Chiller questions

I am considering getting a chiller for my 54g FOWLR tank but i am reluctant to spend alot of money on the proper size needed for my tank. Here is my question, do you think i can get by and cut corners with a smaller rated chiller, possibly a 24g rated chiller? Or should i spend the right amount and just get the 1/13 Aqua Euro 60g rated chiller?

Let me know what you think i should do... i am only looking to drop 2-4 degrees at the most, i live in california and the summers are a little hot.

 

I would do it right man. Cutting corners hardly ever works in this hobby

 

LrgTime - its a question of economics and life span
an adequate sized chiller for the volume of water or one that is slightly oversized, works less time to maintain the temp and this your running costs are lower

and undersized chiller may achieve your temp requirments but will be on so much time that your electricity costs are increased above the saving you made on the chiller over a period of the chillers life.

in addition because its not running efficiently, its life span will be reduced and the periods between adding the coolant used will be reduced

a correct sized chiller may go 2 years between services/ coolant renewal - even in a very warm climate like I am in

Thats just my opinion

Steve

 

If you only need to drop a couple degrees, try using some cooling fans. They are dirt cheap and work really good. Just watch your salinity though..

 

Steve Wright said it right. Good answer, Steve!

Might also add that a chiller that cycles more frequently (turns on and off) will have a shorter lifespan than a chiller properly sized for your system.