Aquarium Heater

Many fish passionate ask themselves why they need aquarium heaters. You must have an aquarium heater if you have freshwater fish or tropical fish. These fish are sensitive to temperature variations and they prefer a warmer environment.

The aquarium water temperature can fluctuate with the difference between night and day. A fish's metabolism and respiratory systems work much better at constant temperatures. Aquarium heaters can provide the fish the temperature they need in order to survive. A temperature of 78F is perfect for tropical fish.

Types of aquarium heaters

There are four types of aquarium heaters. Submersible heaters, non-submersible heaters, substrate heater and filter heater.

Submersible heaters - submersible heaters can stay completely under water. They keep aquarium’s temperature uniform and have an aesthetic role. This type of heater is more expensive than the others but it is very useful. You must be careful when changing the water to unplug the heater in order to avoid accidents.

Non-submersible heaters - consists of a metallic element controlled by a thermostat and enclosed in a glass or metal tube to prevent contact with water. Non – submersible heaters are hang-on heaters. They must remain above the water line. The advantage is that these heaters are not at all expensive.

Substrate heaters - substrate heaters are perfect if you want to stimulate plant growth, especially if you have live plants in your aquarium. Also these aquarium heaters are very aesthetical because they are set below the substrate. They also offer homogeneous heat to the entire aquarium’s surface.

Filter heaters - filter heaters are relatively new on the market. This type of heater is very efficient and also aesthetic. Usually it is installed into your filter, so when water passes heater activates and heats the water. The advantage is that all the water is heated equally. A disadvantage would be that they are rather expensive being so new on the market.

After you have decided what type of aquarium filter you want, you should take into consideration the size that you need. You must have in mind the aquarium’s size when you buy the heater. If you have a large tank placed in a big room, you will need a bigger heater. Also it is recommended to place the heater at the opposite ends of the tank in order to heat evenly. You must decide also the watt of the heater. So if your room is about 7-10F, a heater of 2.5 watt per gal will be enough. The heather should keep the tank at the same temperature, even if the room gets colder, especially during the night.

Heather could also fail. In order to prevent these problems you can avoid heaters that are larger than your tank’s actual size, or you could have two smaller heaters. If one heater fails the other can keep the tank warm until you remediate the problem.

In conclusion aquarium heaters are very important, almost vital for your fish.