How to choose a heater (heater) for an aquarium

The functional feature of an aquarium heater is that it is required not only to bring the water temperature to parameters favorable for the life of fauna, but also to constantly maintain this mode. From a design point of view, the device is quite simple: it consists of a heating element and a control sensor. Additional equipment with useful features allows you to improve the care of heat-loving fish and avoid their death.

Manufacturers offer waterproof devices that differ in power and type of installation in the aquarium (internal or external). Experts recommend purchasing modern electrical devices at the rate of 1 W per 1 liter of water. When choosing a device, in addition to the volume of the container, you should take into account the thermal conductivity of the material from which it is made, its configuration, the presence of a lid, the atmosphere in the room and other factors. Many modern devices are equipped with a thermostat to regulate the temperature. This is a very useful feature that is worth paying extra for to create a comfortable environment in the aquarium.

TOP 7 best aquarium heaters

From a technical point of view, aquarium heaters are simple: they consist of a sensor and a heater, and are very similar in appearance. However, all devices have differences in characteristics, price, functions and type of installation. The TOP 7 includes various models - for any needs, for different types of fish. These are heaters that experts recommend - modern electrical devices that can accurately maintain water temperature and operate uninterruptedly for a long time. At the same time, the list includes only submersible heaters; external heaters are somewhat inferior to them in practicality.

AQUAEL ULTRA HEATER 50W

High-quality heater for all types of aquariums. It is suitable not only for fresh, but also for sea and salt water, and can also be used in terrariums and turtle cages. This model is distinguished by reliability and good performance - the device, designed for 50 liters, according to customer reviews, can cope with large volumes. And the modern design, simplicity and range of adjustments make it even more attractive. However, the overall picture is slightly spoiled by the deviation of the actual temperature from the set one that occurs in individual specimens. And although these are isolated cases, and the difference is no more than 1-2 degrees, it is worth checking before starting operation.

Advantages:

• light indication;
• design;
• justified price;
• stable work;
• durability.

Flaws:

• some specimens are inaccurate in temperature.

Homefish 2100

The price of a budget immersion heater does not exceed 700 rubles. At the same time, its functionality and reliability are no worse than those of more expensive analogues. The device easily heats and maintains the required temperature in aquariums up to 80 liters. It can warm up to 100, but in this case reaching the set values ​​will take more than two days. The device also has a very wide adjustment range within 16-32 degrees, which is not found in all heaters. And if the rustic design in the form of a transparent tube and a tight temperature regulator are not critical, the model will be an excellent choice in terms of price-quality ratio.

Advantages:

• low cost;
• temperature from 16 to 32 degrees;
• Suitable for aquariums up to 100 l.

Flaws:

• the regulator is tight.

AQUAEL AQN PLATINIUM HEATER 150W

A powerful and reliable heater quickly reaches the set temperature and, having switched to standby mode, maintains it practically without errors. The fully electronic device is equipped with a light indication, so you can control the heating visually. If for any reason the water temperature becomes higher than the one set on the regulator, an intermittent signal will indicate the need for checking. This function is especially important in hot weather, when the aquarium is heated by air or sunlight. As reviews show, if the heater is used in large containers, it is preferable to ensure water circulation.

Advantages:

• suitable for large aquariums up to 150 l;
• accurate;
• holds temperature accurately;
• ease of installation;
• durable body.

Flaws:

• no overheat protection.

JBL ProTemp S 150

The ProTemp model is undoubtedly the best aquarium heater in terms of functionality. The manufacturer did not skimp on options and equipped the device with everything necessary for safe operation. The auto shut-off function will work if the water level drops; the casing, reliable suction cups and quartz glass will not allow the inhabitants of the aquarium to damage the heater or injure themselves. The high class of water resistance allows you to use the device by immersing it in water to a depth of one meter. In combination with a powerful 150 W ceramic heating element, this made the heater optimal for containers up to 200 liters. But as a result, the price of this device is higher than average.

Advantages:

• auto shutdown;
• impact-resistant glass;
• fast heating;
• There is a protective cover.

Flaws:

• high price.

