Chiller question

[SeaCreature]

Hi I just purchased a chiller. When planning my setup I did not think I would need one so I did not allocate an space for one. The best place aesthetically allows for 12” in the back and several feet in the front but only 2” on both sides. The manufacturers recommendation is 12” on all sides. How important is this requirement?

Chiller is a Aqua Euro Apex 1/6th hp

 

[vetteguy53081]

I have mine under the stand. If you can get it in the back- aesthetically would look better and shorten the amount of line needed to reach your tank from return side