An aquarium heater is one of the crucial elements of any aquarium because health and general well-being of fish depend on it to a large extent. A submersible aquarium heater is the most popular type – it is an inexpensive and ubiquitous device that is easy to use and maintain. With so many heater models on sale, it can be quite a challenge to choose the best one. In our buyer’s guide, we’ll review ten best submersible aquarium heater models of the year 2018.
Table of Contents:
Why do You Need a Heater?
Best Aquarium Heaters of the Year 2018: a Comparative Chart
Benefits of Using a Heater in Your Aquarium
Things to Consider When Buying an Aquarium Heater
How We Picked Out the Best Models in the Category of Aquarium Heaters
Top Aquarium Heater 2018: Our Choice
1. ViaAqua 50-Watt Quartz Glass Submersible Heater
2. FLUVAL E 300 watt Advanced Electronic Heater
3. Neo-Therm Aquarium Heater – Cobalt Aquatics
4. Aqueon Pro Heater Aquarium Heater
5. EHEIM Jager Aquarium Thermostat Heater
6. Tetra HT Submersible Aquarium Heater With Electronic Thermostat
7. Songjoy Quartz Glass Submersible Aquarium Heater
8. Hydor In-Line External Heater
9. Finnex Hang-On Digital Controller Aquarium Heater
10. AquaTop Quartz Glass Submersible Heater
11. FREESEA 25/50/100/200/300 Watt Aquarium Heater with Aquarium Submersible Thermometer
12. Mylivell Aquarium Heater Submersible Auto Thermostat Heater,Fish Tank Water Heater and Adjustable Temperature with Suction Cups and Protective Cover
13. VIBIRIT Aquarium Heater,Betta Fish Tank Heater 25W
Interesting Facts about Aquarium Fish and Aquarium Heating
How to Care about an Aquarium Heater: Tips for Aquarians
How and Where to Place a Heater Correctly: Facts to Consider
Aquarium Water Temperature for Different Species of Fish
Frequently Asked Questions
Verdict and Recommendations
Why do You Need a Heater?
Unlike mammals, fish can’t maintain their body temperature; they are cold-blooded, which means that their bodies do not produce heat. That’s why fish are entirely dependent on the environmental temperature. Some species feel good at room temperature, and others (especially tropical fish) need warmer water. Even if your fish live at room temperature, you need to keep in mind that the temperature in your room is not constant. It tends to fluctuate throughout the year and even throughout the day. So, a fish aquarium heater is a must-have anyway.
Types of Aquarium Heaters
Though all heaters perform one and the same function – regulating water temperature – they can significantly differ in terms of their construction. They are chosen based on the aquarium size, fish species, and personal preferences of a fish owner. Here are the main types of these aquarium devices:
- Immersion heaters that are hanged over the tank’s wall. Their heating element is hidden in a glass tube that is placed into water.
- Submersible heaters that are fully placed right in the water. They are safer and more convenient than immersion-type heating devices.
- Filters with built-in heaters. Two-in-one devices can be convenient but beware that you won’t be able to regulate the temperature, and if a heater goes down, you’ll have to replace the entire unit.
- External in-line and in-sump filters. The first one is placed between the sump and the tank, and the second one – inside the sump. They are used for larger aquariums and are more expensive than compact devices.
Immersion and submersible heaters are most popular in the market. They are affordable, easy to use and compact. Submersible models are safer and more efficient, so they are more frequently recommended by experienced aquarists.
