Do I really need a heater?

[Anna94]

Do I really need a heater in my tank? It doesn't really get in the 60's in our house. The fish I currently have are cardinal tetras, platys, and an oto. I might get another oto and I will be getting either the GloFish tetras or the GloFish danios as soon as my LFS gets them in stock.

 

[ImACoolguy]

Part of the reason for a heater is temperature stability. It prevents fluctuations. Given you have tropical fish it would be suggested. You also didn't list the temperature of your tank without the heater. If it's under 75F you should definitely have one.

 

[Potluck]

Yes you should, as your tank should be 75-78 degrees, the consistent temp is the most important any fluctuation in the temp can kill your fish