Chiller in attic???

[DeMarcusR]

Has anyone considered running their chiller in the attic instead of outside?

I'm interested in trying to do so simply because the chiller I purchased doesn't appear that It will do well outside.. There is a hole on top of it for the electrical. I'm thinking I could probably pull it off since my system will be run by a single mag 24 pump split between the return, uv and chiller...

For those that would be concerned about access, there is an entrance to the attic three feet away from where I will be locating the chiller should I place it in the attic... Just in-case of any condensation, the chiller will be sitting inside a drip pan with a piece of pvc running out the side of the house...


Any feedback???

 

[patteto]

I don't think the attic is a good location for a chiller for a couple of reasons:
1) having to overcome the vertical height will need a large pump
2) if anything leaks it will cause MAJOR damage
3) and most important, the temps in your attic in the summer will destroy the chiller. It is not design to work under those heat loads.

 

[waterbeing]

I agree with Todd too. In addition, you will likely be adding more heat for the larger pumps too. The chiller will probably have to work much longer to chill properly too since the attic heat will not allow the chiller coils to disperse the heat as well. JMO
Doug

 

[Servo]

As above, but a better idea is to get a TV wall mount shelf (maybe a little more difficult to find with the push to LCD) and place your chiller up near the ceiling. The heat that it generates will stay high and not cook underneath your stand. This will increase it's efficiency because it doesn't have to constantly run.

 

[Rick]

I put mine outside. Which if you do not have a seperate fish room is the next best thing. You just have to make sure it covered so that it does not get rained on.

 

[extinguishfire]

@Rick wrote:

Weedonphoto has his outside with his supply pump and has no issues with it being uncovered. Outside is good so you don't have to deal with it's exhaust heat.

 

[Tremelle]

I would suggest installing it outside. I have seen some nice installs using a Rubber maid storage shed. Here is a link to one, http://www.rubbermaid.com/rubbermaid/product/product.jhtml?prodId=HPProd130011. You can mount it next to the house and also lock it if need be. You can drill holes in the front and sides to aid in ventilation. It would also have room inside to mount or store other items if need be.