Need help finding a chiller and canister filter

[jalauren]

So, I've been wanting to get an axolotl for a while now (had one a while back, but unfortunately he died- RIP Kip), but before I actually get a new one, I need to get my tank completely set up. I don't have a ton of time to constantly change frozen water bottles, so I want to get a chiller. I have a 20g tank

Do you guys have any chiller recommendations? I really don't want to spend anything more than $170

I also want to get a canister filter, as I know that axolotls don't like water movement. I'm willing to spend around $100
Here's one I found on amazon. Would it be fine?

Actual canister
Amazon.com : SunSun HW-302 3-Stage External Canister Filter, 264 GPH : Aquarium Filters : Pet Supplies
Filters media you have to buy with them
Amazon.com : SunSun Canister Filter Media Set : Aquarium Filter Accessories : Pet Supplies

Thanks!

 

[Swag]

You may not need a chiller. Depending on where you live and how big the tank is you can get away with a small fan or two. Now, if you don't want to do the fans, and don't want to spend a ton (A chiller worth buying will be like $300..) then you could go buy a second hand mini fridge/freezer off craigslist for like $30 and then go to the hardware store and buy a ton of silicone tubing from the pvc section, and a submersible 200 gph pump. Drill two holes in the side of the mini fridge and put the coiled up tubing in there, put one end out of each hole, then run each end into the tank. Attach the pump to one end and turn it on. Boom, homemade chiller. Also once you set it all up you could silicone the holes where the tubing enters and exits so that no cool air leaks out. Will get great results for under $50 or so.

 

[jalauren]

You may not need a chiller. Depending on where you live and how big the tank is you can get away with a small fan or two. Now, if you don't want to do the fans, and don't want to spend a ton (A chiller worth buying will be like $300..) then you could go buy a second hand mini fridge/freezer off craigslist for like $30 and then go to the hardware store and buy a ton of silicone tubing from the pvc section, and a submersible 200 gph pump. Drill two holes in the side of the mini fridge and put the coiled up tubing in there, put one end out of each hole, then run each end into the tank. Attach the pump to one end and turn it on. Boom, homemade chiller. Also once you set it all up you could silicone the holes where the tubing enters and exits so that no cool air leaks out. Will get great results for under $50 or so.

I might try that, thanks! Do you have any recommendations for canister filters? Also, I live in texas, it's almost always going to be too hot haha

 

[Swag]

I've never bought a canister filter before, personally. I've made one out of PVC pipes but it cost too much to make to be worth it. I know Eheim is a good brand, but I think those are really expensive. Sorry I couldn't be more help there.

 

[Haku]

I use this for a chiller:
CoolWorks Microchiller

I live in a hot area, the tank with no chiller was 72 F degrees. I put one of these chillers in on the highest setting and it runs 24/7 and my tank is now at 68 degrees, which is what I hoped for anything between 62-68 F. Although, chillers are worth investing in. I have a 20gal tank. If you want to lower it more than 4 degrees you'll have to spend $400.

I use a 30gal waterfall filter from National Geographic:
National Geographic™ Aquarium Filter | Filters | PetSmart

 

[KCKme]

Hello, You will need a chiller here in Houston. I tried those microchillers and they didn't drop the temperature enough during the summer. You could try two microchillers, but still during the brutal July/August timeframe your tank will only drop 5 degrees or so below ambient room temperature. Look for chillers on ebay, I got a used AquaEuro for a lot less than new price and it works fine. The post on the mini fridge is a great idea! want to give that a try next And it is definitely cheaper than the chiller route.

And do not get that SunSun. I got one and the thing was defective, the directions were non-existent - horrid absolutely horrid. Try an eheim 2215 or 2217 or the Fluval 406. all of these are in your price range and are very good canisters.

Good luck!