Heater Controller

[glenns30]

During Saturday's meeting, Marc mentioned he uses a device that controls power to his heater based on the temperature of his tank. I think my Titanium heaters thermostat is way off. I've had to unplug it to be safe. So, what is this device he was talking about? The only thing I've found costs almost $200.

 

[scottj]

these ranco units are pretty popular...

http://diyreef.com/shop/product_info.php?cPath=76&products_id=37

 

[jklnbrg]

I have used a controller from Jehmco for 3 plus years in a 150 gallon tank. It is always dead-on. http://jehmco.com/PRODUCTS_/HARDWARE_/Temperature_Controller/temperature_controller.html

 

[Laser]

so these will operate 2 heaters at once? is that correct or do you have to get the more expensive model that has dual outputs?

 

[jklnbrg]

The dual recepticle is needed for 2 heaters. I bought the single and use a 500 watt ehater. Plenty for my needs.

 

[melev]

Hydor came out with one that costs $80, and can handle up to 500w. Here's the one I saw at MACNA.

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[Laser]

where could I get the $80 one that you are referring to Marc?

 

[Rick]

Here you go.

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=11371&N=2004+112984

 

[BigSteve]

For what it's worth, i run the Ranco...love it. Have one to a heater and another to a fan. Works great!

 

[Laser]

I am a little confused. I am currently running 2 Jager 100W heaters on a 125 DAS with a chiller. I would like a controller that would be able to handle 2 heaters and a chiller(so that they would not come on at the same time). Is this possible?

 

[Ptt]

In order to run both heater(s) and chiller you need a dual stage controller like this Ranco dual stage controller.

http://diyreef.com/shop/product_info.php?cPath=68&products_id=212

One stage is used to controller heater (or multiple heaters with an extension cord) and the other stage is use to controll the chiller.

Hope that clears things up.

 

[Laser]

Thanks for clearing up the confusion. I will order the dual stage ranco and give it a try.

 

[Ptt]

You might consider investing in the Aquacontroller Jr. It is only cost little more than the Dual Stage Ranco, yet it can do much more.
You can combine the temperature controller, ph monitor and a lot of timers into one unit.
I'm considering buying the Aquacontroller Jr right now. Just waiting for a used one to pop up.