If you’re looking for a way to keep your reef tank at the perfect temperature, a heater is a must-have accessory. But with so many options on the market, it can be tough to know where to start. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the factors you should consider when shopping for a heater for your reef tank.
First and foremost, it’s important to select a heater that’s appropriate for the size of your tank. A heater that’s too small won’t be able to maintain the temperature you need, while a heater that’s too big may overheat your tank and harm your marine life. Additionally, you’ll want to look for a heater that’s well-made and reliable, with safety features like automatic shut-off and temperature controls.
When shopping for a heater for your reef tank, you’ll also want to consider the type of heater that’s best suited to your needs. Some heaters are submersible, while others are designed to be mounted externally. You’ll also want to think about the wattage of your heater, as different tanks will have different heating requirements.
Are you tired of constantly adjusting your reef tank’s temperature? Do you want to provide the best possible environment for your marine life? If so, investing in a quality heater can make all the difference. Keep reading to learn more about the options available and find the perfect heater for your reef tank today!
10 Best Heater For Reef Tank
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Ideal for maintaining water temperature in a reef aquarium.
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2
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Ideal for maintaining water temperature in medium to large saltwater or freshwater aquariums between 60-120 gallons.
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3
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Ideal for controlling temperature with dual sensors and outlets, suitable for various applications including HVAC systems and fermentation.
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4
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Ideal for maintaining consistent water temperature in aquariums or tanks housing fish, shrimp, or reef organisms.
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5
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This product is ideal for heating aquarium water, suitable for both saltwater and freshwater environments.
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6
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This product is ideal for maintaining consistent water temperature in a saltwater aquarium.
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7
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Ideal for heating and maintaining water temperature in aquariums, suitable for both freshwater and saltwater environments.
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8
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This product is ideal for maintaining proper water temperature in marine and freshwater aquariums.
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9
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Ideal for maintaining stable water temperature in freshwater and saltwater aquariums.
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10
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Ideal for maintaining optimal water temperature in freshwater and saltwater aquariums, with a digital LED controller and automatic shut-off system.
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1. Innovative Marine Helio Ptc Smart Reef Aquarium Heater (1000 Watt – [2 X 500w])
Introducing the Helio PTC Smart Aquarium Heater, a reliable and efficient solution for maintaining the optimal temperature in your aquarium. This heater is rated for aquarium sizes ranging from 170 to 250 gallons, based on a 10°F water temperature increase from the current ambient temperature.
The heating element dimensions are L 15.25" x D .80", while the remote sensor dimensions are L 2.3" x D .31". The Helio Smart Controller dimensions are L 3.13" x W 1.31" x H 5". The Helio PTC Smart Controller is equipped with several specifications that ensure the proper functioning of the heater. The factory preset temperature is 77°F, with a factory preset low alarm of 74°F and a high alarm of 80°F. The accuracy of the Helio PTC Smart Controller is < ±1°F, with a resolution of 0.1°F and a calibration range of ±9°F.
The temperature set range is between 59° – 95°F, while the low alarm general range is between 57° – 93°F. The low alarm minimum range is -2°F from the set temperature, and the high alarm general range is between 60° – 96°F. The high alarm minimum range is +1°F from the set temperature. With these specifications, you can be sure that your aquarium will be kept at the optimal temperature for your fish and plants to thrive.
Installation and setup of the Helio PTC Smart Aquarium Heater is easy and straightforward. The heater can be submerged in the water, and the Helio Smart Controller can be mounted on the outside of the aquarium. The controller's LED screen displays the current temperature and provides easy access to adjust the temperature or set the alarms.
- Suitable for large aquarium sizes ranging from 170 to 250 gallons
- Precise temperature control with a factory preset temperature of 77°F and < ±1°F accuracy
- Easy to install and set up with a user-friendly Helio Smart Controller
- Low and high alarm settings ensure that the aquarium temperature remains within optimal limits
- – May not be suitable for smaller aquarium sizes
- – Requires an electrical outlet near the aquarium for operation
2. Hygger Reef Tank Heater With External Controller
The fully submersible aquarium heater is now equipped with overheat protection and memory function. It automatically shuts off when it overheats and resets when it cools down, ensuring the safety of your aquatic pets. The heater is made of premium quartz that is double-sealed with a black protective guard, making it resistant to explosion and corrosion. It prevents fish and other livestock from getting punched and scalded.
