Innovative Marine Helio Heater

[Cincy_Reefer]

I just started my saltwater tank up but I’m having trouble with my heater.

I have a 400W Innovative Marine Helio PTC system with 2 PTC Titanium heating elements.

When I only plug in one of the heating elements the controller works fine… but when I plug them both in, it doesn’t work.

The indicator lights showing that the elements are heating click on and off, never consistently on.

Anybody know what the issue might be? Perhaps a defective unit?

See attached video.

(ps heating elements and titanium temp gauge are in the sump)

 

[Cincy_Reefer]

Also I’ve tried using both heating elements individually on both of the controller connection ports. Individually they work fine, but both simultaneously is when the issue occurs.

Need both on to get my tank up to temp lol

 

[Lavey29]

I have the same system and had a malfunctioning heating element which Paul at IM quickly corrected. I'm sure you have verified your wiring connections and re booted it via the plug?

 

[Lavey29]

You can probably run one element while you diagnose the problem. My helio has been great for 10 months now.

 

[Cincy_Reefer]

I have the same system and had a malfunctioning heating element which Paul at IM quickly corrected. I'm sure you have verified your wiring connections and re booted it via the plug?

I appreciate the response! Yes, I’ve double checked everything in terms of wiring and always turn it off via the plug when connecting or taking off the heating elements.
Could you please send me Paul’s email?

 

[Lavey29]

I appreciate the response! Yes, I’ve double checked everything in terms of wiring and always turn it off via the plug when connecting or taking off the heating elements.
Could you please send me Paul’s email?

I think I used the info support email from the IM website and he responded quickly.

 

[PeterC99]

Try moving temp probe to overflow box and make sure everything is in high flow area. I have the same heater and once I did this my aquarium temp has been 78 degrees since for over one year.

 

[Lavey29]

Yes you want the temp probe in a different chamber from the elements.

 

[Cincy_Reefer]

I tried moving the temp probe to the overflow box and tested with both heating elements - still getting the same result unfortunately. Blinking elements 1 & 2 “on” for a split second, then turning off. Then repeating every 1-2 seconds.
Reached out to IM support over email!

 

[Innovative Marine]

Great News for Helio PTC Heater Owners!
All electrical components of the system will be warranted for 5 years. If you have already purchased a Helio, you will automatically be upgraded to the 5 year warranty.

We appreciate support and want you to know we support you too.

IM Team

 

[Cincy_Reefer]

I forgot to update on this thread - IM sent me a new controller to swap out with the original and now everything works perfectly!

Glad to see a 5 year warranty on this product