LF Inexpencive temp controller........ - Page 2

The Grizz · #1 07-05-2010, 12:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Myka

Ok. What are you thinking the temperature controller will do? All a temperature controller does is control when the heater comes on and when the fans/chiller come on by sensing the temperature. If you don't have a heater to run anyway, then buying a temperature controller seems like quite a waste. I think you will find that if you simply hook up some fans to a temperature controller that the fans will be on constantly when the lights are on anyway.

I have multiple timers as well - the lights that stay on the longest are 2 T5s that run for 12 hours a day. The timer that runs those lights has two 3-prong outlets, one for the fan, one for the lights. It's a lot cheaper than a temperature controller which you really don't need - especially if you're trying to save your Pesos.

I know you're not keen on a chiller, and I don't blame you. Your tank stays nice and cool, but holy mackerel the chiller puts off a tonne of heat into the room.

Another thought which may work for you would be to install a small in-window air conditioner for your fish room. You can find these small units for around $100. Then you don't have to sweat your balls off while you enjoy watching your tank.

My tank only hit above 82 on hot days. Case in point, today is cool and overcast here with a little rain and my tank with all the light's on has not gone above 80.5. If I was to run a fan when the light's came on on days like today it would drop the temp to low. With a controller that can run a heater and a fan I can program it to turn on fan when above 80 and a heater when below 78. That way I can maintain a steady temp with only a couple degree fluxuation .

intarsiabox · #2 07-05-2010, 12:38 AM

If you had a heater in the tank the temp would never drop below the set point even on cool cloudy days and you could still do what Myka suggests if you want to.

The Grizz · #3 07-05-2010, 12:42 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by intarsiabox

If you had a heater in the tank the temp would never drop below the set point even on cool cloudy days and you could still do what Myka suggests if you want to.

I do have a heater in the sump (200W) but every single heater I have, about 10 different one's, will not stay at a steady temp. For some reason they all seem to creep up and have to be adjusted daily. If I had a controller it would be a hands free way to maintain temp.