Where does the heater go?
• A heater sits in the back corner of the aquarium or in the sump.
• It must be accessible, though it is best if it is hidden from view e.g. in the sump or hidden by decorations.
• Always place heaters where you can see the operating light even if it is just a reflection of it.
• Use a heater cover if you have large fish or an anemone

How many heaters should you have?
Most people only have one high quality heater though two heaters are safer in case the one fails. It is always wise to have a spare.

What type of heaters is there?
• The standard glass tube heaters with an accurate built-in thermostat and cut off switch are the best.
• There are under gravel heaters that should only be used in freshwater plant tanks.
• There are some filters that come with a built-in heater.

Can you fix a heater?
• You shouldn’t attempt to fix your heater.
• If you are having problems, take it straight back to where you bought it from!
• Good heaters will fail on the off position, this saves your stick being roasted. This is an important consideration when buying a heater.

How do you stop the heater from burning inhabitants of the tank e.g. anemones, slugs, snails and starfish?
If the heater is in the tank it is advisable to get a heater cover. They are plastic with grooves to release the heat. They are available cheaply at any aquarium store.

Does the cap of the heater need to be out of the water?
• Always follow the instructions on the heater pack.
• A high quality heater should be safely fully submersible.
• If you allow just the top cap out of the water, the O ring may last longer.

by Paul Talbot