How to Test a Chiller for Water

A water chiller helps to maintain a specific temperature inside of an aquarium to help keep the fish and other aquatic creatures alive and healthy. A water chiller also helps to prevent the unintended growth of algae. The temperature of the room where you store the aquarium can affect the its temperature, which is why you need a chiller in the first place. You can test your chiller with a thermometer and a close inspection.

Things You'll Need

  • Thermometer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Take an accurate temperature reading for the aquarium by sticking it a few inches into the water.

    • 2

      Compare the temperature of the aquarium to the temperature of the aquarium's chiller. The temperatures will not be identical, but they should at least be close.

    • 3

      Check an in-line chiller (a chiller that uses refrigerant) for any leaks in the hoses or plumbing. This type of chiller has two tubes, one for outflow and the other for inflow. Look at the fittings for these tubes and check for droplets of water. If there is moisture around these areas you may have a leak in the chiller.

    • 4

      Check the fan of a thermoelectric type of chiller. If the fan is not running, the chiller will not keep the water at the optimum temperature. The fan of a thermoelectric chiller runs on a cycle so be sure to observe the fan for a few minutes before assuming it is not working properly.

    • 5

      Inspect the tubing of an inline chiller for obstructions like calcium deposits that can block the flow of warm water coming into the chiller and the flow of cool water leaving it.