When Aquarium Cooling Is Necessary

Even an aquarium stocked with fish from the most tropical areas around the equator will suffer from water that is too hot

. If you have an interest in keeping species of cold water fish, or have problems with excess heat due to local typical temperatures, seasonal hot spells, or equipment that raises the temperature of the water, you need to choose a method of aquarium cooling.

Saltwater aquariums are more likely than freshwater setups to have problems with overheating. The reason for this lies with the real cause of harm to fish from water that is too hot: lack of oxygen. As the temperature of water rises, its capacity for dissolved oxygen decreases. And given the same volume of water, saltwater is incapable of containing as much dissolved oxygen as freshwater. Therefore even basic saltwater aquariums should have a means of aquarium cooling on hand at least in case of an emergency.

Another factor in the levels of dissolved oxygen in a tank is how crowded the space is, and whether the tank holds solely fish or a combination of fish, plants, and invertebrates or living corals. Crowded conditions without plants are susceptible to temperature problems, as are complex saltwater setups. Generally, the recommended temperature for tropical aquariums ranges between 76-83 degrees Fahrenheit. In hot climates or seasons, if air conditioning is not a possibility, an aquarium chiller is a necessity.

The basic methods of aquarium cooling range from temporary fixes in case of emergencies to methods that will cool an aquarium just a few needed degrees. The simplest step is possibly just cooling the room that holds the setup. Covering windows with energy efficient drapes will make a noticeable difference, in addition to the use of air conditioning and fans. Keeping equipment that generates heat as far from the tank as possible is also helpful. To increase evaporation and speed the cooling of water, aim a fan or two to blow across the water's surface.

When more drastic cooling is necessary, or air conditioning is not possible, two varieties of aquarium coolers are available to save your fish. The first is a drop in chiller, which is simple to use as it requires no special plumbing. In-line chillers, the other variety, are more complex; they cool water that is pumped to and from the aquarium. An important note when using either type of chiller is that the heater should still be run alongside chillers. A good heater with a thermostat will keep the chillers from lowering the water temperature too far, but will only run if necessary.

by: Zach Winsett

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