Ranco probe water proof?

[slither9192]

I keep saltwater fish and some very small tanks (<3gallons). It can be an issue heating sometimes because the heater isn't meant for such a small volume of water. I would like to attach it to a thermostat if possible. Does anyone know if the probe on ranco thermostats can be used in water?

[anendeloflorien]

I'm pretty sure it says specifically not to use the probe underwater as it can short out which would fry all the fish! There's plenty of thermostats made specifically for fish tanks and quite a few which I've seen that are even cheaper than rancos.

[slither9192]

Thanks, I've looked before but didn't find anything, but after looking a little hard I've found some that look good.

[ApexPredator]

Ranco thermostats can be used in water as I remember from a couple of years ago when I kept reef tanks people would use the Ranco's on their chillers to keep everything at an exact temp. Aquarists always swore by them and claimed that they were nearly bullet proof. More modern aquarium thermostats have come out since then but unless Ranco's have changed within the last two years or so I don't think you would have a problem. Check on reefcentral.com for your own peace of mind.

[Desert]

The Ranco factory probe should not be immersed bare. The good news is there is a company that builds titanium encased probes for immersion and nema 4x fittings with plug cords for that thermostat's housing.

[wax32]

I used a Ranco on my chiller for my reef tank. I don't remember the probe looking any different than the one on my Ranco that I use for my corn rack...

I'm not suggesting you dunk it to find out tho!