Tips when Buying Aquarium Water Heaters
Barry Jensen | February 24, 2010Aquarium water heaters come in different shapes, sizes, and types. They are used to regulate water temperature in the fish tank, to prevent fluctuating temperature changes that often result in fish stress and poor growth. Some aquarium water heaters are more preferable than other types. Your choice would depend on your fish tank needs and aquarium setup. Hence, it is necessary to do a little research before deciding on the best water heater to suit your aquarium. The following are some of the most common aquarium water heaters being used today.
Submersible aquarium water heaters are basically the types that are placed within the aquarium. The substrate water heater is a cord or a wire that is placed beneath the flooring. It heats up to reach the required water temperature of the fish tank. When this happens, the thermostat cuts off the heat to prevent damage to the fish. For those who want their aquarium to remain free of obstructions, this is the best bet for a water heater.
This heater type is buried under the flooring or the substrate of the aquarium. It consists of a wire that is heated up to warm the water. Once it becomes hot enough, the thermostat kicks off and switches the device off to regulate the water temperature of the fish tank.
A kind of two-in-one device, the in-filter heater manages to regulate the temperature of the water as it is being cleaned. Water passes through the filter, and then heated and deposited back in the right temperature.
The quality of water heater you buy will play a big part in the health of your fish. Hence, a number of factors must be carefully considered before making a choice. One of the factors is obviously the size of the tank. Make sure that the heating ability of the device is suitable for the fish tank.
The breed of the fish themselves also come into play. Some types of fish are capable of living within room temperature. However, others are much more comfortable within hotter or colder surroundings. This is why you must research about the normal habitat requirements of your fish and use this to determine your general wattage selection for the water heater.
It is important to remember that water heaters must be calibrated according to the aquarium that they will service. Aquarium size is very important when deciding on which heater to buy. Also, your target temperature will be determined by researching about the requirements of the fish. Some breeds do better in warmer climate, while others don’t need as much heat.
Finally, try to find water heaters with warranties. This way, you won’t have any repair problems in the future. Don’t be afraid to ask friends or shop owners for their suggestions.
Our author is a featured member and keynote speaker of many fish tank clubs, as well as having multiple large tanks of his own. To get further details about in-line aquarium water heaters and titanium fish tank water heaters, please visit marinedepot.com.
