Standard Heater

[flix_cw]

My new 2ft tank came with a Juwel 100W heater. 2 questions:

1. Is 100W too much for just a 2ft tank? I know it's no use having a 25W heater in a 4ft tank since it just won't be able to keep the temperature up. So I assume a 100W heater with a thermostat will just heat the water very quickly and then switch off, yes? It won't overheat?

2. The heater that came is actually longer than the tank height, so i've had to angle it at about 30 degrees or so. I'd much prefer it directly upright, but that means the foot of the heater will actually be an inch or so into the substrate. Is this a big no no? If so, why?

Just to clarify, here's a pic of the heater into the substrate (tank is empty):

 

[ZoddyZod]

100w is fine for a 2 foot tank, probably about the correct size in fact. You are right in saying that the bigger the wattage the quicker the heater will bring the water up to temperature and the shorter it will be on for each time the temp drops.

many people actually suggest angling the heater so that it distributes the heat more evenly. I'm not sure what the risk would be of putting it in the substrate but since I've not seen it done before I wouldn't recommend it!

 

[fluttermoth]

1: That size heater is fine for your tank.

2: It is a big no no to have any of the heater buried or even touching the substrate. The reason being that it means the water can't flow properly around it. That could lead to the heater getting too hot in some parts and cracking. It's not likely, but it is a possibilty...

 

[weezawoo]

I'm not sure where the level of water will come to, but there should be a line on the heater saying minimum level. This is the lowest you can have the water come to. You might be able to move the heater up slightly and have it straight. Its hard to see in the pic where the water will come to.

 

[redbug]

I would also suggest having the heater on an angle.
I have mine placed horizontally near the bottom of the tank