The build-in external IC temp controller features a blue LED digital number that shows the real-time water temperature, making it easy to read. The heat indicator lights up in red when the fish heater starts to heat and turns yellow once it reaches the set temperature. The temperature accuracy is +/- 1°F, ensuring that the water temperature is always at the desired level.
Setting the temperature is now easier without getting your hands wet. The temperature can be precisely adjusted from 61 to 90°F (16°C ~ 32°C) by pressing the set button to the desired temperature. It blinks for 3 seconds and begins to work. This 500 Watt Aquarium Heater is suitable for tank capacity of 60-120 gallon freshwater and saltwater aquariums and voltage of 110-120V.
- Equipped with overheat protection and memory function
- Made of premium quartz that is double-sealed with a black protective guard
- Build-in external IC temp controller with blue LED digital number for easy reading
- Temperature accuracy of +/- 1°F
- Easy to set the temperature without getting your hands wet
- Suitable for tank capacity of 60-120 gallon freshwater and saltwater aquariums and voltage of 110-120V
3. Smarttemp Dual Sensor Thermostat Controller
The ITC-608T temperature controller has received the US ETL Certificate Listed, ensuring its quality and safety. With a maximum power of 1800W, this controller provides reliable and efficient performance for a wide range of applications.
Equipped with calibration support, compressor delay, and reset setting values, the ITC-608T is easy to set up and operate. It features dual display windows for PV and SV, and can display temperature readings in either Centigrade or Fahrenheit degree. Additionally, the compressor delay function provides added protection for cooling devices, and the controller can save the original settings in case of accidental power-off.
The ITC-608T comes with waterproof temperature sensors that can measure temperatures ranging from -40~212°F (-40~100°C). It can function as a temperature controller, humidity controller, temperature humidity controller, and dual temperature controller, making it a versatile tool for a variety of applications.
This temperature and humidity controller can be used for home brewing (refrigerator), fermenting, greenhouse, terrarium, reptile-keeping, mushroom cultivation, meat storage, and cooking. It has a maximum loading capacity of 120V 15A 1800W.
- ETL Certificate Listed for quality and safety
- Powerful with a maximum power of 1800W
- Easy to set up and operate with calibration support, compressor delay, and reset setting values
- Dual display windows for PV and SV with Centigrade or Fahrenheit degree display
- Compressor delay function for added protection
- Can save original settings in case of accidental power-off
- Waterproof temperature sensors with a wide temperature control range
- Versatile, can function as a temperature controller, humidity controller, temperature humidity controller, and dual temperature controller
- Suitable for various applications such as home brewing, fermenting, greenhouse, terrarium, reptile-keeping, mushroom cultivation, meat storage, and cooking
4. Inkbird Pro Temp Controller For Aquariums
The Two Heating Plug is a temperature controller with on/off control mode, designed for aquariums and fish tanks. It does not have a cooling function and both plugs can control heating. The product comes with a suction tray for easy installation on the water tank. It is suitable for fresh water, sea water aquariums, coral cylinders, ornamental shrimp, and tropical fish due to its powerful corrosion protection function. The device has a dual time cycle setting that allows for different daytime and night temperatures to be set within 24 hours, according to the needs of animals and plants. The plug-and-play product has a dual liquid crystal display that shows the temperature in Celsius or Fahrenheit. Additionally, it has different functions, such as temperature calibration, over-temperature sensor fault alarm, and a maximum output load of 1100W (110V).
- Easy to install with the suction tray
- Suitable for different types of aquariums and fish tanks
- Dual time cycle setting for different temperature needs
- LED display screen for easy temperature reading
- Different functions including temperature calibration and over-temperature sensor fault alarm
- Powerful corrosion protection function
- – Does not have a cooling function
5. Aquarium Heater With Led Display & Controller
The Explosion-proof Quartz Glass Aquarium Heater is a durable and safe heating device for aquariums. It is made of explosion-proof quartz glass material and a high-temperature resistant nickel-chromium heating wire with silicon carbide heat conduction, ensuring faster water heating and long-lasting performance. It takes only 2 hours to heat 1℃. The shell is made of high-temperature resistant PC material, which effectively protects the fish from scalding.
