Heater(s) in a 46 gallon bowfront tank

[auribe14]

I am setting up a new 46 gallon bowfront tank for goldfish. I will be using both an hob and undergravel filters.

The thermostat in our house is set for differing temps, so I figured I should use a heater to maintain the water temp in the rank at night.

My question is will one centrally located bigger heater be enough or should I go with two smaller heaters in the back corners (near the lift tubes)?

 

[librarygirl]

I think one should be fine. Goldfish are coldwater fish so they won't need much in the way of heat.

 

[Dwohlge1]

What type of Goldfish? A lot of hobbyists feel Fancies do better in 72-74 degree water. It also helps them digest faster which can aid with bouancy issues.

If its a comet or a common I wouldn't worry unless your house temp fluctuates drastically.

You really only need 1 heater rated for the size of your tank for goldfish because the temp never really need to be much higher than room temp. Unless your house is 65 F degrees or something crazy.

 

[jlk]

Good advice on heaters! This is just a suggestion-please do your research first- but you may want to reconsider the UGF before you actually stock/cycle your tank. Opinions vary on UGFs but i have found UGFs & goldfish do not mix very well especially do to goldies messiness. The filth that accumulates under the plates can become quite a nightmare & the only option for cleaning under them is ripping your tank apart & draining it & flushing it well. Live plants do not work very well either. I would recommend adding a 2nd hob/canister & skipping the UGF altogether. Good luck with your new tank & your goldies!!