How to Repair an Aquarium Chiller

An aquarium chiller regulates the water temperature if it reaches a warm point the fish cannot handle. A water chiller works similarly to an air conditioning unit that humans use for comfort when temperatures are unbearable. The water chiller is designed to circulate cold water to maintain a steady temperature that your fish need to survive.

Things You'll Need

  • Screwdriver
  • Towel
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Instructions

    • 1

      Unplug the aquarium chiller to avoid electrical shock while working on it.

    • 2

      Remove the chiller by lifting up and taking out the hose that attaches to it.

    • 3

      Dry off the hose and the chiller unit with a towel.

    • 4

      Open up the unit by lifting the cover and take out the intake tube.

    • 5

      Examine the tube and fill with water to be sure there isn't anything blocking the inside of the tube that would stop water from filtering through.

    • 6

      Use a screwdriver to unscrew the back of the unit to see the pump and built-in cooling structure.

    • 7

      Plug the chiller back in and make sure the fan moves while holding onto the unit and keeping your hands away from the blade. If the fan is not moving make sure there is nothing blocking the fan blades. If this still does not solve the problem you may need a replacement. Unplug the unit again for the next step.

    • 8

      Inspect the cooling structure for any decomposition or cracks in the coils. If there are any cracks the coil will need to be replaced.

    • 9

      Screw the backing onto the unit.

    • 10

      Return the unit to the aquarium and plug it in to test if the repairs worked. Allow 30 minutes to monitor the cooling temperature.