaters on either one?

I 3 Rancos set up on multiple tanks. In the past 5 years, I have had to replace all three. The Inkbirds are cheaper and ready to go out of the box. Multiple heaters are ok as long as you do not exceed the max rating of the Inkbird. 1000 watts IIRC.

 

[mcgyvr]

That's awesome guys! Thanks for all the quick responses! Would I need to waterproof the sensor on the inkbird 306T? Or is it ok for saltwater use?

Probe is fine as is..
No need to waterproof it..

 

[ClownsRCoo]

My ranco is broken at right around the year mark. Temp probe started reading 113* and never cuts heaters on despite tank being 78.

Can't find where I can call ranco directly and website I bought from wont respond. Just want to see if entire controller is jacked or jus my the probe


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