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When
it comes to water, some fish like it hot. Or, to
be more precise, some like it lukewarm. If you plan
to keep tropical species, you'll need to maintain
a temperature in the tank of about 78 degrees Fahrenheit--but
depending on the kind of fish you choose, the optimum
temperature may range somewhere between 74 and 84
degrees. The temperature in your tank can be easily
maintained with a good-quality, thermostatically
-controlled heater of the correct wattage.
Aquarium Heaters
The
most common aquarium heaters feature an electric
element enclosed in a water-tight glass tube. Should
the water drop below the desired temperature, the
thermostat will automatically turn on the heating
coil. You'll find models featuring an internal thermostat
contained within the glass tube, as well as those
with external thermostats that must be
attached to the outside of the tank. Combined units
are a lot easier to connect, but whichever type
you select, you'll need to make sure that the part
of the tube that contains the heating element stays
clear of gravel and says submerged; this allows
for optimum water circulation.
It's
essential that you purchase the right size heater
for your tank. The standard rule of thumb is 5 watts
of power per gallon of water, although some experts
contend that 3 watts per gallon is more than sufficient.
You may want to ask at your aquarium store for a
recommendation. Also note that in larger tanks of
more than three feet long, you'll get a more even
distribution of heat if you divide the work between
two separate units.
Fish Tank Heaters & Thermometers
An
inexpensive aquarium thermometer will allow you
to easily check that the water temperature remains
at a constant. There are many types available. Floating
thermometers attach to the inside of the tank with
suction pads, and there are also several models
that stick to the outside of the glass. If you get
the liquid crystal kind, be sure to install it on
the shady part
of the tank, as direct sunlight can affect the reading.
When
you first add the heater to your set-up, it is recommended
that you set the temperature at a low reading and
gradually work up to the required temperature; it
will help to use your thermometer as a guide. Once
the water's perfect, keep it there--and keep it
stable. Sudden changes in
temperature can severely stress your fish.
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