Tetra HT 100

When you need to buy a good aquarium heater with an optimal price-quality ratio, many choose this model. The cylindrical submersible device is designed for medium-sized aquariums of 100 - 150 liters. At the same time, its temperature characteristics can compete with more expensive competitors: an error of no more than 0.5ºС, a wide range, a complete absence of differences and failures when heating water. Buyers unanimously recommend the heater for purchase for its reliability and quality, ease of use, and also for its affordable price.

Advantages:

• excellent temperature characteristics;
• proven quality and reliability, 2-year warranty;
• heating accuracy;
• reliability and practicality;
• body made of durable, heat-resistant Borosilikat glass.

Flaws:

• Suitable for fresh water only.

Eheim Thermocontrol 125

A powerful and efficient submersible heater for aquariums and terrariums combines the best characteristics, which is why it was included in the rating. The device is designed for heating large volumes of water and aquariums from 150 to 200 liters. The water temperature is set in a wide range - from 18 to 30ºС, with a minimum step and an accuracy of 0.5ºС. In addition, the model is suitable for all types of fish - marine or freshwater. A good bonus was the protective function of emergency shutdown when the water level drops. The model has no disadvantages, but some buyers paid attention to the too thin, albeit durable, design.

Advantages:

• functionality;
• temperature accuracy up to 0.5ºС;
• suitable for salt water;
• There is an emergency shutdown when the water level drops.

Flaws:

• The design is somewhat thin, but there are no complaints about the strength.

BARBUS HEATER 001

Model Heater 001 is the best budget aquarium heater. The compact device has a familiar design, has a cylindrical shape and is of the submersible type. According to buyers, the model is good both in its external design and in the reliability of its fastening - the suction cups hold the device perfectly. The green color of the heater is great for small aquariums with plants; it does not attract unnecessary attention and looks organic. But there are rare comments about the operation of the thermostat; users note a small error of 1-2 degrees - this should be taken into account when purchasing.

Advantages:

• long working life;
• no interruptions in the operation of the thermostat;
• color and design;
• reliability of fastening.

Flaws:

• A small error in temperature of 1-2 degrees was revealed.

What is a heater for?

The main task of the heater is to regulate the temperature of the water to prevent overheating or hypothermia of fish, snails, shrimp, algae and other inhabitants. Most often, the need for it arises in summer and winter, when, due to high or low ambient temperatures, it is necessary to either cool or warm the water in the tank.

Temperature is one of the most important environmental factors. A slight variation of this indicator of 2-3 degrees can lead to the development of diseases and then to the death of pets. The optimal temperature for fish should be in the range from 22 to 32 degrees - this depends on the type of inhabitants. For example, if the aquarium is inhabited by tropical inhabitants, then it is necessary to maintain a temperature of about 30-32 degrees.

Why do you need a thermostat in an aquarium?

Temperature control in the life of the aquatic world is one of the decisive factors for the well-being of its inhabitants. For example, optimal warmth for fish is the key to their health, and sometimes even their existence. Low (for them) temperature causes hypothermia and weakening of the body. The result is illness and possibly death.

In turn, plants also need a certain thermal range. Most species grow within the range from +220 to +280. If they are disturbed, plants lose their decorative qualities. Their vital processes are disrupted, which can lead to complete death.

Thermostats will help control and maintain optimal heat in the aquarium. They are water heaters with a built-in adjustable sensor.

1. The thermostat in the aquarium maintains the optimal temperature in the aquarium without human intervention.

The thermostat is attached to the heater and immersed in water. With it you don't need to monitor the thermometer. As soon as the temperature parameters deviate from the set values, the thermostat will automatically turn the heating on or off. As soon as the required environment is established, the thermostat will turn off. This way, aquatic inhabitants are protected from cooling or overheating at any time of the day, even if no one is home.

Vladislav Komissarzhevsky – Senior manager of the city of Rostov-on-Don.

Fluval E 50W

A solid, high-quality heater is designed for aquariums up to 50 liters. Its power is 50 W. The built-in LCD display shows the current operation of the device and the selected temperature range. Here it can be adjusted from 20 to 34 degrees. The main advantages include two temperature sensors and a continuous water monitoring system, so the heater more reliably maintains the set parameters. It is suitable for sea and fresh water. If the outside temperature rises by more than 3 degrees, the device will emit a sound signal and a light signal. There is an operation indicator and a water level control sensor, so if it drops, the device will immediately turn off. The case is reliable and waterproof.