The heater has a temperature range of 59℉ to 93℉ and comes with an automatic heating feature. The heating rod has a built-in thermometer, which automatically heats up when the water temperature is lower than the set temperature by 1℉ and stops heating when the water temperature is consistent with the set temperature. The temperature display can be converted from Fahrenheit to Celsius by pressing and holding for 5 seconds.
The LED external controller is equipped with an indicator light and a digital display screen that shows the current water temperature and preset temperature. The number above the controller indicates the current water temperature, and the number below is the set temperature. A red light indicates heating, blue lights indicate constant temperature, and a flashing blue light indicates that the heater is not fully submerged. Please note that the controller is not waterproof and should be kept away from water.
The controller comes with a memory function, which retains the temperature settings even when the power is shut off, so there is no need to worry about pets when going out. The heating rod is equipped with dry burning-resistant protection and will automatically power off when it is 5cm above the water surface, displaying an 'E1' message on the controller. Once submerged in the water again, the heater will return to normal, without requiring the power to be unplugged or the controller to be reset.
The controller can be installed with adjustable hooks, which can be hung on the back of the fish tank without the need for any tools. The size of the hook can be adjusted according to the thickness of the fish tank, making it very safe and reliable. AQQA products come with a 1-year warranty, so customers can rest assured when purchasing this product.
- Made of explosion-proof quartz glass material for durability and safety
- Temperature range of 59℉ to 93℉ with automatic heating feature
- LED external controller with indicator light and digital display screen
- Memory function and dry burning-resistant protection
- Adjustable hooks for easy installation and safety
- Comes with a 1-year warranty for customer satisfaction
- – Controller is not waterproof and should be kept away from water
6. Hygger Titanium Submersible Aquarium Heater With Thermostat
The Fully Submersible Fish Tank Heater is a must-have for any aquarium enthusiast. It can be easily mounted horizontally with the help of the two suction cups that come with it. It is recommended to place the heater near a strong water flow to ensure that the whole aquarium is at the same temperature. The heater comes with a separate controller that allows you to easily adjust the temperature from low to high without having to take out the heater from the aquarium.
The Fish Tank Heater is made from heavy-duty, durable Titanium which makes it completely shatterproof. Being anticorrosion, it is perfect for freshwater, saltwater aquariums, and reef tanks. Its pin-point temperature control system comes with a built-in external electronic thermostat and a dual LCD display screen that shows the temperature setting in either Celsius or Fahrenheit. The up button shows the aquarium's current temperature, while the down button shows the set temperature. The heater stops heating when the temperature rises to your desired temperature. The heating temperature range is 32 to 104°F, with a control accuracy of +/- 0.5° C.
The Automated Shut-Off System is another great feature of this Fish Tank Heater. You can set the temperature to your desired degree of heat, and it will automatically shut off when it reaches the designated temperature of your setting. The heater has a voltage of 110V and is recommended for aquariums with 20 to 45 gallons of water capacity. It is 10.7 inches in length and has a power of 200W.
- Fully submersible in water horizontally with 2 suction cups for easy mounting on the tank
- Shatterproof and anticorrosive, making it perfect for freshwater, saltwater aquariums, and reef tanks
- Pinpoint temperature control system with built-in external electronic thermostat and dual LCD display
- Automated shut-off system for added safety
- Recommended for aquariums with 20 to 45 gallons of water capacity
7. Shatterproof Neo-Therm Pro Heater For Aquariums.
The NEO-THERM PRO heaters are designed to provide accurate and reliable temperature control for aquariums. With an electronic thermostat, these heaters can maintain a temperature range from 68°F up to 94°F with an accuracy of ±0.5°F, ensuring a stable and comfortable environment for fish and aquatic plants.
In addition, the AUTO SHUT-OFF circuitry feature is included to prevent overheating, making these heaters safe to use. The SHATTERPROOF outer casing also makes the NEO-THERM PRO heaters virtually indestructible, ensuring they withstand accidental drops and bumps.
