Substrate heating?

[LadyLoach]

So I have a 60gal. tank that holds 5 2"-4" discus and a variety of smaller loaches. After having the tank nicely scaped for a while, I've noticed that the heater I bought...is a bit of an eye sore. I've tried hiding it behind rocks and plants, but I still see it. :/ Worse yet, the flow in the tank is relatively slow to suit the discus, so I worry that the tank is not being heated uniformly.

It looks like I may be moving the tank later this year, so I've been considering trying out substrate heating. That way, I'll be sure that the bottom of the tank stays warm for my loaches and all I'll see is an easily hidden cable. The problem is that I can't find much information about them. Does anyone have experience using them? What is the likelihood of problems arising? I know regular heaters go out, but will the same be said for a substrate heater?

Thoughts?

 

[thacarter546]

If your running a canister what about a hydor in line heater?

The only experience I have with them is a tank at a small local LFS and she doesnt like them well enough to recommend them. Theres three of them that have been on the shelf for 8 years.

 

[LadyLoach]

No canister filter, just a DIY sump built on the cheap side. I could put the heater in there. bit I worry that much of the heat would dissipate before it reaches the tank.

Do you know why they wouldn't recommend it? I know the basic problem of placing it in an established tank and there is also the questionable rumor that it is good for long-term planted tanks (doubtful), but I don't know of any major flaws that would make it a problem.

Perhaps a better question would be, "Why shouldn't I use a substrate heater?"

 

[thacarter546]

From what I gather its less efficient and she just wasnt a fan of the brands that offered it.

As for the hydor I suggested you actually cut the return hose and it connects in line, is relatively small and heats fairly evenly.

The via aqua titaniums are also nice.

I would suggest the marineland stealth pro, but There is a recall on them and now I have to call and have it replaced.

 

[LadyLoach]

I'll look into the in-line heater. I don't think we have any where I work, but I may be mistaken. I'd still like to learn more about the substrate heaters, but if it is less efficient...then it may just be a curiosity, rather than a solution.

 

[thacarter546]

Ive never tried it, The pet store near me didnt wanna sell it to me, and it was one of the most expensive heaters they had, so i didnt look into it further.