Heaters and Chillers: Important Additions to Any Tank

Heating Your Aquarium
Heating an aquarium is accomplished by using aquarium heaters that are specifically designed for that purpose. Aquarium heaters raise the water temperature to a desired level and then prevent it from falling below that temperature. A thermometer is required to get an accurate temperature reading, even if the heater has degrees indicated.

Each of the different tropical fish species has a temperature range they prefer, but most fall between 75-80º F. It is more important to keep the tank the same temperature day and night, rather than which actual degree is chosen. A variance of only one to three degrees is enough to cause serious health problems for inhabitants. Normally, 3-5 watts per gallon is sufficient when choosing a heater. In high flow rates, wet/dry filters, or in an environment that gets below 55º, 5-8 watts per gallon is suggested. Remember to include the gallons in the sump when using wet/dry filters. Many of the newer heaters like the Hydor Theo Heater or Tetra Submersible Heater are very dependable, completely submersible and allow you to place the heater in a variety of locations or depths in the tank.

Important Note: Aquarium heaters must be unplugged during water changes. If the heater is exposed to air, then back to water while it is on, it can crack or explode.

Using a Chiller
Sometimes devices like large UV sterilizers, metal halide lights or water pumps may heat the water to a temperature higher than desired. In these instances a chiller may be necessary.

Chillers are designed to decrease temperature while preventing water that is being cooled, from coming in contact with any corrosive materials. All the chillers we offer utilize environmentally friendly coolants. All units come with temperature controllers that measure your aquarium's temperature and adjust it to the desired point.

If a chiller is needed for an aquarium it should be planned into the system as early as possible. The units used for cooling the water need to be placed in an area that provides sufficient ventilation away from the container that you are cooling or your chiller can be heating the water you want to cool as the unit expels heat. There are two different styles of water chillers. The drop-in styles, like the Prime Drop-In Chiller, have a cooling coil that is placed right in the sump without the need for additional plumbing. The second type of chiller is the in-line chillers, like the Arctica Titanium Chiller. These chillers have the water plumbed right through the unit which can allow you to place the unit in a location away from the tank to help dissipate the heat that is generated.

Heater/Chiller Controllers
For control of heating and cooling, add a heater/chiller controller like the Ranco Temperature Controller, or the Arctica Titanium Chiller.

Providing a stable temperature environment for your fish is essential to their health and well-being, as well as saving you time and money spent on medications.

Why cool your aquarium?

Planted Aquarium The same type of equipment requirements that are used in a mini-reef aquarium may be needed for your planted aquarium as well. Plants in general prefer a cooler temperature, but the roots like to be warm. The addition of a cable heater is a great way to heat your planted aquarium and will really improve plant growth. Mini-reef Aquarium Equipment requirements needed for reef aquariums most often add heat to the system. This heat exchange can easily get above desired temperature levels and will need to be cooled in order for inhabitants to thrive. In most reef environments a temperature of 75-78ºF is preferred. While temperatures above this can be tolerated, temperatures above 80ºF should be avoided as health problems can occur. With adequate circulation, a fish-only marine aquarium can handle temperatures above 80ºF. Remember that temperature control is one of the most critical factors in maintaining your tank's health. A daily fluctuation of just a couple of degrees is very stressful for the fish and will increase the incidence of disease and death. Take the temperature of your tank at its highest point late in the afternoon with all of the equipment running. That temperature should be the minimum setting on your heater. If the temperature is too high for your fish then add a chiller. Providing quality heating and cooling for your tank is one of the best investments you can make for the overall health of your tank.