Best Aquarium Heater By Tank Size: Tried & Tested! (2024)

Imagine coming home after a long day, eagerly anticipating the tranquility of your beautiful fish tank, only to be met with a devastating sight: your fish tank has transformed into a scorching hot tub, causing tragedy to your beloved fish. It’s a heart-wrenching scenario that no fish enthusiast should experience.

It’s quite easy to believe that room temperature alone is sufficient for your fish, especially if you live in a relatively mild climate. And you may also think that any heater will do the job in your fish tank. However, we’ve learned the hard way that these assumptions can endanger your aquatic companions.

The perfect aquarium heater depends on various factors, including external temperature condition, tank size, and your fish species’ specific needs.

In this comprehensive guide, we delve deep into the world of aquarium heaters, exploring the best options based on different specifications. This article will provide in-depth answers and valuable recommendations and help you make an informed decision to meet all your heater needs.

04/26/2024 09:19 pm GMT

How To Choose The Best Aquarium Heater

Aquarium heaters help maintain a consistent and stable water temperature, ensuring that your fish are healthy and stress-free. Sudden temperature fluctuations spell danger for your aquatic pet since they’re very sensitive to the slightest changes and will react negatively.

Aquarium heaters allow you to regulate the temperature in your tank as long as you know what to look for and which factors make a suitable heater.

Consider the following factors when shopping for your heater:

Temperature Control

When choosing a heater for your aquarium, consider its ability to customize and maintain certain temperatures based on your fish’s specific requirements. I recommend heaters with a built-in thermostat or those that are compatible with an external thermostat.

Heaters with built-in thermostats allow you to conveniently set and maintain the desired temperature range for your aquarium on the device, while thermostat-compatible heaters provide the option to connect a separate temperature controller. I also recommend a heater with digital displays, as they’re user-friendly and easier to decipher than analog displays, allowing you to get an accurate temperature read.

Tank Size

A small 10-watt heater will have zero effect on a 40-gallon tank since its power is greatly outweighed by the amount of water. A rule of thumb is to allocate 3-5 watts for every gallon of water, meaning a 20-gallon tank would need a 60-100 watt heater. Heaters come in various wattages, and it should be easy to select one that aligns with your tank. I’ll recommend some effective heaters for different tank sizes below.

Fish Species

Different fish species have unique temperature preferences, so you should know the specific temperature requirements to set your heater properly. Tropical fish, for example, typically require water temperatures between 75°F and 80°F.

It also means that if different fish species cohabit in the same tank, you should ensure similar water temperature requirements.

Safety Controls

A good heater should have safety controls in cases like overheating or atmospheric temperature changes.

These features include automatic shutoff, overheat protection, an easy-to-use control knob, and an on/off light indicator.

Heater Durability

It’s vital to have a heater that can withstand the test of time. Go for heaters that comprise shatterproof and durable materials like sturdy plastic and titanium since these last longer and eliminate the chances of glass or ceramic shards.

Overall Reliability

Check if the heater has relevant safety certifications, such as UL (Underwriters Laboratories) or ETL (Intertek). These certifications indicate that the heater has undergone rigorous testing to meet safety standards and is deemed safe for use in aquariums.

Read reviews and testimonials from other aquarium hobbyists to gauge how reliable a specific heater model is. Investing in a reliable heater will save you time, effort, and money in the long run by avoiding heater malfunctions and maintaining a stable aquarium atmosphere.

Best Aquarium Heater for Small Tanks (1-10 gallons)

Small tanks need special care because they experience more temperature fluctuations than larger tanks. Since they have a smaller water volume, they don’t have enough thermal mass to retain heat, and they have less water movement compared to large tanks.

This is why it’s vital to choose a heater that’s made specifically for the amount of water in your tank, whether it is a 2, 5, or 10-gallon tank.

To narrow your search, we’ve listed 4 top heaters with their pros and cons below:

Fishkeeping Advice’s Top Pick: FREESEA Aquarium Fish Tank Heater

The FREESEA Aquarium Fish Tank Heater is perfect for small tanks and provides a watt chart that tells you which wattage is best for your tank. It’s the best option for a 5-gallon aquarium and features an adjustable temperature control that ranges from 63-95 degrees Fahrenheit. There’s also a free stick thermometer alongside every purchase, so you can observe water temperature at any time.

This heater is great for maintaining water temperature because it starts heating once the temperature is below the set temperature and automatically goes off when above. The watt chart, automatic temperature control, and compact size of this heater make it our top pick.

Hygger Mini Glass Aquarium Heater

The Hygger Mini Glass Aquarium Heater is a fully submersible, compact heater with an adjustable temperature range of 63°F to 94°F. It’s ideal for 1-6.5 gallon tanks and is made of heat-resistant glass, ensuring your fish’s safety.

