Jbj artica 1/4hp chiller?

muggle0981 · Jan 23, 2021

So after 15 yrs my ecoplus chiller needs replacement

im with a new lfs-they recomend jbj 1/4 hp artica chiller

my tank is running 80 degrees in winter-would like it at 78 degrees

with going to a 180g will it take more to raise the tank water or when i install new aquarium just set up a chiller

i know-no realy way to answer, and im not setting uo new tank but would rather be one and done for all set up

Ron Reefman · Jan 25, 2021

A 180 will likely need a bigger chiller, especially if you have a sump and/or a refugium as well.

IMHO the JBJ chiller is a good unit.

ca1ore · Jan 25, 2021

Chiller isn’t sized based just on volume, it’s also a function of the required pull down. I’d think a 1/4HP unit would be more than enough for 180 based system if you’re needing only 2 degrees of cooling. Probably too small if you needed 10 degrees.

I have no direct experience with the JBJ units. Mine is a tradewinds (the best chiller I’ve personally used). My total system volume is about 550 gallons, my pull down is about 5 degrees, and a 3/4HP chiller is more than enough. Probably could have used a 1/2HP unit, but I wanted one with native 1 1/2” plumbing.