Ranco controller

Jeeperz · Nov 15, 2019

So, I purchased a ranco controller based on reviews here and elsewhere. I purchased the etc-111000-000. I hope it's the correct one. I emailed the supplier about the temp probe that ranco uses, they said it's not suitable for use in liquids and a "well" must be used. Did I get the wrong controller? Sucks because I ordered 2 and 2 backup temp probes. What is this well they are referring too and how do I make it. Will my temp accuracy be off due to the heat sink effect? Thanks in advance

redfishbluefish · Nov 15, 2019

It's the biggest problem with InkBird and Ranco's....you need a waterproof probe....no big deal. Folks who have had problems, it is because they aren't using a waterproof probe. And yes, you got a good controller. I haven't used a Ranco or InkBird in years so don't have a recommendation for a probe. Maybe #reefsquad can help here.

Flippers4pups · Nov 15, 2019

Jeeperz said:
So, I purchased a ranco controller based on reviews here and elsewhere. I purchased the etc-111000-000. I hope it's the correct one. I emailed the supplier about the temp probe that ranco uses, they said it's not suitable for use in liquids and a "well" must be used. Did I get the wrong controller? Sucks because I ordered 2 and 2 backup temp probes. What is this well they are referring too and how do I make it. Will my temp accuracy be off due to the heat sink effect? Thanks in advance

Here you go:

Thermal Well For Aquariums - 3/8" Clear Heat Shrink Tubing

www.rancoetc.com

Read the instructions.

Jeeperz · Nov 15, 2019

Thanks. That would have been excellent information to have from the manufacturer or supply house where I bought the controller. Nowhere did I read that on either of their pages.

ca1ore · Nov 16, 2019

That’s unfortunate. I bought the pre-wired version from rancoetc.com and they have an option for a probe sleeve for a couple of extra $.

Jeeperz · Nov 16, 2019

Just ordered the heat shrink from them.

TroyClark · Nov 17, 2019

I have used the Rancos on my large tanks for 15+ years and have never had a problem using them without a well (never knew I needed them). Super accurate and easy to use. Now that I have fewer tanks I use them on all my tanks ranging from 120 to 25 gallons.

Jeeperz · Nov 17, 2019

This is why I chose the ranco vs inkbird. I do use a diy inkbird for my 170 but it was a pain to make, blah, blah, blah. It works great but the probe that comes with the inkbird(stainless) is not suitable for saltwater, according to inkbird. They did send me a new plastic probe for free but it required a change to my diy box. It's been running for 2 years and keeps good temp. I wanted something sturdy and a real commercial duty product makes me feel better.

cvrle1 · Nov 18, 2019

Jeeperz said:
This is why I chose the ranco vs inkbird. I do use a diy inkbird for my 170 but it was a pain to make, blah, blah, blah. It works great but the probe that comes with the inkbird(stainless) is not suitable for saltwater, according to inkbird. They did send me a new plastic probe for free but it required a change to my diy box. It's been running for 2 years and keeps good temp. I wanted something sturdy and a real commercial duty product makes me feel better.

Put a thin layer of silicone on that SS probe and it is good to go.

Jeeperz · Nov 18, 2019

I had an issue with the stainless probe, i had to keep changing the offset for it to maintain temp, an email to inkbird told me that the stainless is not for saltwater use. The plastic probe they sent has been trouble free for 2 years

LadyTang2 · Jan 8, 2020

Can anyone link to the ranco that has the probe ready for water not requiring this wrap?

ca1ore · Jan 8, 2020

Easy enough to make your own well out of some vinyl hose and a bit of silicone sealant.

Jeeperz · Jan 8, 2020

I just purchased the recommended "well" hose, it's just a shrink wrap of sorts. I think the one ready to go is around $100

ca1ore · Jan 9, 2020

LadyTang2 said:
Can anyone link to the ranco that has the probe ready for water not requiring this wrap?

I do not believe such a thing exists. You can buy the metal probe with the plastic sleeve already installed.

Ranco ETC-111000-000 Prewired Digital Temperature Controller

www.rancoetc.com

There’s an option to get the shrink as you checkout .... for a few bucks.

DCR · Jan 9, 2020

LadyTang2 said:
Can anyone link to the ranco that has the probe ready for water not requiring this wrap?

AquaLogic makes a controller that is the Ranco with a titanium probe. A bit pricey, but if you do not want to deal with the well.

robbyg · Jan 12, 2020

DCR said:
AquaLogic makes a controller that is the Ranco with a titanium probe. A bit pricey, but if you do not want to deal with the well.

That is the temp controller that I got with my Aqualogic Chiller, only difference is mine is the two stage unit.

This one

One plug for a chiller and another for a heater. I got it for free when I bought the chiller.
It's a bit bulky but it works great.

BTW that price on Amazon is a RIP! Try Marine Depot.
Aqua Logic Marine Depot

clm65 · Jan 31, 2020

Does anyone have a picture or description of how much of the probe is shrink wrapped? I just ordered a ranco controller off amazon and a pre-waterproofed probe was not an option.

Mical · Nov 4, 2020

I know this is an old thread, but I felt the need to add to it. The Ranco is a more superior temp controller then the Inkbird will EVER be.
I purchased 2 Inkbird 306a's (dual heat controllers w/dual plastic coated probes) I went directly to Inkbird re: fluctuating temps, after calibration they swing up to 2 degrees different within an hour. Got the "song and dance" from Inkbird "send pics, send videos, rinse & repeat over a 2 week time. I took BOTH to friends of mine at University Of Minnesota's science labs for them to calibrate - after 4 hours there - they said replace or toss these, they are pretty worthless for any accurate readings. They suspect Inkbird tests their controllers in oil not water and their controllers will not stay in sync with temp changes in water. Just an FYI for anyone considering Inkbirds.

For temp controllers with metal probes, instead of heat-shrink you can use "Plasti-dip" the same stuff you dip tools in to plastic coat handles.

Flippers4pups · Nov 4, 2020

Mical said:
I know this is an old thread, but I felt the need to add to it. The Ranco is a more superior temp controller then the Inkbird will EVER be.
I purchased 2 Inkbird 306a's (dual heat controllers w/dual plastic coated probes) I went directly to Inkbird re: fluctuating temps, after calibration they swing up to 2 degrees different within an hour. Got the "song and dance" from Inkbird "send pics, send videos, rinse & repeat over a 2 week time. I took BOTH to friends of mine at University Of Minnesota's science labs for them to calibrate - after 4 hours there - they said replace or toss these, they are pretty worthless for any accurate readings. They suspect Inkbird tests their controllers in oil not water and their controllers will not stay in sync with temp changes in water. Just an FYI for anyone considering Inkbirds.

For temp controllers with metal probes, instead of heat-shrink you can use "Plasti-dip" the same stuff you dip tools in to plastic coat handles.

I had nothing but issues with the Inkbirds I had. Each would drift to the point i couldn't calibrate them anymore. Became useless.

Your mileage may vary.