Temp raising in tank

Pretty new to 3reef but learning every day. Three months into new tank. 55 gallon, reefcleaners base rock, base sand, refugium, reefkeeper controller, swc skimmer not in yet (just cycled shrimp method). Temp has been running 77 degrees with heater and controller. My problem is when I started running the lights (8hrs) my temp rises to approx. 80 degrees. Also I have a closed canopy. I have four 3" fans in the canopy two on each side of canopy, no other openings. Two of the fans push air in, two pull air out. (air moving across the water) I have those also on the controller. I am running two fans constant 24/7. The second set comes on when the lights go on, go off when light go off. I figured I would run the one set for air movement in the hood. Do you think if i ran all four 24/7 this would help the temp. Or should i not run any fans until the lights come on, off when lights go off. Maybe fan over the refugium. Any thoughts

 

whats wrong with 80?

 

Welcome to 3reef BTW!

 

I was thinking that if my lights run longer 10-12 hours that the temp would rise higher. I have been reading optimal temps. around 76-78 or am I wrong. No coral yet but would 80 be ok for reef tank??

 

A temp of 80 for a reef is fine. For peace of mine it will be fine to run fans 24/7

 

I would question what type of fish you will be keeping....

The reason being is that most fish can handle the slight variation from what I understand. My tank goes anywhere between 79 and 81 degrees on any given day depending on if the air is on or the windows are open. I don't see an issue with 80 degrees, but maybe I am missing something...

 

Yes, 80 would be good. You are running a little low. Most keep between 78-81. I run mine at 80 actually. It stays between 79.2 & 80.6.

 

Four retro fit t5's with individual reflectors. If I only turn the fans on when the lights on would that not affect gas exchange. Or open the back of the hood like you say, then run the fans when light come on or temp rises to certain degree???

 

Only have fans turn on when your water hits a certain temp., getting too hot. The Open back canopy would help with gas exchange, allowing your water to stay at optimal temp.

 

I am just worried because right now it doesn't seem like the fans are keeping the temp down. I think if the lights run longer the temp will still rise over 80. I think cutting the back of the canopy out is my option right now. I just would hate to have alot of light coming out of the back of the canopy.