The heater is also easy to install with included suction cups, and the temperature can be adjusted externally, so you don’t have to get your hands wet.

EHEIM Jager Aquarium Thermostat Heater (25W)

The EHEIM Jager Aquarium Thermostat Heater is a good choice for small tanks, as it’s compact and offers different power levels ranging from 25 watts and above. With its robust construction, shatterproof glass, and precise temperature control, this heater ensures a stable and comfortable environment for your fish.

Cobalt Aquatics Neo-Therm Heater (25W)

The Cobalt Aquatics Neo-Therm Heater is a slim and compact heater with a modern design. It features an easy-to-read LED display for temperature monitoring and control, and has an electronic thermostat that ranges from 68°F to 94°F, plus or minus 0.5°F in accuracy readings.

04/26/2024 09:19 pm GMT

Best Aquarium Heater for Medium Tanks (20-40 gallons)

For medium-sized tanks, it’s essential to find a heater that can maintain a consistent temperature and distribute heat equally in a larger water volume.

Here are some heaters we recommend:

Fishkeeping Advice’s Top Pick: Fluval E Series Advanced Electronic Heater

The Fluval E Series Advanced Electronic Heater is known for its advanced technology and user-friendly features. It features dual temperature sensors for accurate temperature readings and a built-in fish guard to protect fish from direct contact with the heating element.

This aquarium heater stands out due to its advanced technology, user-friendly features, and built-in safety measures.

Eheim Jager Aquarium Thermostat Heater (150W)

The Eheim Jager Aquarium Thermostat Heater is a popular choice among aquarium hobbyists due to its reliability, precision, and durability. It offers a wide range of wattage options, making it ideal if you want to choose a wattage that exactly fits your water capacity needs.

It also features precise temperature control and automatic shutoff when the water level dips too low.

Aqueon Pro Adjustable Heater (100W)

The Aqueon Pro Adjustable Heater is a durable and reliable option for medium tanks. It’s made from shatterproof and nearly indestructible plastic, and its temperature can be adjusted from 68 to 88°F.

It also has suction cups that make for easy installation and is perfect for fresh and saltwater aquariums.

04/26/2024 10:19 pm GMT

Best Aquarium Heater for Large Tanks (50-150 gallons)

Heating large tanks can be challenging, and some aquarists use more than one heater to ensure their fish tank is well heated on all ends. However, the right heater will heat your large tank and provide for all temperature and safety controls.

Here are some of our recommendations:

Fishkeeping Advice’s Top Pick: Hygger Submersible Aquarium Heater (500+ W)

The Hygger Submersible Aquarium Heater is a remarkable choice for large-sized tank. It offers a delightful combination of compact design and exceptional performance. Its sleek and fully submersible construction ensures seamless integration into your aquatic environment without occupying excessive space or causing any disruptions.

AQQA Aquarium Heater 800W for 80-220 gallons

The AQQA Aquarium Heater 800W is an excellent choice for large fish tanks ranging from 80-220 gallons. It offers safety and durability with its heat-resistant quartz glass and PC plastic cover, providing explosion-proof and shatterproof properties.

The heater is also IP68 waterproof, ensuring the safety of your fish and pets. With its intelligent automatic heating feature and external temperature controller, you can easily set and maintain the desired temperature range between 68℉-93℉ (20°C-34°C).

Cobalt Aquatics Neo-Therm Pro Heater (200-watt)

The Cobalt Aquatics Neo-Therm Pro Heater is a sleek and modern option for large-sized tanks. It’s slim profile and unique design make it an attractive choice for any aquarium setup.

With one-touch temperature control, an LED display for easy monitoring, and integrated thermal protection circuitry, it offers both style and functionality in maintaining the ideal temperature for your aquarium.

04/26/2024 11:05 pm GMT

Best Titanium Aquarium Heaters

Titanium is a strong and corrosion-resistant metal, making it an ideal choice for aquarium heaters. Unlike glass or ceramic heaters, titanium heaters are less likely to crack or break, ensuring a longer lifespan. It’s also an excellent conductor of heat, which makes it effective in maintaining stable water temperature compared to other materials.

Fishkeeping Advice’s Top Pick: INKBIRDPLUS Titanium Submersible Aquarium Heater 300W

The INKBIRDPLUS Titanium Submersible Aquarium Heater is a reliable choice for large fish tanks ranging from 50-60 gallons. Made from durable titanium tube material, this heater offers advantages such as anti-breaking, anti-explosion, and anti-corrosion properties.

The external controller with a touch button allows easy temperature adjustment and provides a clear LCD display for temperature monitoring. With a 1-year warranty, you can trust the heater‘s performance and durability.