The LED DISPLAY feature of the NEO-THERM PRO heaters allows users to easily monitor the temperature of their aquarium. The display shows both the Set Tamp and Tank Temp simultaneously, providing real-time updates on the temperature. These heaters are also fully submersible, making them easy to install and use in any aquarium setup.
- Accurate temperature control
- AUTO SHUT-OFF circuitry for safety
- SHATTERPROOF outer casing for durability
- LED DISPLAY for easy temperature monitoring
- FULLY Submersible for easy installation
8. Orlushy 300w Fish Tank Heater + Thermometer
The 300W aquarium heater is designed to suit aquariums ranging from 40 to 55 gallons. It has a length of 11 inches and a voltage of 110-120V, with a power cord that is 6ft long. It is important to choose the right wattage aquarium heater based on the size chart provided by the manufacturer. The heater features an area to adjust the temperature. Although it may not be entirely accurate, it can easily be turned and adjusted in small intervals to achieve the desired temperature. The heater is explosion-proof, thanks to the 2mm thickened quartz glass, and can be used in both fresh water and salt water aquariums. It is easy to hide in the tank, ensuring that it doesn't detract from the aesthetics of the aquarium. The precise temperature dial allows for complete control of the aquatic climate within a 1-degree difference, ranging from 68 to 89°F. The heater's sensitive and reliable thermostat maintains a uniform temperature, ensuring that the aquarium's inhabitants are comfortable. The heater also includes an automatic shut-off feature once the desired temperature is reached, making it a safe option for aquarium enthusiasts.
- Suitable for a range of aquarium sizes.
- Easy to adjust temperature.
- Explosion-proof and suitable for both fresh and salt water aquariums.
- Precise temperature control.
- Sensitive and reliable thermostat.
- Automatic shut-off feature ensures safety.
9. Neo-Therm Pro Heater: Total Aquatic Heat Control
The NEO-THERM PRO electronic thermostat offers a wide temperature range from 68°F to 94°F, with an accuracy of ±0.5°F. This ensures that your aquarium is always at the desired temperature. The AUTO SHUT-OFF circuitry feature prevents the heater from overheating and causing any damage. The SHATTERPROOF outer casing makes it durable and virtually indestructible, reducing the risk of any accidents. The LED DISPLAY allows you to monitor both the Set Tamp and Tank Temp simultaneously, providing convenience and ease of use. Additionally, this heater is FULLY submersible, making it perfect for use in aquariums.
- Wide temperature range from 68°F to 94°F
- Accuracy of ±0.5°F
- AUTO SHUT-OFF circuitry prevents overheating
- SHATTERPROOF outer casing makes it virtually indestructible
- LED DISPLAY for easy monitoring of Set Tamp and Tank Temp
- Fully submersible
10. Hygger Submersible Aquarium Heater – Smart Heating System!
The 800W aquarium heater is perfect for both saltwater and freshwater aquariums ranging from 80 to 220 gallons. The heater measures 10.8 inches in length and operates on a voltage of 110-120V. The power cord is 10.1 feet long, making it convenient to use. To avoid any inconvenience, please refer to the size chart before selecting the appropriate wattage.
The aquarium heater features a range of safety measures including overheating and out of water protection. If the water temperature exceeds 94°F or falls below the minimum water level, the heater will automatically cut off the power and stop heating. It will also display an error code and sound an alarm until the water temperature is below 94°F or until the heater is fully immersed in the water. With this feature, you can protect your fish from being overcooked.
The aquarium heater comes with a digital LED controller that has a temperature adjustable range of 59℉-93℉, with an accuracy of ±1°F. The controller can be mounted on the edge of the tank using the included bracket, allowing you to adjust the temperature without having to reach into the water. The LED controller displays the current water temperature, preset temperature, working power, and any warning signs of low/high temperature or auto shut off. The controller is user-friendly and easy to operate.
The aquarium heater is efficient and explosion-proof. It is made of explosion-proof quartz glass and high-temperature resistant nickel-chromium heating wire, which results in faster water heating, safety, and longer-lasting durability. The heater guard is made of high-quality PC plastic to protect your fish from burns.
The package includes one aquarium heater, one controller, three suction cups, one bracket, and one hook. The aquarium heater also comes with a 12-month warranty, ensuring you have a risk-free purchase.
