Reef Tank Temp Info needed

Ernie C · Jan 1, 2019

Hi all, my tank runs about 75 degrees +\- 1 degree. I live in So FLorida so not worried about it dropping much more. My old tank ran at 77 and had a chiller. This new tank is a rimless redsea model and stays cooler. Is 74-75 too cold? Should I get a heater and set it to keep it at around 77? This new tank has been running for about almost a year and I’ve been dealing with issue after issue so trying to tweak it as I work out all the new tank uglies. Thanks.

Brad Miller · Jan 1, 2019

Hi Ernie,
The answer would depend on what your keeping in your tank.
I keep my reef tank at 78

saltyhog · Jan 1, 2019

I agree with Brad. It depends on what you're keeping. However, 75° is right at the lower range of where tropical species can do well and cooler than most tropical waters get. I've seen successful tanks at anywhere from 75-81. I keep mine between 79.5-79.9. In the winter it gives me a bit of a cushion in case of a power outage and I'm not home to hook up the generator.

Ernie C · Jan 1, 2019

I don’t have a a lot. A few frags of some montipora, acans, have a large bubble that I’ve had for over a decade so can’t get rid of it. And some other sps. Right now I’m dealing with algae issues and lighting but won’t get into that in this thread. Lol would you recommend a heater. To bring it up a bit? Right now it’s at 75.7 but I’m sure it will dip over night when I crank the AC for bed.

Brad Miller · Jan 1, 2019

I would put a heater in and set it where you want in the good temp range and try to establish a stable temp for your livestock as they don't have blankets to stay warm and don't like temp swings very much.

Ernie C · Jan 1, 2019

Any recommendations on type of heater?

Brad Miller · Jan 1, 2019

Titanium is the best these days or many reasons...like these
https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/finn...MIvOuN8PPN3wIVwVmGCh22RAmlEAQYASABEgI6APD_BwE

I use my Apex and temp probe to control the on and off

PDR · Jan 1, 2019

I have had great success with the cobalt neotherm heaters. I run my tanks at 78-80.

saltyhog · Jan 1, 2019

Titanium heaters make a lot of sense. What ever type you get I would recommend some type of controller. The most common failure for a heater is to stick in the "on" position. In a small tank it won't take long to get to lethal temps if that happens.