How to Buy an Aquarium Water Heater
The aquarium water heater is a device that controls the temperature in your aquarium with the help of the thermostat. Different species of fish have different temperature requirements. Corals typically need a constant water temperature and usually do not thrive in sudden changes in temperature.
An aquarium heater is a device that provides heat all throughout the tank. The two common types of aquarium water heaters include the one directly attached to the thermostat and the one that is composed of a combination of heating units with a thermostat, pilot light, and condensers. The typical aquarium water heater has a temperature regulator that allows you to set a temperature range that will signal the water heater to start and stop. It powers on when the temperature of the tank drops lower than the set temperature, and automatically stops when the temperature of the water reaches the temperature limit.
Aquarium heaters often come with thermostats, so that you can place the heater in one side of the tank and the thermostat in the other. In theory, this is supposed to provide an even distribution of heat all over the tank because the heat from the heater needs to travel to the other side of the tank to reach the thermostat.
The three main types of heaters for your aquarium water
There are three main types of aquarium heaters. These are the hang-on tank style, the submersible aquarium water heater, and the heating cable system. The hang-on tank style usually is not very effective at providing even heating because it is only partially submerged. The submersible aquarium water heater on the other hand provides a more even system of heating for the entire aquarium. The heating cable system is submerged underneath the aquarium gravel and is manipulated by a heating control unit. This is the kind of system that is preferred in saltwater tanks but it is useful for freshwater tanks as well.
Factors to consider
The kind of fish you have, the temperature in your room, and the warranty given by your water heater retailer are just three of the factors you need to keep in mind when buying an aquarium water heater. You have to know the temperature your fish are used to and you have to know the temperature in your room because you will be subtracting this from the temperature that is ideal for your fish. Also make sure you get an aquarium water heater with a good and reliable warranty in order to avoid spending too much for repairs when your heater breaks down.
Some extra tips
It is also important to use multiple heaters at a time. Although this is not necessary, if you have large tanks and expensive fish with picky temperature needs, you need a backup heater ready to take over when one breaks down. Having multiple heaters eliminates the risk of sudden temperature drops when the one heater breaks down. Always keep a spare on hand so that you can easily replace the broken heater if you are only using one heater at a time.
Jeffry Johnston is a fish store owner and an aquarium expert who likes to help others succeed in raising their fish as well. He is a member and guest speaker at many aquarium organizations, as well as having a few very large tanks of his own. To find out more about aquarium water heaters and aquarium gravel, please visit marinedepot.com.
