[reefburnaby]

Hi,

I don't know if anybody else is using these, but I use the Hagen Tronic heaters. They don't use relays to turn on and off the heaters. Relays are mechanical power switches that can be controlled electrically. Solid state (i.e. 100% electronic) power switches are used in the Tronic. Since solid state has no moving parts, it is less likely to fail.

As a precaution, I keep the plastic temperature dial / cap above water. Plastic tends to shrink and crack when it is submersed in water for an extended amount of time. Most submersible heaters can withstand this, but I do this as a precaution.

I have also found that crummy electrical outlets/power bars can be devastiting for a life support system/reef. Salt water vapour can corrode the contacts on the AC plug and outlets. Over time, the corrosion can prevent the heater from receiving power. So, quality AC outlets should be used. Hospital grade AC outlets are the best. They provide a good electrical contact and they are designed for the life support systems for hospitals.

Also, I have more than one heater in the tank. It is design to prevent the tank from getting too hot or too cold if one of the heaters fails (stuck on or stuck off).

One_Divided,

So, did the heater fail or was it the outlet. When I first started reefkeeping, my heaters would keep turn on and off. The problem was a crummy power bar.

Hope that helps.

- Victor.

[ 29 January 2002: Message edited by: reefburnaby ]</p>