I agree that so long the temperature can be achieved, the angels can be happy, it is okay.
After reading from other dear reefers, the colour of angels, water parameters may not as good as those without chiller.
However like you said, the temperature can be achieved by using fan, then it is ok.
By the way, about spending $, yep couldn't really resist if really want and need to get fishy stuffs..
Luckily my kids able to join the fun when I spend time with Fishy :-)