Best Aquarium Heaters of the Year 2018: a Comparative Chart
Image | Product | |
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Best Choice
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ViaAqua 50-Watt
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Also great
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FLUVAL E 300 Watt
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Also great
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Neo-Therm Aquarium Heater – Cobalt Aquatics
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Also great
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Aqueon Pro Heater
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Also great
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EHEIM Jager Aquarium Thermostat Heater
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Best Choice
|
Tetra HT Submersible
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Also great
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Songjoy Quartz Glass Submersible
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Also great
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Hydor In-Line External Heater
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Also great
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Aquatop Quartz Glass Submersible
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Benefits of Using a Heater in Your Aquarium
In fact, there is one major benefit of using a heater: it helps to maintain the needed temperature of water in your aquarium without any efforts. It is crucial for the life of most types of fish. So a heater can be rightfully called a mandatory element of an aquarium. Another benefit of this device is that it creates an optimal environment for tropical plants (if there are some) in the aquarium. Finally, it makes filtering of the water easier, which is also a benefit.
Things to Consider When Buying an Aquarium Heater
To make the most of using an aquarium heater one needs to choose the right type and model of a device. Thus, if you have a large aquarium, a small unit will be inefficient. In turn, a large and powerful heater will be equally inefficient and even dangerous for a small tank. Here are the main characteristics that need to be considered.
Type of a Heater
Submersible filters are most frequently chosen by relatively small home aquariums. In some cases, an external unit will be a preferable option. Choose the heater type depending on the aquarium size and location, as well as your climate zone.
Size
Apparently, the heater size and power depends on the size of an aquarium. You can roughly calculate what power you need, using a formula: 25 W per every 5 gallons of water. Thus, for a 50-gallon tank, you’ll need one 250 W heater or two 120-150 W heaters.
Ease of Maintenance
Basically, all submersible filters require minimum maintenance. All you need to do is to clean them gently from time to time and check for the signs of rust. Though modern devices are commonly quite long-lasting, you’d better to change them at least once in two or three years.
Placement
Think in advance where and how you are going to place the device. Some models can be placed only vertically; others – only horizontally. If you are placing two small submersible heaters in a large aquarium, you’d better put them in the opposite corners of the tank. If you choose a single heater, try to place it closer to the water inflow to provide even heating.
How We Picked Out the Best Models in the Category of Aquarium Heaters
To choose the most popular and most reliable aquarium heater models of the year we made a deep analysis of this segment of the market. We’ve studied several hundreds of aquarium heater reviews of real customers. It helped us to single out main pros and cons of every heater and nominate prospective leaders.
The second stage of our research was real-life testing of the chosen models. To test the samples we used two standard aquariums 15 and 30 gallons (without live fish, just with water). One of them was filled with salted water, another – with fresh water. Our goal was to estimate the build quality, design, the accuracy of temperature measuring, the consistency of water temperature and some other key parameters. As a result, seven best models were chosen. All of them are efficient and reliable enough, and all of them are highly estimated by real customers.
Top Aquarium Heater 2018: Our Choice
Here is our list of best aquarium heater models. For every brand, we tried to single out pros and cons. Read and decide what top-rated aquarium heater is the best.
ViaAqua 50-Watt Quartz Glass Submersible Heater with Built-In Thermostat
Review
This is a simple small aquarium heater that is able to maintain a fixed temperature in a 10-13-gallon tank. It is fully submersible and can be used in both salted and fresh water. It is sturdy and durable, thanks to its quartz glass shock-resistance case. But for larger aquariums, this 50-watt aquarium heater can turn out to be insufficient.
What we think
It holds temperature pretty well but not excellent. We don’t recommend it for ultra-delicate fish species that can die from the smallest fluctuations of water temperature. That said, it is a decent inexpensive options for Guppies.
PROS
- adjustable temperature;
- for salted- or freshwater aquariums;
- convenient temperature setting;
- high-quality materials: sturdy plastic and quartz glass.
CONS
- the temperature needs to be adjusted manually;
- sometimes doesn’t cope with the heating of a 13-gallon tank;
- tends to turn off before the temperature reaches the preset value.
FLUVAL E 300 watt Advanced Electronic Heater
Review
This powerful 300-watt aquarium heater can maintain constant temperature in a 100-gallon tank. It is equipped with dual sensors for quick and precise temperature measurements. The VueTech Technology indicates an increased risk of overheating with the help of a flashing LED monitor.
