In reef tanks along with other equipments like lighting and water pumps, we also install heaters to raise the temperature enough to get going and the lights used are also of high intensity so there is a probability that water temperature might raise more than necessary and to the extent of cutting down oxygen supply in the tank. So as to keep the temperature of water constant a chiller is also required to be installed amongst the important equipments of a reef tank. Now the question arises which is the right chiller for your tank?

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There are some important factors that need to be considered before planning on an aquarium chiller like tank size, flow rate of equipment used, and climate conditions. In warmer regions, it is usually a better option to go one size up on the chiller to help make up for warmer temperatures that influence water conditions in the aquarium. Another aspect that will need getting the next larger size is an aquarium with a canopy, as the closed in setup will generate additional heat.

You need an aquarium chiller when:

1. You desire to keep cold water species indoor and declining your indoor temperature too low is not possible.
2. You live in an area which is subjected to regular heat-spells that raise room temperature and create unexpected chaos in your aquarium.
3. You live in a hot part of the globe and lessening your indoor temperature too low is not possible.
4. You have established heat emitting equipment that increase the water temperature, e.g. pumps and light.So if you are sure that your aquarium will need a chiller plan on it sooner as they require a lot of space and plumbing activities that should be done in the beginning. You can also install a chiller even after you have set up you tank and you realize that your aquarium is in need of a chiller. Chillers release considerable amounts of heat when in use. So you should keep away from placing your chiller in an enclosed aquarium stand, because it can give off enough heat to raise water temperature.A regular mistake people make is to unplug the aquarium heater when a chiller is used. This is not a good idea, because it can cause the temperature to drop too far, e.g. if the weather suddenly changes or if you live in a part of the world where the days are hot and the nights cooler. A suitably functioning heater with a thermostat will shut off as soon as the water has become warm enough and it can thus be used together with a chiller. Chillers can be very noisy so check beforehand the noise level of the chiller before purchasing
   

   Types of chillers

   1. Thermoelectric Chillers: noise-free, energy-efficient thermoelectric chillers are planned for use with smaller freshwater and saltwater aquariums, less than 55 gallons, and insulated bait/specimen tanks with a slow water flow. Thermoelectric chillers are not effectual on large aquariums with a fast water flow.
   2. In-Line Chillers: Intended for use on larger systems with in-line filtration, in-line chillers cool already-filtered water, and are used primarily with saltwater reef setups. In-line chillers are available in several sizes, from 1/5 to 1 HP, and hence work with various sizes of aquariums. These chillers call for plumbing, and should be integrated into the overall aquarium plan prior to implementation.
   3. Drop-In Chillers: Drop-in chillers have a probe that is placed directly into wet/dry filters or any filter with a sump, and are used mainly with saltwater reef setups. Drop-in chillers are available in a variety of sizes, 1/5 to 1/3 HP. Since they need no plumbing, drop-in chillers are best for setups with restricted space.