More on Discus Tank Heating Equipment

Discus flourish in warm water. In this article, we’ll help you navigate your options about discus tank heaters. You’ll find that choosing your heater is simple and easy!

WHY DOES MY DISCUS AQUARIUM NEED A HEATER?

Since discus are tropical fish, they need a heater to keep their tank’s water in the correct temperature range. The heater ensures that your tank’s water will remain at a constant temperature throughout the day, regardless of whether your room cools down or heats up.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN GLASS AND TITANIUM HEATERS?

Glass heaters have been used for years, and they work well. However, be careful if you have large discus, which can knock them around. Also, keep in mind that you will need to put your hand in the tank to adjust the temperature since glass heaters have thermostats mounted on top. If you have many tanks, this process can be laborious.

Discus Aquarium with Glass Heater

Titanium or metal heaters provide a more even warming of water. They also let you adjust the tank’s temperature via external controls, and you’ll have no need to put your hand into the tank!

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN SUBMERSIBLE AND PARTIALLY SUBMERSIBLE HEATERS?

Submersible heaters can stay completely below the water. Partially submersible heaters have the control above the water, but the heating coils are submerged. Because you can place a submersible heater horizontally along your tank’s bottom, submersible heaters are best. Placing a submersible heater horizontally across your tank’s bottom helps keep the tank’s temperature uniform, and the heater will not be exposed during partial water changes. Remember, though, to unplug the heater before doing water changes. If the heater is left on while the coil is above the water, the tube will overheat and may crack when you refill the tank.

HOW MUCH POWER DOES MY HEATER NEED?

The power required for your heater depends on the difference between your room’s temperature and your tank’s temperature. If your room is never more than 8 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit cooler than your target tank temperature, a heater of roughly 2.5 watts per gallon is fine. If the difference is higher, up to 5 watts (or more) per gallon may be necessary. Remember that the heater you use needs to consistently keep the tank at its optimum temperature, even when the room is at its coldest point. The tank’s temperature should not change during the day.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN IN TANK HEATERS AND EXTERNAL HEATERS?

Many people prefer using external heaters when possible. External heaters prevent your fish from getting burned and make it easier for you to adjust the water temperature.

Aquarium Heater

WHAT ARE POSSIBLE PROBLEMS WITH HEATERS, AND HOW SHOULD I RESPOND?

One of the most common problems is the contact that turns the heater on and off becomes permanently stuck. If it is stuck in the on position, your tank can become very hot and damage your fish. Because of this risk, you don’t want to use heaters that are too large for your tank. Two smaller heaters can be used instead.

Another potential problem is that heaters can burn your discus, especially at night when discus might lean onto them. Sometimes, burns can even be fatal. However, you can prevent your fish from being burned. You can buy a heater that has a built-in guard, or you can buy a separate guard to fit over your existing heater.

QUESTIONS

What type of heater would you like to use for your discus tank?
What are different types of heaters available?
What other questions do you have about setting up your discus aquarium, and what other Learning Center articles do you want to explore?

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More on Discus Tank Heating Equipment