48 x 18 x 12 Heater(s)

[LiQuOrIcE]

Well, im picking up my new tank tomorrow!

Currently i have a 30 x 15 x 12 with a 100w Visitherm which keeps the water lovely!

Now, im wondering weather to get the 200W version & have it angled in the middle of the tank or use 2 100w ones 1/4 of the way in on both ends.

Many thanks

 

[waterwatereverywhere]

I use two Visitherms in mine; the way I see it, it means that if one fails at least I have some backup which would keep the water reasonably warm. I've got a sump which houses both of mine, though - the only drawback I could see is that it would mean you'd have two heaters to hide.

 

[jumpman]

i've got a 48 x 24 x18 which has two 200watt each end if that helps.

jump

 

[Cheese Specialist]

Congrats on the tank!!

As you know I have the same tank as you are getting, I have a visi-therm 250watt which will be more than enough (does from 130litre-250litre, yours is 160).

It cost me £15 from Pets at Home

 

[aberdeen aquarist]

the theory goes that if you use 2 heaters then you'll have one to rely on if the other breaks down, so i'd say go for 2 smaller ones rather than 1 large one.
HTH.

 

[thecichlidaddict]

I use one 250w heater in my 48x18x24 aquarium. It does not matter if you place it in the middle or at the end, on an angle or vertical or horizontal.

Many people prefer the redundency of two heaters. I make sure I purchase a high quality brand in the first place and go with just one for reasons of cost and avoidance of clutter in the tank. I would go with a pair of 150w heaters if I did choose to go with two.

Heaters failing is not an issue. If your heater fails the water will only cool down to room temperature, not a big deal even if you keep your home cool. Tropical fish can survive temperatures as low as 65, sometimes lower, but not for extended periods of time. The more drastic heater problem is when it gets stuck 'on' and overheats the aquarium. This will not happen if you invest in a decent product in the first place.

 

[silver]

I've always just used one in my 48 x 21 x 12 and it's always kept the temp. really consistant!!

Good luck in whatever you choose!

 

[LiQuOrIcE]

cheers guys, got a 250w visitherm, will keep the 100 as a spare that will keep it going til i can get a new one if it goes wrong.