Broken ac, heatwave and lighting

[Addictedtobettas]

We’re heading into a low heat wave here but even with ac the temps in the tanks often creep over 80-81.
However the ac is currently unusable for some time which almost guarantees the tanks will get to the 80-82 range during the day.

Can I leave off the lights for several days? I’ve noticed they raise temps a degree or two in general.

Should I unplug the heaters and just let them self regulate better? In the past this has meant a tank temp of 75-80 (when a heater broke or whatnot) throughout the day.

Any ideas for what I can do? I’d hate to come in and find the tanks are pushing 82+.

 

[Argos]

Hmm, that is a tough question. First: fish are more hardy/able to adapt to changes more than people give them credit for.

I personally would probably unplug the heater and let the temperature fluctuate naturally. In nature, bodies of water go through the same changes. Depending on the inhabitants 82 might be too hot. Another option might be the use of fans across the water surface and in generic use. I also would probably keep the lights off and monitor the results; this won't hurt anything. So pretty much, would do everything you suggested.

I believe a chiller would be overkill.

 

[ChrissFishes01]

Argos gave some good advice - although, all of your suggestions are good as well.

Unless you're keeping some super sensitive cooler-water fish, I think you'll be fine. Most fish can adapt (especially for short periods of time) to parameters way outside of their supposed range. White Clouds, if you go by a lot of resources online, can only live at 74 degrees or lower. Yet, I've bred them outside in tubs at 84 degrees. A lot of others have too. German Blue Rams do best at 82-84 - sure. But, I've known people to keep them at 75 with no issues. Discus really like to be at 84-86 - yet I've seen people keep them for years at room temperature. Are any of these necessarily ideal? No, but the fish all survived, and in many cases, thrived.

 

[mattgirl]

I normally keep my tanks at 76. It isn't unusual for them to get up to 80 or even a bit more during the hottest part of the summer. We have AC but don't keep it cold in here. Keeping the lights off and a fan blowing across the top of the tank helps keep the temps down. Adding extra aeration is a good idea. There is less oxygen in warmer water so adding sponge filters or at least air stones should help add extra oxygen.