Angled tank heaters??

[KimmiA]

Hi! So I just bought a 50watt heater for my 10gal. The instructions say to place it horizontally or vertically, but when I look at tank pics on this site, the majority of the heaters are positioned at an angle. Is there a benefit to this position of the heater on the tanks? Or is this just a preference?

[bobzond]

It is usually due to height limitations. It should probably be vertical per instructions.

[mohican]

People place them like that to get a "better heated surface area" per say; but it doesn't matter. I like mine vertically and near the surface so I can adjust the temperature without getting my hand wet.

[aqua_chem]

They're easier to hide sometimes if placed horizontal.

[vaquero]

Originally Posted by aqua_chem

They're easier to hide sometimes if placed horizontal.

My heater is slightly at an angle, it is hidden inside of the log at the right in the picture. I hated seeing it in my tank so i had to hide it away from view, and I can still get to the temp control on top. I do however have the temp up more than normal so the heat can get to the water being it is encased in the wood.