
An aquarium heater is simply a device utilized in the hobby aquarium to heat water to desired temperatures in aquariums. Most marine and freshwater aquariums are kept at temperatures ranging from 22 – 30 degrees Celsius. The main categories are undergravel heaters and glass immersion heaters. Glass immersion aquarium heaters can be used with freshwater or saltwater aquariums; however, they work better with saltwater aquariums due to the larger surface area and their ability to retain heat. Undergravel heaters, on the other hand, are perfect for use with reef aquariums and open water aquariums.
There are two significant benefits associated with using aquarium heaters. The first is to control temperature which can help lower energy bills. It is also a good way of making the water in the tank more oxygenated. The second benefit is to increase the growth rate of plants and animals and to keep the aquarium or fish tank looking more colorful. Both these functions can be accomplished by using a heater. Cons though, of course there are some cons as well.
One of the cons associated with aquarium heaters is that the low temperature can cause shock to fish. This is especially true for very small species like plecos. Submersible heaters are designed differently to prevent shocks like that. Some of the submersible heaters even come equipped with a thermometer to monitor the temperature inside the tank.
When choosing an aquarium heater, make sure to choose one that comes with safety features. Make sure that it does not use too much power or use too much energy. Choose a wattage that matches the aquarium’s size. If you want to purchase a heater with temperature control, choose a heater with a built-in temperature gauge. These safety features should also be accompanied by a warranty.
Two important types of aquarium heaters are marine heaters and saltwater heaters. Marine heaters are ideal for use in tanks that contain live corals or fish. They provide temperature and lighting control. A marine heater must have sufficient power to support the tank’s weight.
Saltwater aquarium heaters are great for use in fresh water tanks or fish tanks that are temporarily installed. These heaters are available with suction cups or dome tops. Suction cups work best with smaller tanks. They provide instant temperature change and suction cups can break delicate glass. There are cons and pros to both.
The most obvious pro associated with aquarium heaters is their capability to lower electrical consumption. Heaters consume a low amount of electrical power when working at the right temperature. Most often, they are found in tanks that are less than three gallons in size, where each gallon of water can heat up to two gallons of water.
Some cons to many heaters are the relatively small amount of power consumed by the unit. These heaters do not provide temperature and lighting control. These heaters do not provide the backup needed should temperatures fall below normal levels.
When looking for an aquarium heater, it is important to find one with a good rating for the size tank you will be using. Tank size will determine the amount of energy used to maintain the proper temperature. Also, consider the expected life of your aquarium. Aquarium tank heaters come in a variety of sizes and models. Some heaters are designed for use in freshwater tanks, while others are designed to work in saltwater tanks.
The wattage rating refers to the electrical power used to operate the aquarium heater. Many aquarium heaters are rated in watts. The larger the size of your aquarium, the higher the number of watts that are required. The efficiency of the aquarium heater will be directly related to the wattage. Most substrate heaters are around twenty-five watts. This means that seventy-five percent of the electricity used to heat the water is turned over to heating the substrate.
The size of the aquarium you will be using will also determine the type of aquarium heater you should purchase. If you want to heat a large tank, it may be necessary to use a hydroponic system or an in-line heater. If your tank is small, an electrical radiant heater may be sufficient.
Aquarium heaters come in many different kinds. One way to save energy is to use different kinds of them. There are hydroponic and in-line heaters that are available in stores today. Submersible aquarium heaters, as well as hydroponic and in-line heaters, can be purchased online.