What we think
In our tests the device worked consistently. What is really great is that it doesn’t overheat water unlike some cheaper options. The device seems to be well-made and durable. In our opinion, it’s a good value for money.
PROS
- smart and powerful;
- dual sensors for temperature measurements;
- a readable LED display;
- easy to set and use;
- the heating element is hidden deep inside so that fish can’t contact it.
CONS
- it is a bit pricey.
Neo-Therm Aquarium Heater – Cobalt Aquatics
Review
This heater is notable not only for its design, which is really sleek. It is very handy, easy to set up and use, and efficient. The Neo-Therm heater provides precise temperature measurements and has a function of an automatic switching off if there is a risk of overheating.
What we think
Actually, we have almost nothing to complain about. The heater does its job very well; it is easy to use and holds the temperature correctly. The only small downside is its poor suction cups.
PROS
- a very accurate temperature reading and displaying;
- the “one touch” system is really handy;
- two bright indicators – the preset temperature and the current temperature;
- maintains the temperature very well;
- shatterproof and shockproof.
CONS
- can be placed only vertically.
Aqueon Pro Heater Aquarium Heater
Review
This is another terrific aquarium heater with thermostat (electronic). It is lightweight and compact but very robust and, as the manufacturer claims, 100% shatterproof and shockproof. It is a fully submersible heater; easy to use and reliable.
What we think
It is a good price quality ratio. On the plus side, it is lightweight, compact, and inexpensive. One the minus side, it is not powerful enough: it takes much time to heat up an average tank.
PROS
- an exceptional build quality;
- the accuracy of temp measurements and displaying;
- electronic thermostat;
- lifetime warranty from the manufacturer.
CONS
- tends to rust over time;
- sometimes (though rarely) doesn’t maintain the preset temperature. The solution is a more powerful option.
EHEIM Jager Aquarium Thermostat Heater
Review
The EHEIM Aquarium Heater is a great example of a reliable modern medium-priced device. It has a conventional design, sturdy shock-resistant construction, and a standard feature set. The good news is a wide range of watts available – from 50 to 300 W.
What we think
There is little to complain about. This heater is a “working horse” – reliable and consistent, though a sort of slow. It takes time for it to deliver the needed temperature, but once reached, the temp is maintained.
PROS
- easy setting;
- the proprietary TruTemp system provides more precise measurements;
- a decent build quality, shock-resistance;
- durable and reliable;
- it turns off automatically when there’s a risk of overheating.
CONS
- it is taller than usual;
- sometimes doesn’t cope with the claimed tank size.
Tetra HT Submersible Aquarium Heater With Electronic Thermostat
Review
The Tetra HT submersible aquarium heater is a fantastic low-budget option. It can seem a bit plain and too small but, on the plus side, it is a really cheap aquarium heater, which does its job well, especially in small tanks. Keep in mind that for a larger tank, you’d better buy a more powerful device.
What we think
If you are looking for a low-budget option, that’s what you need. It is recommended for unpretentious fish species that can bear minor temperature fluctuations. Despite its entry level price, the device is quite well-made.
PROS
- very affordable;
- easy to set up and use;
- fully submersible;
- a shatterproof construction;
- an electronic thermostat.
CONS
- not very durable;
- for smaller tanks only.
Songjoy Quartz Glass Submersible Aquarium Heater
Review
This 300w aquarium heater suits for heating larger aquariums – up to 50 gallons of water. Beware that other options are also available (from 100 to 500 Watt). The heater is affordable and does its job well.
What we think
We love the heater’s flexibility in terms of is placement – it allows both vertical and horizontal mounting. The device works consistently though, again, a bit slowly. The suction cups could be better.
PROS
- fully submersible;
- fast and accurate heating;
- a bright indicator;
- adjustable temperature;
- can be placed vertically and horizontally;
- one-year warranty.
CONS
- suction cups are not perfect;
- sometimes doesn’t cope with the claimed tank size.
