Overpowered Heater?

[calebsg]

Hi,
I have a 40 Gallon aquarium and a 200 watt heater, and I can't get the temperature below 76 (trying to run a cool-water tank). House sits between 68-70F and I have the heater turned down as low as it goes.

Is this a heater problem? Or is it overpowered? I know 200W is a lot but I thought it just meant that it would heat up faster.

Also, can any submersible heater be placed horizontally in the aquarium? or do they only work horizontally if it specifically says so (the packaging on this one said horizontal was ok).

Caleb

 

[Rodders]

200w is the max you can run on that tank size.
Maybe you'll have to drop it to a 150W.

 

[Rooster]

Its NOT a Wattage thing.... its the thermostat.

 

[Dolfan]

Like Rooster said its probably a bad thermostat. Another thing that could be causing the heat is really strong lights. If you have a well insulated tank and really strong lights this can add 5 degrees or so. Most reccomend 5 watts per gallon...so your 200 watt heater is perfect for your 40 gal tank. Also make sure you position the heater so water circulates like near the filter input or output.
I'm pretty sure most fully submersible heater can be placed in any position, unless it maybe said on side of box to "Do Not Use Horizontaly". Good luck.

 

[calebsg]

Its NOT a Wattage thing.... its the thermostat.

Yeah, that's what I'm wondering. The tank is square and 12" deep or so (coffee table aquarium) and the heater is near the powerhead so circulation isn't a problem. Currently I have it angled up so that the top sticks out of the water so that I can adjust the temp better.

The tank is acrylic, maybe 3/8" thick (one piece molded) and I can't get it below 76.

Thanks,
Caleb

ps. forgot to mention -- it's lit by the ambient lighting of the room, so no strong lights at play...