How to Connect a Chiller to an Aquarium Using PVC Pipe

An aquarium chiller is a device used to maintain tank temperature below room temperature. Whereas an aquarium heater is used to heat tank water to accommodate tropical species of aquarium fish, an aquarium chiller is used to maintain low tank temperatures for cold-water species. Aquarium chillers come in a variety of shapes and sizes -- you can even make your own chiller if you so desire. Regardless, attaching the aquarium chiller to your tank requires little more than epoxy and PVC pipe.

  1. When an Aquarium Chiller is Necessary

    • Before you go about shopping for an aquarium chiller, you should first determine whether you need one. Research the tank requirements of the species of fish you intend to raise and compare the tank temperature requirements to the average ambient temperature in your home. If you live in a particularly warm climate or if you do not have air conditioning in your home but plan to keep cold-water species of fish, you may need an aquarium chiller to keep the tank temperature low enough. An aquarium chiller may be required if you intend to install certain heat-producing lighting systems in your tank such as metal halide lights.

    Tips for Selecting and Using a Chiller

    • When selecting an aquarium chiller, do not let price be the deciding factor. Purchasing a low-grade model could save you money initially but may end up costing you more in the long run when it fails to cool your tank properly or if it stops working altogether. Think about how much space you have around your tank to accommodate the chiller and decide whether it is important to you that the chiller run quietly. When you get around to installing your aquarium chiller, do not make the mistake of unplugging your aquarium heater. You will need the heater to regulate the temperature in your tank and to keep it from dropping too low.

    Attaching a Chiller Using PVC

    • To attach your aquarium chiller to your aquarium you will need two pieces of PVC pipe -- one to attach the chiller to the pump and a second for the outlet tube. If you are using a store-bought chiller, measure the diameter of the intake and output valves and purchase PVC wide enough to fit over the valve. When making your own chiller, you can adjust the size of the holes to accommodate whatever PVC you have. Prepare the PVC by cutting two 4-inch pieces and fit them into the corresponding valves in the aquarium chiller. Depending on the model, you may need to attach a PVC fitting to the end of each pipe where it attaches to the chiller so you can connect the interior tubing. After you have the PVC in place, all you need to do is seal it with epoxy.

    Tips for DIY Aquarium Chillers

    • If you plan to build your own aquarium chiller, start by selecting the right cooling element. A mini fridge is is not ideal for an aquarium chiller because it will not produce an adequate cooling effect. A window air conditioner, on the other hand, is a great place to start. Before you set about building your chiller, be sure to clean the cooling element thoroughly to avoid contaminating your tank water. The key to making an efficient DIY aquarium chiller is to create a tight seal to prevent leaks and to ensure that the water being pumped into the chiller is cooled quickly.