Heater rec's

[jessezm]

Looking for recommendations for a reliable heater(s) to place in my sump that won't break the bank. I have a nice 300w Eheim but it is too long and won't fit... The sump is an Eshopps 300 adv

Thanks!

 

[mcarroll]

How big a tank?

(Seems like your sump may be too small if that's the correct size heater for your tank.)

 

[phlibbyreefer]

I too am looking for a reliable heater recommendation. Setting up my new 125 gallon. Trigger systems 39 sump.

 

[jessezm]

Tank will eventually be a 150g + system. Sump is plenty big, just lots of compartments means I can’t get this super long heater all the way in the water. Sump is a eshopps 300 adv

 

[wiselyy73]

Is glasses or titanium better?

 

[jessezm]

Maybe I don't need such a big heater - I just got it for cheap so that's what I'm using at the moment. But it is in the frag tank since it wont fit in the sump, which is a situation I'm trying to correct

 

[mcarroll]

I'd select one of these if the size difference will make it work.


If it's still too big, then I'd really consider a different sump or a different strategy for heat.

The sump deserves reconsideration because it's either too small or too divided....this will ultimately cut into its flexibility and usefulness in the long run. (I like a totally open sump, myself, but that's me.)

The heat strategy deserves reconsideration because IMO you'll be better served by one heater in the display tank that is sized for the display tank and one heater in the sump that is the right size to heat the sump. One larger heater that has to heat the whole system remotely becomes a single point of failure and an extra risk if it does fail. Two smaller heaters are less risk if they do fail and give you a degree of redundancy vs failure in the first place. Smaller heaters are also easier to hide....so there's nothing wrong with three heaters if it makes them small enough to do that.

 

[pdxmonkeyboy]

Titanium heating element used with aftermarket temp controller.

Cheap on amazon

 

[Suspect]

Multiple smaller Eheim Jagers with a controller

 

[redfishbluefish]

I do like Eheim heaters....their glass is twice as thick....but as mentioned, they are long. But here's the thing, I always suggest two heaters over one. The reason is that if one fails (and it will) the other will at least try to keep up heat. For a 150 gallon system, I'd suggest two 150W, or better yet, two 200W heaters. With Eheim, they are 13.4 and 15.7 inches long, respectively.

Here's the other necessity....a controller of some kind. If you don't have an aquarium controller, consider a separate temperature controller, such as a Ranco or Inkbird. With either one, make sure you get a probe that is for saltwater.

 

[jessezm]

Thanks for all the good advice y’all. I think I will do at least two heaters, but want to avoid putting one in the display. I’m am considering plumbing in an additional sump for extra water volume and stability since I have the room for it, so that may be a more opportune location. I will have an Apex controller as soon as I can nab one for the right price...

 

[pdxmonkeyboy]

As someone said, an inkbird is a solid option for controlling the heaters.

Of course the apex is money very well spent as well. I would almost say mandatory if you have more than $1k in livestock.

Cheers

 

[rkpetersen]

Multiple smaller Eheim Jagers with a controller

Yes. I use two 150W EJs that are Apex programmed to alternate primary heating duty and assist each other when necessary. And a third in the same location of the sump, programmed as backup in case either of the other two fails. 3 150W EJs fit into a space that is too small for even 1 200W or larger EJ heater.