What size heater?

[abovethestorm]

I know this might sound pretty odd, but I am wondering what size heater to buy for my 150g? It has been set up for several months now all of which have been summer months. Here in texas all of my tanks stay at around 77 with no heater during the summer months. Right before summer hit two of my heaters on my smaller tanks crapped out on me so I just didnt run any heaters this summer in anything. I know not the best idea but it worked out. Well now I am working on buying a new set of heaters for everything and since I have never bought one for a large tank I am wondering what size to get for the 150g? I have heard that two smaller work better then one large one. I hope I didnt loose you in my rambling.

 

[lateinningmagic]

3-5 Watts per gallon is recommended. If you want to go with 2 heaters working together I would go with 375W heaters.

 

[BettaFishMommy]

definitely two heaters for that size tank, placed far enough apart that they heat the tank evenly. and yes, 3 to 5 watts per gallon is a good rule to follow.

 

[FluffynTex]

I live in Texas too and have had my tanks running for a couple years now and never have had heaters in them. I do keep my thermostat in the house set to 60 and that is the temp the tanks get but there have never been any ill effects to any of the fish, plants or red cherry shrimp.

 

[Gill Roy]

I agree 2 heaters are best.
I have 2 @350 watts in my 135 and all is just fine.

 

[abovethestorm]

I live in Texas too and have had my tanks running for a couple years now and never have had heaters in them. I do keep my thermostat in the house set to 60 and that is the temp the tanks get but there have never been any ill effects to any of the fish, plants or red cherry shrimp.

Whew! I am glad someone else does that. I was afraid of people jumping on me about it. The heaters really dont even turn on in the summer months though lol. In the winter though our house gets chilly. Plus I have a new fish in QT with ich so I need to buy some.

My heaters are gonna be in the sump on the 150 because I know my oscars would mess with them if they wernt.

 

[BettaFishMommy]

i don't think anyone would jump on you for not using a heater in texas in the summer. i'm way up in Edmonton in Canada and i've unplugged mine for the season. when they are on i have a 200 watt in one 55 gal, and a 150 in the other (which is open topped). neither tank has ever gotten too cool.