- Suitable for both saltwater and freshwater aquariums ranging from 80 to 220 gallons
- Overheating and out of water protection for safety measures
- Digital LED controller for easy operation
- Efficient and explosion-proof
- Comes with complete accessories and 12-month warranty
Best Heater For Reef Tank FAQs
Are there any safety precautions I should take when using a heater in my reef tank?
Yes, there are certain safety precautions that you should consider when using a heater in your reef tank. First and foremost, it is important to choose a heater that is suitable for your tank size and wattage requirements. Overheating can cause harm to your fish and other aquatic creatures, and it may even lead to fires or explosions. Additionally, make sure that the heater is properly installed and secured in your tank, and that it is kept away from any flammable materials. You should also regularly check the heater for any signs of damage or malfunction, such as cracks, frayed cords, or abnormal behavior. Finally, consider installing a temperature controller or thermostat to ensure that the water temperature in your tank remains stable and within a safe range. By taking these precautions, you can help to protect your aquatic pets and maintain a safe and healthy environment in your reef tank.
Can I use multiple heaters in my reef tank for redundancy and stability?
Yes, you can use multiple heaters in your reef tank for redundancy and stability. It is always a good idea to have a backup plan in case one heater fails, especially during the colder months. You can use two or more heaters with lower wattage instead of one high wattage heater. This will help to prevent overheating and fluctuations in temperature.
It is important to ensure that the heaters are properly calibrated and that the temperature is monitored regularly to prevent any mishaps. You can also use a controller to regulate the temperature and ensure that the heaters are working properly.
Furthermore, it is important to choose heaters that are specifically designed for aquariums and are safe for use with marine life. Some heaters may contain materials that can be harmful to your fish and other marine life.
In summary, using multiple heaters in your reef tank can provide redundancy and stability, but it is important to ensure that they are properly calibrated, monitored, and safe for use with marine life.
How many watts of heating power do I need for my reef tank?
The wattage of heating power required for your reef tank depends on various factors such as the size of the tank, the temperature of the room where the tank is located, and the type of marine life you have in the tank. As a general rule, a heater that provides 3-5 watts of power per gallon of water in the tank is suitable for most reef tanks. For instance, if you have a 50-gallon tank, you should choose a heater that has a power output of at least 150-250 watts. However, if your room temperature is significantly lower than the required temperature for your reef tank, you may need a higher wattage heater to maintain the water temperature at the required level. It's also important to choose a high-quality heater with an adjustable thermostat to prevent overheating or underheating of your reef tank.
What is the best type of heater for a reef tank?
When it comes to choosing a heater for a reef tank, there are a few factors to consider. The best type of heater for a reef tank will depend on the size of the tank, the temperature requirements of the inhabitants, and the overall setup of the tank.
One option is a submersible heater, which is placed directly in the water and is great for smaller tanks. Another option is an in-line heater, which is installed in the plumbing of the tank and is ideal for larger tanks. In-line heaters are also more discreet and can help maintain a clean and clutter-free tank.
Regardless of the type of heater chosen, it's important to select one with accurate temperature control and safety features such as automatic shut-off in case of malfunction. It's also recommended to have a backup heater on hand in case of failure.
Overall, the best type of heater for a reef tank is one that is reliable, accurate, and appropriate for the specific needs of the tank and its inhabitants.
What temperature range should I maintain in my reef tank with a heater?
Maintaining a suitable temperature in your reef tank is crucial for the survival and health of the inhabitants. The ideal temperature range for a reef tank is between 75-80°F (24-27°C). However, it is important to note that different species of fish and coral may have specific temperature requirements.
To ensure the temperature remains consistent, a good quality heater should be used. It is recommended to invest in a heater with a thermostat to regulate the temperature accurately. Additionally, a thermometer should be placed in the tank to monitor the temperature regularly.
It is important to avoid sudden fluctuations in temperature, as this can cause stress to the inhabitants and lead to illness or death. Therefore, it is advised to place the heater in a location with good water circulation and to avoid placing it near the surface, where the temperature can fluctuate quickly.
In conclusion, maintaining a temperature range between 75-80°F (24-27°C) with a good quality heater and thermometer is essential for the health and survival of the inhabitants in your reef tank.