Aquarium water heaters are one of the most basic accessories for setting up a fish tank. In fact, the fish and other living organisms inside the tank would not thrive without these little regulators that provide them with a perfectly adapted habitat. For aquarists, purchasing the right water heater could take some time. If you are looking for aquarium water heaters, here are some of the things that could affect your decision.
As the name suggests, this type of heater is hung on the side of the aquarium. This type of heater is the cheapest by far and may automatically come with some aquarium kits. However, the hanging type can sometimes distribute heat unevenly. The water closest to the device is more likely to be hotter than the water on the other side.
This type of heater is buried under the aquarium soil or substrate. It consists of a wire that is heated to heat the water. Once it gets hot enough, the thermostat kicks in and turns the device off to regulate the temperature of the water in the fish tank.
Filtered aquarium water heaters are basically a two-for-one deal. Since every aquarium needs a filter to keep it clean and a heater to keep it livable, some manufacturers have decided to combine the two. It works by heating the liquid as it is filtered by the system. Online aquarium heaters are somewhat the same, except they require a pump. The water is pumped out of the aquarium, passes through the heater where its temperature is regulated, and then pushed back into the aquarium.
With inline heaters, water is pumped out of the aquarium through tubes. The water passes through the heater and is returned to the aquarium at the desired temperature.
The breed of the fish also comes into play. Some types of fish are capable of living at room temperature. However, others are much more comfortable in warmer or cooler environments. This is why you should research your fish’s normal habitat requirements and use them to determine your overall water heater wattage selection.
It is important to remember that water heaters must be sized according to the aquarium they will serve. The size of the aquarium is very important when deciding which heater to buy. Also, your target temperature will be determined by researching the requirements of the fish. Some breeds do better in warmer climates, while others don’t need as much heat.
Finally, try to find water heaters with a warranty. In this way, you will not have repair problems in the future. Don’t be afraid to ask friends or store owners for suggestions.
