Overkill on heater or not

[Heabel7]

Usually I buy the largest heater for my 100gallon system. I always felt that it would be less work on a larger heating element to get to the desired temperature and therefore prolong the heating element and keep temps more stable. However, it seems that the mechanism for turning on and off the heater is actually the primary failing point. So now I’m thinking of getting a smaller heater (appropriately sized) on for longer periods of time will reduce the stress of the switch as it will take longer for the temperature to rise back to the desired.

So I’m looking at 300w heater that does up to 100gallons rather than a 600w heater. Although my mind still says bigger is better

THOUGHTS and recommendations please.

 

[WIReefer]

I personally like to run two underrated heaters incase of failure. If one sticks on my apex will kill the power and the other one will keep the temp close enough in range until I can change it out. Same goes the other way around.

 

[K7BMG]

I don't use self regulating heaters, simply for the problem your having, or trying to avoid.
Using a separate controller is the best way.

 

[Heabel7]

Even if not self regulated you run the risk of over switching your apex or controller. In fact An apex is not recommended for a heater as it is not rated for the crazy amount of on off cycles. Therefore, running a smaller heater would help with that but to what degree?