Hydor In-Line External Heater
Review
This is a powerful aquarium heater for an external use that suits for the heating of relatively large water tanks – up to 100-120 gallons. The device is equipped with an electronic thermostat and allows precise temperature control and a 5/8 inch hose.
What we think
It works as expected; no major complaints about the heater’s performance or consistency. The two downsides, in our opinion, are its hose that doesn’t fit to any tubing and it’s a sort of cumbersome design.
PROS
- powerful and reliable;
- easy to set up and use;
- precise temperature settings;
- consistent performance.
CONS
- large and cumbersome;
- the hose attachment can require some DIY work.
Finnex Hang-On Digital Controller Aquarium Heater
Review
This is a fully submersible heater with a smart digital controller. One 100 W devise is sufficient for maintaining temperature in a 30-gallon water tank. It has a durable corrosion-free case that protects the inner parts even in salted water. A smart memory chip remembers the settings.
What we think
The heater is very easy to use and has nice extra features, such as a memory chip. But it is not ultra-precise: be prepared to the temperature fluctuations in the range of 2-3 degrees.
PROS
- compact and lightweight;
- easy to use;
- a smart digital controller;
- a memory chip.
CONS
- a bit expensive;
- not very precise.
AquaTop Quartz Glass Submersible Heater
Review
This is the smallest heater in the AquaTop family that copes with heating up of a small aquarium up to 13 gallons. The device has a simple construction: a quartz-glass outer and a mechanical dial for manual temperature setting. It is an easy to use, inexpensive, and popular model.
What we think
We love the design, build quality, and the price of this small heater. We are not so impressed with the temperature settings: the dial is not very convenient and stiff, and temperature fluctuations are sometimes quite noticeable. All in all, the heater is recommended for unpretentious fish species.
PROS
- affordable, compact, and lightweight;
- easy to use;
- a quartz-glass outer;
- fully submersible.
CONS
- the dial is inconvenient;
- inconsistent performance.
FREESEA 25/50/100/200/300 Watt Aquarium Heater with Aquarium Submersible Thermometer
Review
This water heater is created exceptionally for small tanks with up to 5-gallon capacity. For larger aquariums, there are other options by FreeSea. The power of the model is 110-120V which is not bad for small tanks. The heater comes with an automatic constant temperature function and automatic safety shut-off feature to protect against overheating. FreeSea aquarium heater can keep the temperature of your small tank anywhere between 63°F and 95°F steadily.
What we think
The first thing we ought to remind buyers is to install the heater thoroughly under the water. Whether to install it vertically or horizontally is up to you. Yet, this is a submersible model and no part must be left out of the water before plugging it. Though built with quality and durability in mind, the manufacturer provides a 12-month warranty.Â
Overall the product seems to be worth buying. Yet, the thermometer included in the purchase doesn’t work properly and can even cause harm to the living organism of the tank. And the other downside is the lack of any instructions, which is upsetting.Â
PROS
- Quality-built
- Completely submersible
- Can be installed both vertically and horizontally
- Automatic constant temperature function
- Automatic safety shut-off feature
- Ensures steady 63°F to 95°F temperature
CONS
- No instructions included
- The thermostat doesn’t work well
Mylivell Aquarium Heater Submersible Auto Thermostat Heater,Fish Tank Water Heater and Adjustable Temperature with Suction Cups and Protective Cover
Review
Made of quality quartz glass with double seal materials, this model leaves no place for worrying about a shattered tank while the polarized plug is a guarantee against electrical shock. It’s designed for aquariums with up to 20-gallon capacity and ensures steady 65°F – 93°F temperature. This 100W powerful tank heater guarantees effective operation in both saltwater and freshwater aquariums.Â
What we think
This submersible tank heater can be placed horizontally or vertically depending on your convenience. The price is good, so is the quality. However, our tests revealed the heater faces problems in maintaining the set temperature, which is definitely unbearable. The suction cups tend to loosen during the time, either. Whether to heat the water of your little fish with this heater or not is up to you. Yet, it isn’t the model we’d recommend. Â
PROS
- Adjustable temperature (65°F-93°F)
- Quality quartz glass
- Polarized plug against electrical shock
- For both saltwater and freshwater tanks
CONS
- Loose suction cups
- Doesn’t maintain temperatures well
VIBIRIT Aquarium Heater,Betta Fish Tank Heater 25W
Review
This aquarium heater is fully submersible. It’s made of quality anti-explosive, high temperature resistant, safe engineering plastic. The heater automatically adjusts and maintains the temperature between 75°F and 82°F. You don’t have to set it manually. Being energy-efficient, the heater automatically turns on and off to keep the temperature stable. The model comes with a Temperature sticker included with blue color indicating the current temperature.