Pros:

1. High quality assembly and parts;
2. There are different capacities of this model on sale;
3. Thermostat with temperature switching in 0.5 degree steps;
4. There are two temperature indicators;
5. Constant temperature monitoring;
6. LCD display.

Minuses:

1. High price.

Eheim, 3656010, 150 W

The heater has a power of 150 W, which allows it to be used for aquariums with a water volume of up to 300 liters. The design of the heater is also safe for people and fish: the heating element is enclosed in a glass flask with a plastic braid. The temperature here cannot be adjusted; it always remains at the same value - 25 degrees. The LED indicator will immediately turn off the device if the water level in the aquarium drops. It also triggers when the device is removed from the water. It is suitable for fresh and sea water, and is attached to the glass using two reliable suction cups.

Pros:

1. Good power;
2. Suitable for large aquariums up to 300 liters;
3. Stylish appearance;
4. LED shutdown indicator when the water level drops;
5. Safe design;
6. Suitable for fresh and sea water.

Minuses:

1. No thermostat.

AQUAEL Ultra Heater UH-75W

The device has small dimensions: length - 20 cm, and rod diameter - 9 mm. It is designed to work in sea and fresh water and is equipped with a power of 75 W. This power is enough to heat an aquarium with a volume of 35 to 75 liters. The body of the device is made of durable plastic, which is completely safe for fish and is also shock-resistant and moisture-proof. There is a One Touch thermostat built in here, which allows you to adjust the temperature from 20 to 33 degrees. The indicator light indicates that the device is in the water heating state. And if it turns off, a sound signal indicates this. The built-in water level sensor will turn off the device and it will drop. The heater is attached to two suction cups.

Pros:

1. Modern design;
2. Reliable and safe design;
3. There is a work indicator;
4. There is a water level decrease sensor;
5. It is possible to select the temperature;
6. There are models for larger aquariums on sale.

Aqueon Pro Heater

The most affordable model is sold in stores with different powers: 50, 100, 150, 200 and 250 W. This allows you to select a device for an aquarium with different volumes of water. The heater body is made of thermoplastic, which is highly durable and not subject to mechanical damage. It evenly dissipates heat, which in turn will not allow the fish to get burned on its hot surface, since it will be equally warm over the entire area. At the top of the heater there is a convenient mechanical temperature regulator, with clear and large numbers. There is a color indication here. When the water level drops and is pulled out, the heater will automatically turn off.

Pros:

1. There is automatic protection in the absence of water;
2. High-quality body and reliable materials;
3. There is a choice of model power;
4. Can be placed vertically and horizontally;
5. There is a color indicator.

Minuses:

1. Inaccurate temperature selection;
2. No overheat protection.

Buyer's Guide: Questions and Answers

Why do you need an aquarium heater?

Decorative aquarium fish require warm water for their habitat. And the water in the aquarium will cool down very quickly and become equal to the air in the room in temperature, which will be detrimental to them. Therefore, it is so important to purchase a heater that will maintain the desired water temperature.

How to choose

Heater type

Unregulated is the simplest and cheapest type of heater, which consists of a tube and a heater. It must be turned on and off manually, because it can boil water.

Electromechanical - compact devices equipped with a mechanical regulator maintain a given temperature regime.

Digital is a modern and safe heater with more precise temperature control.

For what kind of water?

The water in the aquarium can be fresh or sea, so it is important to familiarize yourself with the capabilities of the heater before purchasing. Not all of them will be able to work in sea water, as it is considered more aggressive.

Design

It is advisable to choose heaters of good construction so that it is safe for fish and humans. Such a design may consist of thick glass and additional plastic braiding.

Power

The heater power is selected based on the calculation of 4 watts per 10 liters of water;

Ability to change temperature

Be sure to choose a device with a thermostat so that you can select the right temperature for your fish. Typically this range is from 19 to 34 degrees.

Addition

Water level control sensor - it will turn off the heater if the water level starts to drop;

Light indicator - will notify the user in what state it is currently in: heating water or turned off;

Water monitoring sensor - this sensor will allow you to more accurately maintain the water temperature.

