Chiller below spec

[JT]

Hi, would like to check if anyone knows what will happen if we use an under-rating chiller for a bigger tank, ie Resun CL280 for a 4 feet tank? Will the water still get cooled to the required temp? Will the chiller work like mad? will the electricity bill increase significiantly compared to a CL450 model?

Thanks. Jason Tsee

[BFG]

It will 'work like mad'. What kind of lighting do you have?

[Simon]

like what BFG mentioned, the chiller will probably work overtime to keep the tank cool, resulting in higher maintenance/electricity . So naturally, an above rated chiller will be more suitable in the long run.

[JT]

The lightning comes with the tank - FL type. I mod it to 2 x 55w PL n 2 FLs.
IC....guess need to get the higher rating n not to save now....was checking, thus the post. Thanks...

[SuperET]

i have a CL280. but my tank is 3X1.5X1.5. running at 120W lighting.will it be very stress for the chiller?

[tawauboy]

running an undersized chiller will cause more wear and tear.
the chiller may need to run continously if the heat gain by tank is more that what the chiller can remove.
some ideas which you may like to try out:
a) insulate the back and sides of tank with styrofoam
b) do not set too low temperature
c) have more spacing between light and tank
d) introduce fans to help with cooling

[crusader]

i have a CL280. but my tank is 3X1.5X1.5. running at 120W lighting.will it be very stress for the chiller?

Do you notice how long your chiller needs to cool to your desired temperature?

[SuperET]

i just bought this chiller. but i don't know is it under power. if that's the case, then i pass it to another person who owns a smaller tank.

right now, my tank temperature is 27.5% with 6 small fan.
as i have to top up the water very often, i hope to get a chiller to cool down the water instead of everyday topping up 1.5 litres of water...

[evolim83]

i have a CL280. but my tank is 3X1.5X1.5. running at 120W lighting.will it be very stress for the chiller?

IMO, CL280 for 180L of water should be fine!
Maybe you can keep a fan or two to help bring down temp too!
Then you can save the troubles of having to upgrade your chiller!