What we think
Beyond any doubts, the aquarium heater is well built. Its suction power is impressive. It sucks equally well to both acrylic and glass surfaces. Taking into account the fact that the model is built for small tanks only (from 3 to 5-gallon ones), the heater is definitely powerful, too. Anyway, we can’t hide from our readers the downside that we found out about this model. The automatic temperature controller doesn’t always work smoothly and sometimes the heater runs too hot.
PROS
- Cheap price
- Anti-explosive feature
- High temperature resistant
- Good suction power
- Save for fry and turtles
CONS
- Unreliable thermostat cutoff
Interesting Facts about Aquarium Fish and Aquarium Heating
1. Though fish are mute they are extremely sensitive towards light, smells, touches, sounds, and tastes. Taste buds cover their entire body.
2. Fish are extra-sensitive towards water temperature. Even 2-3 degrees can be crucial for them and even cause death of some species.
3. Never try to heat an aquarium in a natural way by placing it under direct sunlight. It is dangerous for its inhabitants.
4. In 95% of cases, fish die because of improper feeding and housing conditions.
5. Fish are not animals, but like all living beings, they can experience stress, pain, and fear.
How to Care about an Aquarium Heater: Tips for Aquarians
Though for the most part aquarium heaters are quite easy to use and don’t require special maintenance, don’t forget that they are electric devices. It means that you need to observe basic safety precautions to prevent possible dangerous situations. Here are some tips for everyone to consider.
- Choose an aquarium heater size suitable for the size of your aquarium tank. This information is usually provided in the list of the product’s specifications.
- Read a user manual before switching on a heater. It helps to reduce risks. For example, from the Top Fin aquarium heater instructions, you’ll know how to mountain the device correctly for its maximum efficiency.
- Keep in mind that even the best saltwater aquarium heater models tend to rust over time in the salted water. If you see the signs of rusting, replace the heater. If water gets inside, it can result in a short circuit.
Also, try to prevent shattering of the aquarium. Though modern heaters are considered shock-resistant, they still can break. Breakage of a heater inside a tank can be very dangerous.
How and Where to Place a Heater Correctly: Facts to Consider
Beginners in the sphere of aquaristics often wonder where to place aquarium heater inside the tank. In fact, there can be several possible variants. An important thing here is to adhere to some principle rules.
Submersible heaters must be covered by water completely. Some models are mounted only vertically, other – horizontally, and still others can be mounted in any position. If you use several heaters (in a large tank), place them in the opposite corners of the aquarium in order to let water be heated evenly. If you don’t know what size heater for aquarium is best, read the product’s specifications.
Aquarium Water Temperature for Different Species of Fish
Different types of fish have different demands to water temperature. Some of them are more sensitive to the temperature fluctuations, and others are more immune to slight changes throughout the day. These factors need to be considered when you are choosing the fish for living in one aquarium.
Coldwater Fish
Coldwater fish are considered the least demanding, due to which they are rather popular, especially with the beginners. Well-known examples of coldwater aquarium fish are the goldfish, the coi, and guppy. These fish feel comfortable at the temperature of 65-68 F.
