Heaters

[peterp]

Hi,
wondering which would be preferred, to get one large 250-300 watt heater or 2 smaller 150's? This will be to heat a 75-100 gal tank.

 

[AtodaJ]

I'd go with 2 heaters. Depending on filtration strength it probably won't make much of a difference on how effective 1 vs 2 heaters are at actually heating the aquarium. The upside, however, is if you have 2 and 1 of them craps out... you still have 1 that works so your baby's won't freeze before you notice anything wrong!

 

[Scottw68TN]

I have one set to 78 and a back-up set to 77 so it only kicks in when the other can't handle the load. (or as a back-up as Atodaj said)

 

[peterp]

Thanks,
I think using 2 makes sense and does provide a backup incase one stops heating.

 

[loganj]

It also gives you more of a buffer zone if the thermostat hangs up in the on position. You might, if you want a really good heater, look at the Pro Heat II by Won. This is a titanium heater tube with a separate temp sensor. It also has a digital temp readout on the control unit. I've been using one in a 180g reef for a while and it has functioned flawlessly so far...I'd buy another one. For glass heaters...Pro Heat, Visi Therm, Ebo Jager...all good units.

 

[peterp]

Exactly, I recently learned that lesson, no more "budget" heaters for me. :x

Lost my tank when a cheap Ha**n stuck on, while I was away for the Labour day weekend.

Sigh, took the opportunity to completely tear down and clean the tank, it is now busy cycling.