How to install

It is better to purchase a fully submersible heater, which you can install horizontally or vertically in the aquarium (depending on the model). Usually it is mounted on suction cups and then plugged into the network. Be sure to set the required temperature on the thermostat and do not turn on the device until you lower it into the water.

EHEIM Jager for aquarium

The immersion heater is quite long, so take this fact into account before purchasing. It can be positioned vertically or horizontally. The TruTemp dial is very easy to set up, so you can easily set the desired temperature. After purchase and installation, you must carry out calibration in order to more accurately select the temperature. There is an on/off indicator, as well as an automatic shutdown if the water level drops. The body of the model is made of durable and thick glass that can withstand large temperature changes.

Pros:

1. High quality glass body;
2. There is an automatic shutdown when there is no water;
3. There is a choice of power on offer;
4. Easy setup;
5. 3 years warranty.

Minuses:

1. A calibration process is required which may take several days.

Cobalt Aquatics Neo-Therm Heater

The heater allows you to adjust the temperature from 20 to 35 degrees. The special Cobalt thermostat system will maintain the set temperature extremely accurately. The design is quite small in size, and its flatness especially attracts attention. The heater is equipped with light indicators that display the set temperatures and the current water temperature. The water heater is a submersible type. Its body is made of durable plastic that can withstand large temperature changes and mechanical damage. Built-in thermal protection is designed to automatically turn off the device if it overheats.

Pros:

1. High quality assembly and parts;
2. Super flat design;
3. Stylish design;
4. Simple controls;
5. Support of the set temperature;
6. Safety;
7. Automatic shutdown when overheated.;
8. The manufacturer provides a 3-year warranty.

Minuses:

1. The suction cups quickly lose their strength.

Product comparison table

Types of aquarium heaters

Depending on the manufacturing technology, heaters are divided into mechanical and electronic.

Mechanical

They have a budget price category. They are reliable and stable. But they have an error in determining temperature indicators. Therefore, if there is a need for exact numbers, then you need to additionally purchase a thermometer.

Electronic

Have high accuracy. It is also equipped with an information board. But such heaters have a lower level of reliability and a fairly high price. The temperature is regulated using a controller. They are compact and have a durable body.

Both types have a thermostat that prevents the water from overheating or falling below the specified temperature.

Tetra HT 150

The inexpensive heater has a power of 150 W. The manufacturer recommends selecting a device for aquariums no more than 225 liters and no less than 150. The design of the model is made of a thick layer of borosilicate glass, which withstands temperature well and does not crack when it changes. The heating element is of a double ceramic type and retains its functionality much longer. The thermostat allows you to adjust the temperature from 19 to 31 degrees, in temperature steps of 0.5 degrees. There is a light indication and a long network cable of 2 meters.

Pros:

1. Affordable price;
2. High-quality case, parts and assembly;
3. There is a sensitive thermostat;
4. There is a light indication;
5. Long network cable;
6. Long service life.

Xilong XL-888

Waterproof heaters with built-in temperature controller.

1. Xilong XL-888 produces models with the following power: 500 w – up to 500 l; 400 w – up to 400 l; 300 w – up to 300 l; 200 w – up to 200 l; 100 w – up to 100 l; 50 w – up to 50 l;

The heaters are manufactured in a metal casing.

The nature of the work is automatic. Maintains the temperature in the set mode through periodic heating. As soon as the heat is set at the desired level, the regulator turns off. As it cools down it turns on again.

How to properly install an additional thermostat on a water heater

Installation is carried out based on the characteristics of heating devices. They come in two types:

• Submersible;
• Ground or thermal cable.

Submersible thermostats are made waterproof. Its installation can be carried out in both vertical and horizontal positions, but under one important condition:

• It can only be mounted to the walls of the aquarium; immersion in the ground is unacceptable.

To attach a heater with a built-in thermostat, you need to use special suction cups or brackets. They come included with the device.

Tip #1 . Note! The thermostat can be turned on no earlier than after 15 minutes of heater operation.

Another type of thermostat is a thermal cable or ground heater . It is placed at the bottom of the aquarium and covered with plants and inert decor. The thermal cable creates uniform heating due to water circulation.

Important! Regardless of the type of equipment, it cannot be connected outside of water. During their operation, it is unacceptable to immerse your hands in the aquarium.