Warm-Water or Tropical Fish
Tropical fish can’t live in cold water. The comfortable temperature range for them is 75-80 F, which can’t be maintained a special aquarium heater. These fish are also more demanding in general, so if you have no or little experience in fish breeding, you’d better begin with coldwater species. Examples of tropical fish are the danios, barbs, angelfish, and others.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What Size Heater do I Need for My Fish Tank?
A: It depends on the two variables: the tank size and the water temperature. It is believed that a 50-watt heater is capable of raising and maintaining temperature in a 10-gallon tank. If you need to raise temperature by just 5 degrees, it will cope with 20 gallons, and to raise temperature by 15 degrees in a 10-gallons tank, you may need a more powerful 100-watt heater. That is why the best approach is to read the specifications of the chosen model and the manual before using it.
Q: How Many Watts do I Need for a 65 Gallon Tank?
A: 150-200 watts should be enough. Anyway, don’t ignore information from the manufacturer and the user manual.
Q: How to Tell if Aquarium Heater is Broken?
A: When you buy a new heater you want to make sure it works properly. That said, it is difficult if no impossible to detect the precise water temperature by feel. That is why the best way to know if a heater is broken or not is to use a separate aquarium thermometer.
Q: How Long Do Aquarium Heaters Last?
A: The lifespan of various heaters can vary, but all of them need to be replaced, at least, once in 1-2 years. Even high-quality heaters tend to rust over time. To increase the life of your heater follow the manufacturer’s instruction and don’t forget about gentle regular cleaning.
Q: Can You Put A Heater In A Plastic Fish Tank?
Again, the best approach is to follow the manufacturer’s directions. Commonly, it is safe to use a heater in a plastic tank: its temperature is not too high to damage plastic or make it melt. That said, it is recommended to avoid direct contact of a heater with plastic walls of the aquarium.
Q: What Temperature Should A Freshwater Aquarium Be?
It depends on the fish species living in it. Most freshwater fish feel good at the temperature 75 through 80 degrees (F).
Q: Can aquarium heater kill fish?
A: Aquarium heaters are safe for fish as long as they are used correctly and work, as they should. Unfortunately, there are recorded cases when heaters killed fish for various reasons. The most frequent reason is overheating. Aquarium fish are sensitive to the water temperature, so 5-10 degrees are critical for them. Another possible reason is injury. When a heater is not hidden under the substrate properly, fish can bump into it and get a burn. To minimize the risk measure the water temperature with a standalone thermometer every day and always place a heater in the aquarium as recommended.
Q: Can aquarium heater touch gravel?
A: Setting up an aquarium heater properly is mandatory. An aquarium heater must never touch the tank gravel, glass, or a decoration. Otherwise, a temperature gradient will occur in the glass, and it will cause the tank glass to shatter. Needless to say, both your little fish and you will be exposed to electrocution, and a fire hazard will appear. Additionally, when you are setting up a new heater, let it sit in the water for around half an hour before you plug it in. This way the heater will get time to acquire temperature equilibrium and not shatter because of the difference of temperatures when turned on.
Verdict and Recommendations:Â Aquarium Heaters
We’ve reviewed ten great models of aquarium heaters. Your final choice will depend on your particular needs. For example, the Tetra aquarium heater, as well as the Top Fin aquarium heater, are great for small tanks.
For a larger aquarium, you’ll better choose a large aquarium heater like FLUVAL E 300 Watt. If you are looking for a good 50-gallon aquarium heater, consider Aqueon Pro Heater, which has an excellent build quality and a lifetime warranty from the manufacturer.
If you are looking for the most affordable option for a small tank, try the ViaAqua heater – it is cheap, effective, and does its job really well. Finally, the best external device is an electric heater from Hydor – powerful and easy to regulate.
Sources:
https://aquariawise.com/how-to-place-a-heater-in-aquarium/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aquarium_heater
https://www.thesprucepets.com/top-submersible-aquarium-heaters-2925818
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