A new TECO AQUA solution for maintaining a stable aquarium temperature
TECO Drop-in is the new range of plug-and-play aquarium chillers featuring a titanium heat exchanger immersed directly in the water. It is designed for established aquariums, sumps, technical tanks, temporary installations and any situation where cooling needs to be added without modifying the existing system.
We unveiled the new range at Interzoo 2026 in Nuremberg, where Drop-in immediately attracted the attention of customers, partners and aquariology professionals.
The reason is simple: many systems require precise temperature control, but complex modifications to pipes, fittings or existing configurations are not always possible. With Drop-in, we have developed a compact, reliable and easy-to-install solution designed to simplify aquarium temperature control in a wide range of real-life applications.
What is TECO Drop-in?
TECO Drop-in is an aquarium chiller consisting of an external refrigeration unit and a titanium heat exchanger that is immersed directly in the water. The range provides a practical alternative whenever the water needs to be cooled without connecting the chiller to the aquarium’s hydraulic circuit.
This approach allows the system to be installed more quickly and neatly, with fewer components to manage and no structural modifications to the existing setup.
How does the Drop-in chiller work?
With Drop-in, the titanium heat exchanger operates directly in the water, inside the aquarium, sump or technical tank.
No complex plumbing connections or dedicated pumps are required to circulate water through the chiller. Heat exchange takes place directly where the exchanger is immersed.
To ensure correct operation, the heat exchanger must always remain completely submerged and be positioned in an area with adequate water movement. This promotes efficient heat exchange and helps maintain a stable temperature throughout the system.
When should you choose a Drop-in aquarium chiller?
Drop-in is ideal when an easy-to-integrate cooling solution is required, particularly for systems that are already running or difficult to modify.
It is suitable for:
- established aquariums
- sumps and technical tanks
- DIY systems
- temporary installations
- emergency configurations
- home aquariums
- commercial aquariums, including those used in restaurants, seafood shops and similar environments
In these applications, immersing the heat exchanger directly in the water reduces installation complexity and limits potential critical points associated with pipes, fittings and external connections.
Compatible with freshwater and saltwater aquariums
The TECO Drop-in range is compatible with both freshwater and saltwater. Its titanium heat exchanger makes it suitable for aquatic applications and safe for aquarium life, including fish, plants, live rock and other aquatic organisms.
Drop-in can therefore be used in both home aquariums and commercial applications, where maintaining the correct water temperature contributes to the overall stability of the system.
Three models available
The new TECO Drop-in range is available in three models:
- DI 500, for systems up to 500 liters*
- DI 1000, for systems up to 1,000 liters*
- DI 2000, for systems up to 2,000 liters*
* Water temperature: 25°C; ambient temperature: 30°C; heat load: 0.2 W/L.
The three sizes make it possible to select the most suitable model according to the water volume and operating conditions.
To choose the correct aquarium chiller, several factors should be considered, including the ambient temperature, heat load, pumps and lighting, ventilation inside the technical cabinet and the required level of cooling.
Why TECO AQUA developed Drop-in
With Drop-in, we want to provide a practical solution for anyone looking for an aquarium chiller that is easy to install, integrates neatly into the system and can also be used with aquariums that are already running.
The range is simple to configure, while drawing on TECO’s extensive refrigeration expertise and our understanding of the specific requirements of aquatic systems.
For us, innovation also means removing unnecessary complexity and designing solutions that support the people who work every day with aquariums, equipment and systems that need to remain stable over time.
Frequently asked questions about TECO Drop-in
Does TECO Drop-in require plumbing connections?
No. The titanium heat exchanger is immersed directly in the water, so the chiller does not need to be connected to the aquarium’s hydraulic circuit.
Where should the heat exchanger be positioned?
The heat exchanger can be placed inside the aquarium, sump or technical tank. It must always remain completely submerged and be positioned in an area with adequate water movement.
Is Drop-in suitable for established aquariums?
Yes. Drop-in is also designed for systems that are already running, where modifying the existing setup may be complex or impractical.
Can it be used in freshwater and saltwater aquariums?
Yes. The Drop-in range is compatible with both freshwater and saltwater and is safe for fish, plants, live rock and other aquatic organisms.
Which models are available?
The range is available in three models: DI 500, DI 1000 and DI 2000.
