Some more specific questions (another xmas tank)

[Atrus]

Hey everybody, I'm still pretty new here, only posted a few times. I got a 29 gallon fish tank 'kit' for xmas. I kinda had my heart set on a 55gal, and was going to build it myself, not totally into the 'kit' deals, but seeing this thing in my room now, it was probably a better move, the 55 woulda been quite large. (im prolly just telling myself that, but w/e). Heres what was included:

Tank, hood, lamp, tank heater, thermometer, filter (hanging type), and some other misc crap. The whole kit is branded as "AQUA-TECH", but I'm pretty positive the filter is a Penguin, its branded as aqua-tech 20/40, so im not sure what that equates to, but it looks exactly like this unit (the non bio wheel): http://www.aquahobby.com/products/e_penguin.php

I want to keep 5 yellow labs in the tank (1m, 4f), so im guessing im going to need another filter. I've read good things about the emperor power filters, so maybe grab another comparable filter, and just run them side by side? Would this be overkill or not?

Also, the heater is a necessity I know, but this thing is hideous, can i hide it with a plant, or maybe find a nicer one, this one is clear and has all these metal bars and springs showing inside, eek. Whichever I go with, I'm guessing the best place to put it would be on the back of the tank in the center, but can i get away with putting it in the corner?

I'm so excited, its just killing me right now because I can't even start cycling it until I can get a stand!! I'm going to take pics along the entire project, and will post em' when I have the tank setup and cycling, w00t! :dance:

 

[rrkss]

I have one of those LCD stick on thermometers on some of my tanks and on others I have a stainless steel hang on the side thermometer. I leave it on the side of the tank near the filter so that it is out of sight but easy to view. Both thermometers have been accurate and work well for me.

 

[Atrus]

im sorry, i didn't meant to say the thermometer, i meant the heater :duh: i also have a thin stick on thermo, im not worried about that, its coo


oh yea, couldn't help myself, took a pic anyway, man i am excited,

Awaiting stand (gettin one tmrw) and cycle.

 

[Hannys_Papa]

I have my heater in a corner. I think a lot of people do - it should be ok.

 

[stingray4540]

my heaters in the corner and I planted some anacharis in front of it, just waiting for it to grow out to hide it even better. I also put the filter in the same corner so the intake tube is right next to the heater that way I don't have to hide 2 things.