Finnex HMH 100 Watt Digital Titanium Aquarium Heater

The Finnex Digital Heater Controller and Titanium Tube Heater offers precise temperature control and reliable performance, suitable for both freshwater and saltwater aquariums.

AquaTop Titanium Aquarium Heater (500W)

Our top pick for the best titanium aquarium heater is the AquaTop Titanium Aquarium Heater. It is a top-notch choice for aquarium enthusiasts seeking reliability and efficiency. This fully submersible heater boasts a compact design, making it easy to place in various tank setups, from freshwater to saltwater. It can handle up to 150 gallons with a temperature range of 68-92 degrees Fahrenheit.

04/26/2024 11:55 pm GMT

Tips for Maintaining Your Aquarium Heater

Just like other aquarium equipment, aquarium heaters require regular cleaning to function efficiently. Over time, algae, debris, and mineral deposits can accumulate on the heater‘s surface, compromising its performance. To clean your aquarium heater, follow these steps:

• Unplug the heater and allow it to cool down for at least 30 minutes before removing it from the tank.
• Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently wipe away any visible debris or algae from the heater‘s surface.
• For stubborn mineral deposits, use a non-abrasive cleaner or white vinegar to gently scrub the affected areas. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive tools, as they can damage the heater‘s surface.
• Rinse the heater thoroughly with clean water to remove any residue before placing it back into the aquarium.

Common Aquarium Heater Problems and Solutions

Aquarium heaters play a vital role in maintaining the right temperature in your fish tank, but like any equipment, they can encounter issues from time to time. By understanding these issues and knowing how to address them, you can ensure a safe and comfortable environment for your fish and other aquatic inhabitants.

Some of these issues include:

Overheating

One of the most common aquarium heater problems is overheating, which can occur for various reasons. Overheating can lead to severe consequences for your fish, including stress and even death. The causes of overheating include a faulty thermostat, using improper heater size, and poor water circulation.

To address these issues, replace your thermostat or, in cases when it’s built in, the heater itself. Also, ensure that you’re using the proper heater size for your aquarium water capacity.

Remember, a good rule of thumb is to use 3-5 watts per gallon or check the manufacturer’s specifications. You can improve water circulation by changing the placement of your heater to a more central position so it heats every part of the tank.

Underheating

Using a heater with insufficient wattage for your aquarium can cause the water temperature to remain consistently below the desired level. In some cases, the heater element itself may be faulty or damaged, causing it to supply less heat than expected. Here, you simply need to replace the heater with one with adequate wattage.

At times, it can be that the temperature in your room is too cold and is affecting the tank temperature. To address this, move your aquarium to a warmer room or consider insulating the tank to minimize heat loss.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Inaccurate temperature readings could mean your beloved aquatic pet is freezing, so it’s vital to ensure you can always monitor the accurate temperature of your tank. To do this, get an external thermometer and check the water temperature manually to see if it matches what your heater‘s thermostat tells you.

Also, ensure that you’re placing the thermometer away from the heater and in an area with good water circulation to obtain accurate temperature readings.

Strange Noises

A noisy heater can be distracting and indicate a potential issue with the unit. If it’s a vibrating noise, it could be caused by the heater‘s internal components or a loose heater guard. Ensure that the heater guard is securely attached and that all internal components are functioning correctly. If the noise persists, it might be time to replace the heater.

If you can hear boiling or bubbling sounds, however, it indicates the heater is overheating the water. Check the water temperature using a separate thermometer and adjust the heater settings if applicable.

Uneven Heating

Uneven heating occurs when there are pockets of hot and cold water. It’s usually caused by a lack of water circulation due to the positioning of your heater. To resolve this, ensure you place your heater in a central location, and add a pump or water head if necessary.

How To Properly Install Your Aquarium Heater

After buying the best heater for your aquarium, you still need to install it properly so that it’s effective. Here are some helpful tips:

• Install the heater near the water flow, such as close to the filter outlet or an air pump, to promote even heat distribution throughout the tank.
• Position the heater vertically or diagonally to maximize the heating surface and prevent uneven heating.
• Ensure the heater is fully submerged to prevent overheating and potential damage to the heater or aquarium inhabitants.
• Avoid placing the heater near decorations or hiding spots that can obstruct water flow and impact heat distribution.

The Right Temperature Makes All the Difference in Your Fish Tank

Choosing the right aquarium heater is essential for maintaining a comfortable and stable environment for your fish.

Luckily, whether you have a small, medium, or large tank, there’s a suitable heater option for you. Remember to maintain your heater and troubleshoot any issues to keep your fish healthy and happy. Share your thoughts in the comments and pass this guide along to fellow fish enthusiasts!