the right heater

[Yao]

I'm trying to figure out the right temp for my fish. For a while it was at 80/82+, but I was afraid the fish weren't getting enough oxygen, so I'm trying to maintain it at 78. I have a separate thermometer for the temp but my heater just has a high and low dial. It's really hard to get the temp to be completely consistent, and I feel like it gets a little colder at night. Is it better to maintain it at a higher temp or a lower temp? Should I try a better thermometer? Is there a trick to how to do this without making me paranoid and having to check and adjust the thermometer ALL the time?

 

[LittlePuff]

Maintain it at the lower temp

Kim

 

[Tiffi]

Buy another heater with "easy" dial would probably be better and more comforting .

I would consider the Visi-Therm Stealth. I've only heard good things about it.

It's on sale at big Als right now (with free thermometer) 8O :

http://www.bigalsonline.com/catalog/product.xml?product_id=30053;category_id=1733;pcid1=3231;pcid2=

 

[Fishyfanatic]

I second the Stealth recommendation. Great heater.

 

[Lonewolfblue]

I maintain mine between 76-78. Lower temp is better. 82+ is too much for some fish.

 

[greenmaji]

the heater should be fine.. most tropical fish should do well at 78 degrees F.
I would never trust any heater to maintain the temperature without me checking the thermometer at least at feeding time.. once you get your heater dialed in its the same has having a fancy heater.. I say as long as your heater has 5watts per gallon you should keep it and save your money for a digital thermometer that will set off an alarm when the temperature is too far off, if the temperature is concerning you alot.. HTH