46g Heater question

[jonatheber]

I've got a Fluval M series that doesn't seem to be keeping up with the temperature setting, so it is probably getting ready to fail. I've got a 46 gallon tank and I am looking at the Fluval e Series heater. I am wondering if it is a bad idea to get the 300W, even though the 200W is likely plenty strong enough. I found a 300W online that is only 4 dollars more than the 200W.

 

[Colin_T]

Is the tank in a cold room?
If yes it will cause the heater to work harder and not reach maximum temperature.

Does the tank have a coverglass on top?
Does the tank have a sheet of polystyrene under the base or on the back and sides?
If not, then most of the heat will be going out and warming up the room. Buy some sheets of polystyrene from a pet shop and tape it on the outside of the back and sides of the tank.
Put a coverglass on the tank, use 4, 5 or 6mm thick glass for the coverglass.

 

[StevenF]

Generally electric heaters don't gradually get week. They typically just suddenly fail to produce any heat or overheat the tank. putting a glass cover of the tank will minimize evaporation which will cools the water. Adding foot sheets to the sides or under the tank will minimize thermal losses through the gas.

 

[Fishiemang]

Put an air stone across the rear of the tank and.place the heater next to or.behind the bubbles. This.circulates the warmed water better, and.decreases heater need. Or you can place it next to your pickup tube for your filter. Either way, it circulates the water better, thus reducing heater on time, extending the life of it.

As to the wattage, the higher wattage heater will just warm the water faster, and.run less, but will.cost the same or more to use. It will work tho. Prolly not a huge cost difference, as I have 70 watters all the way up to a 300watter....so....it will work.