Skip to content
ankily
Log in

Heating

Heaters

Types:

  • Standard submersible pump: the most common, inexpensive, and reliable
  • Flow heater (in-line): Installed in the external filter tube; not visible in the aquarium
  • Titanium heater: corrosion-resistant, for marine use or hard water

Recommended brands: Eheim Jäger (the most reliable), Aquael Comfort, Fluval E

Rule of thumb: 2–3 W per liter (150 L → 300–450 W heater)

Caution: Never remove the heater from the water while it is plugged in → the glass will crack. Heaters may "get stuck" in the ON position → lethal overheating. Use a separate thermometer to verify the temperature.

Chillers

To:

  • Marine Aquariums in Warm Climates
  • Neocaridina shrimp in the summer (>24°C is too hot)
  • Cold-water Aquariums (Koi, Goldfish) in Warm Climates

Types:

  • Compressor chiller: the most efficient one; connect it to the filter circuit
  • Evaporative fans: inexpensive, limited effect (3–5°C), increase evaporation
  • Peltier modules: moderate cooling effect, for nano aquariums

PUMPS AND CIRCULATION

Circulation pumps (powerheads)

Purpose: To create water flow in the aquarium. In a marine reef tank, this is essential for corals to receive food and oxygen.

Required flow:

  • Freshwater: 5–10 times the volume per hour
  • Marine FOWLR: 10–20x
  • Marine reef: 20–40x (with alternating current)