How to Fix an Aquarium Chiller

Aquarium chillers are important to maintain the proper water temperature for fish that require cooler water to survive. Most aquarium chillers function very similarly to the cooling system in air conditioning units with several components that can break down. Fixing a unit that isn't working involves trouble-shooting where the problem is and then replacing the part that no longer works. This is much less expensive than buying a new unit. which is costly.

Things You'll Need

  • Screwdriver
  • Workstation table
  • Towels
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Instructions

  1. How to Fix an Aquarium Chiller

    • 1

      Turn off the aquarium chiller and unplug it. Remove it and its pipe from the tank and place it on a workstation table. Dry the components.

    • 2

      Remove the intake tube that sucks the water from the tank into the chiller. Filter water through it and make sure there are no obstructions preventing water flow. Remove them if necessary. If there are holes/cracks in the tubing, purchase a replacement tube, discard the old tube and replace with the new. Repeat for the output tube. If this does not solve the problem, go to Step 3. If it does, go to Step 7.

    • 3

      Unscrew the back of the water chiller exposing the pump and cooling system. Be sure that all parts are dry.

    • 4

      Plug the unit in and check the pump and fan. If there is no movement, there may be an electrical problem in the cord. This may require unit replacement. If both are operating without obstructions and are moving freely, move to Step 5. If one is moving but not the other, check for obstructions to free. If this doesn't work, replacement of the unit may be required. If this was the problem, go to Step 6.

    • 5

      Examine the refrigerant unit. It will be the unit with coils. Check for corrosion, cracks and leaks. Leaks of coolant can poison fish and need to be replaced.

    • 6

      Screw cover back on securely.

    • 7

      Take the unit back to the tank to test the repairs. Turn on and give 15 minutes to see if temperature cools.